The Institute for Local Government (ILG) has worked hard over the years to help local agencies increase the level of public engagement in their communities. Authentic public engagement has the potential to help positively transform communities. Engaging the public early in the decision-making process can help agencies avoid costly pitfalls and mistakes. Constituents who have helped shape a proposed policy, project or program typically have a better understanding of the issues at hand and the reasoning behind the final decision. Simply put – participation helps generate ownership.

Local governments use a wide variety of technology options in their efforts to connect with their communities. While some technology may be costly, many options are reasonably priced and the range of available choices is broad enough to be feasible for any local government, from large to small.