Tri-City Voice was founded on the belief that meaningful stewardship and, when necessary, change in our society begins at the local level. Citizen engagement depends not only on willingness and readiness to spend time and resources to protect and advocate, but also a fundamental understanding of our system of government… how and why resident participation is not only desirable, but critical to a goal of an effective, fair and just society.
In light of this elemental building block of democracy, this newspaper will soon be launching a series of articles to describe, explain and guide our residents toward participation on boards, committees or commissions.
Active and extensive citizen involvement will broaden sources of information and the scope of discussions available to these bodies. Often, serious and far-reaching decisions are initially discussed and debated by advisory bodies prior to recommendations leading to final decisions. If concerned residents enter the process at that level, rather than deferring comments until an ultimate vote, they will have greater impact on proposals submitted for final approval.
It is our hope that advisory groups and local government will benefit from extensive and thorough dialogue with a broad spectrum of residents. Through input and informed dialogue at meetings of an advisory body, either as appointed members or interested residents and visitors, anxiety, consternation and antagonistic behavior can be avoided as well as the time necessary to air grievances – often justified – to include necessary modifications.
We have endured an unsettling period of distrust, suspicion and even violence to resolve political differences. This is a destructive and malignant approach toward democratic institutions that rely on mutual respect and concurrence with basic ideals. How to achieve them can be a point of discussion, but agreement on basic tenets is essential for a successful societal pact between governors and the governed.
It is unrealistic to assume that all facets of government will attract the interest all impacted. Time and effort, by necessity, is consumed by procedural details. While essential, this minutia can even strain the patience of a biblical Job. However, details are necessary to build a solid foundation for action and may offer clues – signals – to others of substantial and impending decisions. It is at this point that advice and counsel without rancor can change the course of conversation and presentation. Here is where the “rubber meets the road.”
Many unfamiliar with governmental process may believe there is a strict formula that dictates who may or may not serve in advisory bodies. This may be the case in some instances, but in many others, the basic requirement is an interest and willingness to share personal and professional time, energy and wisdom with others who have similar interests. A first step for those who have an interest in a particular advisory group is to simply visit a meeting (in person or virtual) and assess whether you would be an asset to it. There is little mystery to this. As a visitor becoming familiar with the procedures and personalities involved, you will have an opportunity to interact with members and discover whether further participation fits with your passions, temperament and availability. It can also provide a true glimpse into the structure of a democratic system that relies on citizen contributions to operate successfully.
If you have complaints about how government works for you, friends and family, spending time with a committee, board or commission can be a doorway to a solution.
“The pessimist complains about the wind. The optimist expects it to change. The realist adjusts the sail.”
– William Arthur Ward