Far too often public participation by civic leaders is viewed as largly a passive exercise.  Legal notices of meetings are posted -- and I'm sure that everyone you know reads legal notices religiously because of their scintillating content.  Some organizations or departments go the extra mile and issue news releases about upcoming public meetings, hearings and events.  Problem is, most reporters and editors view these announcements as real snoozers unless you're smart and creative enough to find the newsworthy gem that convinces them to give you more than cursory ink. Of course, if the issue is potentially controversial they'll cover the controversy but probably avoid the core of the issue which is frequently more complicated than they like to deal with.  The point is that passive engagement doesn't engage very effectively which, I guess, is ok if all you're after is to check the box and say you've done it.  But if you truly want the people that you serve to participate in decisions, asking them to help you works remarkably well.      

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