Reporting on the effectiveness of consultations, initiative

Zoning projects, changes to the school network and many projects affecting the environment involve consulting residents. Many residents seize this opportunity, familiarise themselves with the material and often present their opinions in great detail. However, it has now become more common for residents’ views, opinions and arguments to be disregarded, with plans proceeding as originally envisaged. This is not democratic, participatory or attentive.

I propose that a report on the impact of consultation and participation be drawn up. This report would include a record of each consultation, a summary of the amount of feedback received from residents, and an Excel table showing, on a selected scale (e.g. 1-5), first of all, what changes residents want and how their opinions have had an impact: not at all, a little, somewhat, quite a lot, a lot. In other words, a number is recorded for each opinion, and a table of the results is presented. It should also be stated how many opinions oppose the measure in question and to what extent.

A similar report should also be prepared for initiatives. These reports can be presented as a separate annual report. There is no point in talking about participation and consultation if they have no impact. This alienates residents from municipal decision-making and politics and creates a negative attitude towards the municipality. On the other hand, taking residents’ views into account creates a positive image of the municipality.

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