Agenda - 01-31-2014 - 1 - Laserfiche WebLink

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85 methods. A possible name for this program could be "Red Wing University." • Citizen academies are typically set up via weekly evening meetings over a few months. Each gathering covers a different department, and citizens get to speak with department heads and staff members. These academies are often where future commission and council members cut their teeth in city government (preferable to "fighting city hall" and deciding to run for office). • TOOL #4: ENSURE COMMUNITY EVENTS ARE PUBLICIZED. Adequately promote city events in a variety of ways to boost turnout and encourage resident involvement. This would include the newsletter, press releases to local media, cable television, web site, churches, and posting flyers in key, high-traffic community locations. • TOOL #5: FIND WAYS TO EMPOWER RESIDENTS WITH LIMITED ENGLISH LANGUAGE ABILITY. The city must find a way to reach out and communicate with residents who have limited English-language skills. However, some communities have found such materials to be ineffective and have relied on other communications methods that take cultural preferences into consideration. • TOOL #6: CITY COUNCIL SHOULD MEET WITH BOARD AND COMMISSION MEMBERS ANNUALLY. This was a specific request from the board and commission member focus group. It's a good way to keep in touch with citizens who are involved in city government and already operating in an advisory role to the council. • TOOL #7: USE METHODS SUCH AS A SPEAKER'S BUREAU AND COMMUNITY EVENTS TO SPREAD CITY MESSAGES A speaker's bureau is often an effective method for communicating messages in a professional and organized manner. The city could compile a list of city staff members who are available as speakers for community and school groups, along with topics they can discuss. In addition, the city should continue to support events that foster a sense of community in Red Wing by facilitating formation of block clubs for events such as National Night Out, providing block party kits to residents who wish to organize neighborhood events, and arranging visits by police and fire personnel (along with other city departments), to block parties and neighborhood events. The city should also participate in events such as River City Days, Memorial Day services, and the Holiday Stroll. • TOOL #8: USE COLLATERAL MATERIALS Ongoing use of the annual Resident Guide, brochures, flyers and direct mail pieces should be encouraged.