Prizes for Public Participation

Looking to spur civic engagement, officials in Boulder, Colorado are experimenting with unusual incentives for attendees of city-sponsored meetings.

1 minute read

October 25, 2010, 6:00 AM PDT

By Lynn Vande Stouwe

Boulder officials hope that by raffling off items purchased by the city or donated by local businesses, such as books and coupons, and incorporating kid-friendly activities like pumpkin painting, they can lure more residents to an upcoming series called Boulder Matters. The meetings will focus on major current city issues, including alternative energy provision, wildlife conservation and waste reduction programs.

The city is actually hoping to save money in the process, writes Heath Urie:

"Officials say the forum should save the city money, too. The Boulder Matters series is expected to cost about $4,800. The cost of holding separate, traditional meetings for each topic would have been about $6,500."

FULL STORY: Trying to entice public to meetings, Boulder offers prizes

Sunday, October 17, 2010 in Daily Camera

Government / Politics Colorado Public Participation Boulder Public Meetings

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