Open communication with your district’s residents is key to its success

One of your roles as a special service district is to support the people that live within the boundaries. Most of the time your job is probably fairly easy and the day-to-day tasks get accomplished without much fanfare. But some days, it might feel like you have a target on your back and everyone is upset.

Think about the last time you had a bad experience. Maybe something you purchased broke when you got home and you are upset about it. Or your TV or internet is down and you really need to get online. Whatever the problem is, you need it fixed immediately. And that feeling of urgency can bring strong emotions to the surface.

People in your district feel the same way at times. They have a problem that they need fixed immediately. Dealing with people when they are upset is challenging. But for the most part, people want the opportunity to be heard and have their issue resolved.

Our government was founded on the idea that citizens play an active role in the policies and procedures. Special service districts follow the same general guidelines. Involving the public can mean different things and how they participate varies. But one thing that is for sure, the people in your district expect the opportunity to share their views, especially when it comes to important public decisions.

In order for your district to be successful at serving the people within its boundaries, open communication is a must. This could happen at a public hearing, through a comment section on a blog or forum, letters or emails, and phone calls. Making your district accessible to its residents helps your district be more transparent.

What have you found to be the best way to communicate with your district’s residents?