Editorial
Early on in Douglas Adams’ book The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, protagonist Arthur Dent is informed by the local official overseeing the imminent destruction of Dent’s home — to make way for a new freeway bypass — that he was “quite entitled to make any suggestions or protests at the appropriate time,” and that “the plans have been available in the local planning office for the last nine months.”
I am often reminded of the scene as I follow the various civic projects, strategies and proposals that necessitate public review and comment. In the past, I have seen local governmental entities pass and fail the test of “community engagement” — at times taking pains to solicit and address citizens’ input, while at other times recasting Adams’ comedy of errors.
The current public debate over the proposal to construct a “missing link” to complete the Grand Rounds Scenic Byway has set off a firestorm of opposition from residents. Early plans show the possibility for removing homes, businesses, or even multiple square blocks of student family housing for a project that is as yet undefined and unfunded.
While residents’ incredulity and anger are understandable, the Park Board deserves credit for bringing the proposal to the people early in the process. A citizen advisory committee, public meetings and the vehement neighborhood response will, we hope, guide planners towards the best route.
I have seen the alternative model from this same board: Park Board planners unveil a polished, funded project to residents who don’t want the project at all. The school district and School Board mishandled this process this spring with the decision to close Tuttle School, but they have gone above and beyond — through the work of consultants McKinsey and Co. — to engage parents, teachers and administrators in considering a tectonic shift in strategy.
So kudos to these civic trustees for putting their plans — and even their most harebrained ideas — to a public forum early on. It’s the folks with the most vehement criticism that often have the most stake in and knowledge of these issues.
But a reminder to those stakeholders, as well: at some point, community engagement has to end so that plans can be acted upon.
While, as School Board consultants reminded us in their strategic planning presentation, you can’t please everyone, the more people you talk to, the more chance you have to make them happy.
last revised: December 17, 2007