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September 19, 2012 Item 7.b Civic Engagement Task Force 4) Provide Public Participation Support, Training, and Resources 4.1 Policy Intent or Practice: The city should make available administrative support to foster more effective volunteerism and public participation. Rationale: Without administrative supports such as volunteer coordination and e administration (note - taking and meeting coordination), citizens' efforts are less efficient and satisfactory. Providing this minimal support would alleviate many frustrations and make citizen participation more effective, and would also provide opportunities for city staff and engaged citizens to dialogue and develop a shared perspective. We recommend the City: a) Create and promote more volunteer opportunities for citizens to actively contribute to the Roseville community. b) Create a new city executive position to support volunteerism and effective public engagement across all departments. This position would direct and coordinate volunteer opportunities and neighborhood and community relations; he /she could develop procedures and methods to provide clear and consistent two -way communication between city government and residents and businesses (improve communication and find opportunities for more effective civic engagement). We recommend that this position report to the City Manager and Council. c) Provide opportunities for city staff, council members, and commissioners to discuss key issues with citizens, including the city's progress on increasing civic engagement (such as occurred at the March 13, 2012 Task Force meeting with City Manager Bill Malinen and City Planner Bryan Lloyd). 4.2 Policy Intent or Practice: The city should invest in civic engagement training for public officials and city staff to foster a climate of public participation. Rationale: The more public officials understand the importance of civic engagement in achieving city goals and gain skills in public participation, the more effective their leadership will be. We recommend the City: a) Offer periodic (annual at a minimum) training to city officials and staff on civic engagement principles and best practices, including leadership and public participation. 4.3 Policy Intent or Practice: The city should develop educational and informational resources for citizens to learn how best to participate in civic issues. Rationale: The more people know about the process of city government (i.e., how to find the schedule of meetings, agendas, minutes; how and when to contact city staff, council September 12, 2012, Penultimate Draft 1.2 10