What do you think of "Community Forums"?

In My Humble Opinion
1

A “Community Forum” (that’s what I call them) is a meeting where politicians or leaders of some group will hold this public meeting where they ask citizens to come and share their views on issues. People are usually allowed say 2-3 minutes to speak or ask questions but in the case of a large crowd, they give out this by a lottery or first come, first served. Also often seating is limited so they only allow say 100 of the first people to show up inside.

Now some have been good. The leaders really got an earful, minds were changed, and action was taken.

Other meetings? Not so well. In one meeting I was at members of one group got there early and took all the seats so they could dominate the discussion.

Sometimes people will not respect the rules of etiquette and will talk over or shout down persons who whom they disagree with.

At most meetings its the most organized group that is the most in attendance. So that makes it look like one viewpoint is more represented when it really isnt. Sometimes the speakers are actually in league with certain groups so they can pack the audience with supporters.

At another meeting I was at it was myself and one other parent there while the rest of the meeting place was elderly supporters, who had more available time for such meetings, of the other side which made it look like the community was on their side.

So what do you all think?

2

They’re just one of a number of ways that citizens can inform their leaders of their views. And all the ways are fraught with problems. Like, whenever governmental bodies are considering changing regulations/laws, they often notify the public and solicit written comments during a set period of time (30- or 60-days are typical). But it’s not like they advertise this on TV. Usually the notice is only published in some local government register or website. Maybe it’s published in the backpages of the local rag, but this is no longer the norm. In other words, you’ve got to be paying close attention. You’ve got to be the type who knows where to find this information.

So what happens is governmental bodies usually only get comments from the type of individuals and groups who can afford to organize and take up all the seats at public meetings. Because these are the people who are really paying attention. It is unfortunate when they aren’t the folks who have the most to lose by whatever policy is being discussed.

If the people running these bodies are conscientious, they will do outreach in the community to increase awareness and won’t just do the bare minimum.

3

I think that this looks more like a poll than a debate and I am moving it to the IMHO forum.

4

If they’ll help bring back Community, I’m in favour. Otherwise, meh.