[Mpls] 'Citizen Participation' still a myth; 'Activist Participation' not...

[Nikkicarlson001 at aol.com]

Is the idea of the original post to take away participation from those who 
show up and concentrate decision-making elsewhere?

This seems like it doesn't address the core problem he's pointed out, which 
is we need MORE citizen participation in order to improve our neighborhoods. 
How does taking the opportunity away from those who choose to be actively 
involved at the neighborhood level increase participation?

There is not a "quick fix" to shifting away from apathy and disconnected 
neighbors... we need a long-term strategy that will continue to bring MORE 
participation in at the neighborhood level.  As the process continues to become 
better known, even through criticisms such as those below, more people will learn 
that YES, I CAN have a significant say in what happens in MY neighborhood... 
that is a VERY GOOD direction to take. I disagree with the suggestion that 
somehow handing off this decision-making to elected officials makes the process 
better. Let the neighbors have a say... that will lead to increased neighborhood 
involvement over the long-term.

Nikki Carlson
Linden Hills