Public Engagement

This course will equip you with the tools to engage effectively, navigate challenges, and integrate public input into council decision-making. Exploring the value of engagement, your role as an elected official and how to manage public expectations, you’ll gain practical skills to foster transparency, accountability and stronger connections with your community.

Course Outline

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Introduction to Public Engagement

 

  • The purpose and importance of public engagement
  • The role of council in public engagement
  • Benefits and Challenges of engaging with the public 
  • Differentiating between communication and engagement
  • Identifying risks and challenges that impact engagement success 

  

Public Engagement Framework 

 

  • Understanding public engagement as a system 
  • Key principles and frameworks for municipal engagement
  • Statutory requirements for public participation 
  • The Outer Ring of Engagement: Public notification bylaws, administrative procedures, and engagement policies 
  • The spectrum of engagement and levels of decision-making 

Engagement with Intent

 

  • The Inner Rings of Engagement: Strategic engagement planning
  • How public input informs municipal decision-making
  • Public satisfaction surveys: Purpose, methodology, and interpretation
  • Balancing engagement with council’s decision-making authority 

 

 

 

 

Engagement Roles & Responsibilities 

 

  • The Bullseye of Engagement: Defining engagement priorities
  • Councils’ role in leading and overseeing engagement processes
  • Responsibilities of administration and staff in engagement processes
  • Effective collaboration between council, administration, and the public

 

 

 

 

Understanding Engagement Results 

 

  • Identifying and understanding community needs 
  • Why demographics matter in public engagement
  • Strategies for engaging diverse groups
  • Ensuring accessibility and equity in public participation
  • Evaluating public engagement efforts

 

Engaging Through Controversy

 

  • Navigating contentious issues and public backlash
  • Managing misinformation and setting realistic public expectations
  • Conflict resolution strategies in engagement processes

 

 

 
Course Details