One of the basic tenets of the Public Participation Principles is that of inclusion and transparency, of equal access to information. Neighborhoods have worked diligently to insert themselves in the decision-making process (in decisions that affect their neighborhoods and communities) have benefitted from these ideals.
The act of registering neighborhood associations on the Neighborhood and Housing Services Department bestows the associations the privilege of receiving zoning changes and other notifications that are within their boundaries. But other organizations or coalitions who have fulfill the basic requirements and who have an interest in zoning or development issues do not receive these notifications by CoSA.
Privileging one type of organization over another works against the spirit of the Public Participation Principles and are a hindrance to meaningful public engagement. CoSA should recognize and send notices to any community and/or advocacy organization or coalition that meets the standards and makes a request upon registration. Broader communication and inclusion of citizen input is the center of the Public Participation Principles. The inclusion of registered organizations and coalitions in the notification process fulfills the following specific principles:
INCLUSIVE – Engage a broad range of stakeholders, with particular emphasis on those who do not normally take part in City public participation process; make every effort to ensure that stakeholder groups do not feel left out of the process.
CONVENIENT – Make it as easy as possible to engage with the City; provide multiple opportunities for the public to provide input; when possible, meet people where they are instead of only requiring them to show up at a public meeting; utilize the power of digital communications while being mindful of technology gaps.
RESPECTFUL – Consider all input received, including differing viewpoints, while balancing the interests of all stakeholders.
CoSA needs to create a new outreach category to increase access to information to increase engagement.
Thank You T1NC for sharing you Policy information and post regarding the necessary and obvious issues we as neighborhoods have been dealing with.
The forums and workshops, which Teir1 has initiated, has identified many obstacles. I’m encouraged, with this post, where readers will understand the problems city departments have created for those “concerned” individuals. Notification for all those affected by such development and not just the 200 ft radius nor specific organizations, should be able to participate with discussions.
I applaud T1NC efforts and I’m so encouraged that our neighbors are becoming involved with our community efforts.
I’ve posted this a discussion and in response to some issues that are coming up. This post is not necessarily a reflection of T1NC. The Steering Committee is discussing it and the conversation here is part of that.
What are some examples of entities that should be added to the notifications?
Gene Marck
210.273.9201
I would think coalitions would benefit such as NNOD or WNAC. I can see a future of coalitions based on sub-area planning areas that might want notifications, for example the Near North Community Planning area which would include my neighborhood.