Women's Earth Alliance

KING COUNTY, WASHINGTON STATE, USA

Countywide Community Forums is a network of periodic public forums where people gather in small groups throughout King County to discuss current issues and provide important feedback to county government and other public officials. This is a unique partnership between citizens and county government to promote citizen participation, civic engagement, and citizenship education.

What to expect at a forum? Forums are organized by volunteers in homes, offices and libraries throughout the county. You can select the place and time most convenient to you. At each forum meeting, 4-12 participants:

• Watch a short video and/or review a brief written summary of the key facts and different perspectives on the issue under discussion.
• Take two minutes each to state their views on the topic,uninterrupted by other members of the group.
• Participate in an open group discussion.
• Complete an Opinionnaire: a confidential survey tool that asks specific questions about the current topic and the forums process.

The surveys are compiled into a report that is shared with the King County Council, the media and participants.

As of now, almost 1,500 citizens have registered to be part of the Citizen Councilor Network and 114 forums were organized by citizens throughout King County during the first round of forums on transportation in June/July 2008.

The Citizen Councilor Network draws its strength from numbers. We are seeking registrants who represent the rich diversity and complexity of views, priorities, and interests in the region. To receive notices about upcoming forums and events, register now at www.communityforums.org or, for more information, call (206) 296-1633 or email communityforums@kingcounty.gov.