‘This something that could work’: can civic assemblies put the people back into politics?
Summary
Civic assemblies are groups of randomly chosen local residents who discuss and make suggestions on government issues. In Los Angeles and other U.S. cities, these assemblies are being used to involve residents more directly in local politics and help shape policies.Key Facts
- Hunter Futo, a Los Angeles software engineer, became actively involved in local governance after being selected for a civic assembly.
- The LA civic assembly met for about 30 hours and made nine recommendations, including increasing city council seats and holding regular assemblies.
- The recommendations were mostly approved by a reform commission and may go to the city council and public ballot in November.
- Civic assemblies involve randomly selected citizens who receive pay and meet to learn from experts and discuss local issues.
- Similar assemblies have taken place in cities like Lexington, Kentucky, and Raleigh, North Carolina, addressing local concerns like council transparency and land use.
- Connecticut is organizing the first state-wide civic assembly to look at property tax issues.
- These assemblies help elected officials understand public views better and give citizens a chance to participate directly.
- The Foundation for Innovation in Democracy works to train and promote civic assemblies in North America and connects officials with successful models in Europe.
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