10.19.22 OUTBoard Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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D. Meetings and Outreach There is no one-size-fits-all approach to public involvement. A variety of comprehensive and targeted public participation methods will be used to facilitate meaningful public involvement. Methods for engaging stakeholders and target audiences, including traditionally underserved and excluded populations (i.e., minorities, youth, low-income, the disabled, etc.) will include the following: Public Relations and Outreach Public relations and outreach (PRO) strategies aim to conduct well-planned, inclusive and meaningful public participation events that foster good relations and mutual trust through shared decision-making with the communities we serve. • We will seek out and facilitate the involvement of those potentially affected. • Public events will aim to be collaborative, fun, and educational for all, rather than confrontational and prescriptive. • Media plans will typically involve multiple channels of communication like mailings, radio, TV, and newspaper ads. • Abstract objectives will be avoided in meeting announcements. Specific "attention-grabbing" reasons to attend will be used, such as "Help us figure out how to relieve congestion on [corridor name]" or "How much should it cost to ride the bus? Let us know on [date]." • Efforts will be made to show how the input of participants can, or did, influence final decisions. • We will do our best to form decision-making committees that look like and relate to the populations we serve. • We will seek out and identify community contacts and partner with local community- and faith-based organizations that can represent, and help us disseminate information to, target constituencies. • Demographic data will be requested during public meetings, surveys, and from community contacts and committee members. Public Meetings "Public meeting" refers to any meeting open to the public, such as hearings, charrettes, open house and board meetings. • Public meetings will be conducted at times, locations, and facilities that are convenient and accessible. • Meeting materials will be available in a variety of predetermined formats to serve diverse audiences. • An assortment of advertising means may be employed to inform the community of public meetings. • Assistance to persons with disabilities or limited English proficiency will be provided, as required. Small Group Meetings A small group meeting is a targeted measure where a meeting is held with a specific group, usually at their request or consent. These are often closed meetings, as they will typically occur on private property at the owner's request. • If it is determined that a targeted group has not been afforded adequate opportunities to participate, the group will be contacted to inquire about possible participation methods, including a group meeting with them individually. • Unless unusual circumstances or safety concerns exist, hold the meeting at a location of the target group's choosing. • Share facilitation duties or relinquish them to members of the target group. 27