As stated previously, I believe that the only authentic way to improve local governance on a long-term basis is to 'increase the relationship of engagement between the residents and their Councillors'.
The direction of the engagement is paramount. It has to come from the citizenry to be authentic and longstanding. The primary impetus has to come from us.
However, I also believe that Councillors must do what they can do to help build this new relationship of engagement. Here's my fifth suggestion towards this end.
A Councillor should utilize 'electronic town hall meetings'.
Though the technology is still evolving, it's still possible to hold an online 'meeting' in which people are able to 'discuss' issues. It could be an 'Internet coverage' version of a live, bricks-and-mortar event, it could be one where the Councillor is essentially broadcasting in a video-chat mode and people can ask questions by way of text, it could be something akin to the traditional IRC chat-room mode, webinars, net-conferencing...
I believe that options via broadband provide superb opportunities to connect with a higher degree of convenience for all concerned, and just about every innovation should be considered. Connection and dialogue it the goal, after all.
A Councillor should utilize 'electronic town hall meetings'.
Though the technology is still evolving, it's still possible to hold an online 'meeting' in which people are able to 'discuss' issues. It could be an 'Internet coverage' version of a live, bricks-and-mortar event, it could be one where the Councillor is essentially broadcasting in a video-chat mode and people can ask questions by way of text, it could be something akin to the traditional IRC chat-room mode, webinars, net-conferencing...
I believe that options via broadband provide superb opportunities to connect with a higher degree of convenience for all concerned, and just about every innovation should be considered. Connection and dialogue it the goal, after all.
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I'm always interested in feedback, differing opinions, even contrarian blasts...as long as they're delivered with decorum...with panache and flair always helping.