Civic engagement is an essential part of a healthy, functioning democracy. To that end, a small group of residents is looking to provide opportunities for area citizens to gather and talk about community concerns. Such gatherings will be nonpartisan in nature and are intended to give attendees a chance to have conversations in an open forum atmosphere about issues affecting Silver Bay and the surrounding area.
In an email to the North Shore Journal, Carolyn Hudyma wrote, “We are inviting all ages and hope to have broad representation reflecting the makeup of Northern Minnesota residents. If there is interest, we plan to hold monthly meetings or quarterly gatherings in various locations, alternating between afternoon and evening meetings. Those attending will decide the structure and direction of establishing this citizen led organization. Ideas and concerns will be shared with local, county and state leadership.” Some issues that have been expressed by those working to organize the group include affordable and workforce housing, but the aim is to openly discuss any concerns or ideas that folks who show up bring to the table.
Creating opportunities for people to gather and share diverse perspectives about community issues can increase citizen voice in local decision making, so let your voice be heard. The first organizational meeting of the Citizens Advisory Group will be held on Tuesday, April 9, at 12:00 PM in the North Shore Area Partners conference room in Silver Bay.
