Localities face differing requirements from state to state when it comes to using social media. Are you ready for live video?
Public records requirements, privacy and liability issues, and possibly record retention requirements can make the use of social networking sites a little difficult for a locality—toss in the potential for a dialogue that might involve elected officials or postings from elected officials and it's obvious that there have to be policies and procedures in place to avoid running afoul of open meetings and public document requirements.
Citizen engagement, however, has become increasingly important as localities strive for transparency and input. Leveraged by the smartphone, we have a perfect venue for reaching out and connecting. How then does one launch into the use of social networking, YouTube channels, LinkedIn sites, Twitter, and video streaming (Periscope anyone?) without bumping into the regulations above (which were probably created before social networking was even an idea)?
The advent of streaming, live video as a tool for connecting with our citizens is very powerful—but don't kid yourself—without some sort of legislative relief or adjustments, local policies, and procedures will need to be established to stay compliant with state requirements.
FULL STORY: Facebook Launches Live Video Feature: What Does it Mean for Government?
What the Academic Literature Says About Civic Engagement
A literature review notes three big themes and challenges to emerge from a year's worth of intellectual investigation of civic engagement.
Uncertain Future of Portland’s Neighborhood Associations Causing Controversy
A proposal to dissolve the groups has led to a debate about their purpose and who really benefits from them.
The Good and the Bad of Planning Websites
Students review municipal planning department websites in cities with more than 50,000 people to identify strengths and weaknesses. This post shares examples of the use of websites for information sharing and engagement.
Planetizen Federal Action Tracker
A weekly monitor of how Trump’s orders and actions are impacting planners and planning in America.
San Francisco's School District Spent $105M To Build Affordable Housing for Teachers — And That's Just the Beginning
SFUSD joins a growing list of school districts using their land holdings to address housing affordability challenges faced by their own employees.
The Tiny, Adorable $7,000 Car Turning Japan Onto EVs
The single seat Mibot charges from a regular plug as quickly as an iPad, and is about half the price of an average EV.
Seattle's Plan for Adopting Driverless Cars
Equity, safety, accessibility and affordability are front of mind as the city prepares for robotaxis and other autonomous vehicles.
As Trump Phases Out FEMA, Is It Time to Flee the Floodplains?
With less federal funding available for disaster relief efforts, the need to relocate at-risk communities is more urgent than ever.
With Protected Lanes, 460% More People Commute by Bike
For those needing more ammo, more data proving what we already knew is here.
Urban Design for Planners 1: Software Tools
This six-course series explores essential urban design concepts using open source software and equips planners with the tools they need to participate fully in the urban design process.
Planning for Universal Design
Learn the tools for implementing Universal Design in planning regulations.
Smith Gee Studio
City of Charlotte
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
City of Astoria
Transportation Research & Education Center (TREC) at Portland State University
US High Speed Rail Association
City of Camden Redevelopment Agency
Municipality of Princeton (NJ)