Abstract
Many local governments are ramping up capacity to address complex issues such as sustainability and resilience especially given the global context of climate change stressors and a public health pandemic. Oftentimes, these institutions lack practical knowledge on democratizing participation and ensuring representative community diversity to develop inclusive government plans. University of Florida (UF) used democratic principles gained from the Kettering Foundation to undertake and develop a long-term sustainability plan for a Florida community that conspires to be more conspicuous and inclusive representing multiple facets of the community’s history and desired future state. This 18-month project focuses on democracy and the role of citizens in an active democracy offering multiple pathways for active engagement that are deliberate and representative of the many voices in the community. The methodology utilizes concern collecting circles as the basis for development of a framework that is representative of suitable options that underpin the values of the residents of that community. In this research project, UF Extension agents have undertaken the tasks of convening and interviewing key stakeholders, conducting concern collecting circles and community forums, and identifying issues for the development of alternative options. This deliberate participatory approach aims to attract diverse sectors of the community and inform long-term, equitable, community-oriented solutions. The insights gained from this work will be invaluable in other projects and offers a blueprint for replicating similar projects in other communities.
Presenters
Ramona Madhosingh-HectorRegional Specialized Agent, Urban Sustainability, University of Florida/IFAS Extension, Florida, United States Linda Seals
Regional Specialized Agent, University of Florida/IFAS Extension, Florida, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
Community Diversity and Governance
KEYWORDS
Sustainability, Values, Democratic, Community, Collaboration, Partnership
