We’ve been asking how we can make it easier for Calgarians to provide input into City decisions. Check out the summary of 
what we’ve heard from Calgarians related to this initiative.
Citizen Engagement Results
With the help of Calgarians from many different facets, we are keen to report the
findings from the online survey we conducted in the fall of 2012. We would like to thank all who took the time to fill out the survey and want to let you know that we are listening, learning and utilizing the feedback that has been provided by applying it to the current state of the engagement review.
Just to recap, the engagement review began in early 2012, where best practices in engagement from around the world have been reviewed and various internal and external stakeholders including City Council, Administration and citizens have been engaged. Feedback collected from citizens and other key stakeholders related to their engagement experiences has helped The City gain an understanding of what is working and what is not. The work that has been done to date on the engagement review has helped build the foundation for where we are today.
Further engagement in 2013 is now in full swing as the engagement review team forges ahead with the second phase of the project. Next steps include City Administration providing input into the internal-facing components such as engagement tools and training, and pursuing plans for discussions with citizens and Administration to delve into greater detail about how to support the development and implementation of the improvements.
The City will continue to look for recommendations from the public on how we can make it easier for Calgarians to have conversations with The City and provide input into City decisions.
Priorities & Finance Committee Meeting - May 14th
Graphic recorder/artist Sam Hester was on hand capturing the conversation at the May 14th Priorities and Finance Committee meeting. This was a success for the project team as never before had a graphic recorder be used for a committee meeting at the City. Sam’s medium of graphic recording proved to be impressive as it showcased an alternative and unique tool that can be used to capture dialogue and conduct engagement.
"The Writing's on the Wall": A public engagement event
The Public Building's third floor and the Engagement Resource Unit opened its doors to Calgarians on Wednesday, March 27th, 2013, to host an interactive evening about citizen engagement at The City.
What it’s all about
Continue the conversation is about discussing how we can make it easier for Calgarians and The City to talk about important issues together.
It’s about getting input, feedback and ideas throughout The City’s decision-making process so it can be used to help make the best decisions possible.
We know decisions are improved by getting input from a wide range of perspectives and the best way to do that is through purposeful two-way dialogue.
The City formally recognized the value and importance of public input in City decision-making in 2003 by approving an engagement policy.
Today, we’re taking a fresh look at how to improve the way citizens and The City can work together. We’ve heard some ideas about what’s working and what’s not - now we want further input and ideas on how we can improve.
Onward/ Sustainability Direction: By 2020, The City’s programs and services will reflect the voice of citizens, and citizens can play active roles in their communities and The City’s processes.
