Review Framework for a Future Citizen Engagement Process Related to the Environmental Protection/Resource Management Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan

The purpose of this case is to review the proposed framework for a future public meeting to solicit public input on the Environmental Protection/Resource Management Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan.  Attached to this case is the general framework that will be used for updating individual chapters of the Comprehensive Plan, including the natural resources chapter.  This is a three (3) step process that includes:

1. Scoping Meeting - Ask the community a question and identify prioritized issues and opportunities.
2. Develop Alternatives and Solutions - these are to be developed collaboratively.
3. Agree on Preferred Alternatives and Solutions - develop consensus around results.

The City has for several years now been utilizing a collaborative approach that allows the public to identify what the issues are related to a particular topic and then, based on that input, develop alternatives and possible solutions for public consideration.  This approach has proven to be very successful and engages the public more so than if the City were to lead with alternatives and solutions.

As part of this case, Staff is seeking input from the Board on an appropriate question to use to 'kick off' this public meeting.  Examples of such questions include: 'You are invited to participate in reviewing what, if any, updates to the Environmental Protection/Resource Management Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan are needed' or 'Are natural resources an important asset in the community and should there be provisions to protect them?'.

A second component of a successful collaborative session is a resource bank or library or materials for the public to have access to for background information.  Staff would plan to have available copies of the Environmental Protection/Resource Management Chapter of the Comprehensive Plan chapter, The Natural Resources Inventory (NRI), the Wetland Functions and Values report, and applicable sections of City Code (Tree Preservation, Topsoil requirement, etc).  Staff would appreciate feedback from the Board on any other resources that would be beneficial to have on hand for the public input meeting. 

Staff will have to coordinate the timing for this public, collaborative session and would advertise the meeting through the newsletter, website, and likely QCTV.  Thus, the meeting likely would not be scheduled until at the earliest, this fall.
 

This case is being handled as part of Staff's regular duties.

Outcomes of this meeting should include direction to Staff on the following:

• What should the question for the public be?
• What additional resources would the Board like to see available for the public meeting?