The NCS Sample Timelime 2012...

Asking for a critique from your constituents is one thing. Promising to use the results as a guide to governing is another.

Local government managers need to demonstrate the enthusiasm and, yes, feel the fear that inspires small business owners and CEOs of big corporations to get it right and to get it right now. Citizen surveys help local government managers get it right.

Portland officials believe that this approach not only produced a more effective economic development plan for a lower cost, but also improved citizen engagement.

This survey is the 5th in an annual series that began in 2004.

The Alliance’s Connected Communities white paper identifies steps local governments can take to achieve a higher level of citizen engagement.