The Office of Collaboration and Dispute Resolution assists state and local government in designing and delivering meaningful public engagement. State of Minnesota 2016 Civic Engagement Plan defines meaningful public engagement as “the intentional effort of government to facilitate meaningful dialogue with all members of the public in its work and the development of policy. Meaningful engagement means that relationships and conversations are reciprocal, authentic, and intentional to create opportunities for all communities to participate in the process.” The public’s increased interest in participating in public decision making creates tremendous opportunities for better public policy and a stronger democracy. To realize these opportunities, both state and local government need new and innovative tools to partner with the public.
The Office of Collaboration and Dispute Resolution has developed a Model and compiled a list of tools below to assist in providing meaningful public engagement.
