As another city council election cycle passes, we see yet another low voter turnout as compared to a presidential election year. Voter apathy may be at an all-time high. Whatever the reasons, I think we can all agree that more citizen involvement in our city government would greatly benefit our city departments, planning and parks commissions, but mostly the policymakers on city councils.
The city of Battle Ground must find common-sense ways to reach out and present those opportunities to our citizens. Many in our city are unaware of opportunities to serve our city on boards and commissions. Most of our citizens are not aware that all of these meetings are open to the public. I challenge the city to offer quarterly town hall-style meetings where citizens can ask questions and be heard.
Furthermore, Battle Ground City Council should sponsor a “Get Involved” open house at City Hall where citizens can attend and learn about how our city government works and ways to get involved.
With a newly elected city council taking shape in Battle Ground, I challenge our city leaders to do more to engage their constituents.
