Beyond the Usual Suspects: Innovative Approaches to Engagement

Many community members have traditionally been left out of local government planning processes. Creating an equitable and inclusive comprehensive plan that reflects community priorities requires the participation of ALL voices.

Explore how the City of Bellingham, Washington, stepped outside the box with community partners to leverage existing relationships and create a more representative planning process during its comprehensive plan periodic update. Learn about the challenges and opportunities of this small and growing city’s collaboration efforts and how this work will help inform both the 2025 Bellingham Plan and its implementation.

Discussion topics that include recruitment strategies, participant compensation, group facilitation, member retention, and long-term accountability offer valuable lessons to municipal planners and other professionals who practice community engagement. Share reflections on your own innovative approaches to advancing equity and social justice.