MANAGERS CORNER
COVID HAS CHANGED PUBLIC ENGAGEMENT AND CREATED NEW OPPORTUNITIES FOR EQUITY & ACCESS By Hanna Stelmakhovych, Program Manager, Institute for Local Government
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he world of public engagement has shifted dramatically since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Special districts adjusted their approach and embraced virtual participation and digital engagement. As a result, many local governments saw an increase in participation in public meetings and online engagement activities. Virtual options allowed more residents and stakeholders to participate in meetings and workshops. Once community members were comfortable with the emerging technology, they noticed and appreciated the logistical benefits of signing on to virtual events. In many cases the demographics of public meeting participation shifted because of the ability for working parents, students and others to participate from the location of their choice,
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signaling an ongoing public commitment to staying involved when the environment is flexible. Many special districts also experienced cost savings because of decreases in the travel and out of pocket costs typically associated with in-person events. Increased participation, decreased cost and reduced travel time are just some of the benefits of online engagement. As California begins to reopen, special districts have an opportunity to build on this virtual engagement momentum by offering a mix of online and in-person engagement activities that are aligned with needs of the demographics of their community. Below are some tips for achieving the right balance.
California Special Districts • July-August 2021
