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What Does It Mean to Encourage Community and Stakeholder Collaboration in Development Decisions?

Reasonable people disagree on transportation and land planning issues. Many libertarians disavow planning altogether. Many conservatives see nothing unfair or unwise about the current market. Many liberals see moral corruption in the current treatment of the environment and natural resources. Most of us are simply disinterested in these matters. Whatever the case, a full airing of community views should be encouraged. No one should be afraid of debate and discussion. Business groups, civic organizations, private citizens, academic institutions should work together to decide how they want their cities and towns to be.

What to Do with Minneapolis Riverfront?
Citizens Get Involved in Brainstorming.

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What Encouraging Community and Stakeholder Collaboration Is NOT

• Closed-door decision making

Benefits of Encouraging Community and
Stakeholder Collaboration

• Encourages conversation among residents, businesses and government
• Builds community awareness and guardianship around their common future
• Promotes transparency

Examples

• Many cities and towns go to great lengths to hold public meetings to discuss planning and development issues. The Central Corridor light rail project, for example, has been the subject of scores of public meetings over the years.

Challenges to Encouraging Community and Stakeholder Collaboration in Development Decisions

• Disengagement in public issues
• Cynicism about government
• Lack of attention by the news media
• Polarization in politics