We all say we want transparent government, but each legislative session, numerous bills are introduced to limit what you can learn about government operations. Every week, legitimate requests for information are rejected or ignored. Bit by bit, exemption by exemption, governments advocate for less public access, not more.
That’s why it is refreshing to see the Port Townsend City Council (WA) actually making it easier for people to access information and participate in government deliberations.
Jefferson Healthcare Help Wanted
Since 2009, agendas, meeting materials, and video recordings of City Council meetings have been viewable on the city’s website. Most recently, using the same online system, the city made it easier for people to become informed. Citizens now can send messages to the full council, leave comments that become a part of the public record, and archive comments for future review by decision makers. Continue>>>
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