Could the Sault become a model for other cities?

[Gerry Kirk]

These are exciting times. Sault Ste. Marie elected a mayor who is passionate about community engagement, who calls herself a public servant, not a politician, someone who has been working on building a more inclusive community before becoming elected.

I'm meeting with her for the second time in a few days to discuss what to do first in re-shaping how citizens and city gov engage each other. I have this privilege because of the work ChangeCamp Sault has been doing over the past half year.

Since last June I've run a series of open space and world café events, focusing on building connections and discussing how we can create a more vibrant community here in Sault Ste. Marie. During the municipal election I ran a virtual café using an Innovation Game® tool, and another café I called Civic Speed Dating designed for citizens to interact with candidates in meaningful ways.

There is also a new online gathering space for Sault change agents and an Ideas Forum for citizens to submit, vote and comment on ideas for the Sault.

What I'm looking for are a few mentors or fellow travelers to help guide my efforts. Community engagement is a passion, but not something I have a great deal of experience with. 

This is a great moment of opportunity. If you'd like to be a part of this grand experiment, please email me and I will be in touch to share more detailed plans and thoughts.

Towards a vibrant democracy,

Gerry

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