Implementing Public Engagement

Working with Neighborhood Associations

About Neighborhood Associations

Neighborhood associations or town councils are voluntarily organized groups of residents that work to enhance the quality of life in their neighborhood or community.  These groups may deal with a range of concerns that affect neighborhoods and communities such as business improvement, crime, speeding traffic, neighborhood beautification, nuisance issues, etc.

Neighborhood associations may run or sponsor local civic events such as block parties, townhall meetings and neighborhood clean-ups. They also provide opportunities at their meetings to exchange information and hear from local officials. Neighborhood associations can vary in the geographic area they represent. Their purview can be community-wide, but typically covers specific neighborhoods.

Role of Neighborhood Associations in Public Participation

Neighborhood associations are typically made up of residents, local business owners and representatives from other local community organizations. They have a deep understanding of the unique needs, concerns and priorities of their neighborhoods. This allows them to offer valuable perspectives on various local issues, including strengthening neighborhood identity, improving infrastructure and enhancing safety.

Staff should work with neighborhood associations to share information and/or receive input about local projects such as infrastructure improvements, policy initiatives or new public facilities. Neighborhood associations can also help inform City staff about stakeholder interests and local events for public engagement opportunities.

Ways to Work with Neighborhood Associations

• Setting up an interview with a neighborhood association representative(s) can help staff understand who may be interested in a project and local perspectives on the topic.
• Participate in neighborhood association-sponsored community events to share information on a project and/or obtain input.
• Attend neighborhood association meetings.  Most active neighborhood associations have websites that provide their meeting information as well as identify a point of contact who is usually their association chairperson, president or secretary.
• When presenting to a neighborhood association:
  • Providing informational material in advance is helpful so that the neighborhood association can disseminate background material to interested attendees prior to the meeting.
  • Provide any handouts of relevant material, such as a factsheet or copy of the PowerPoint presentation.
  • Present information about the project/input opportunity and allow members of the neighborhood association and the public to ask questions.
  • Provide contact information for any follow-up questions after the meeting.
  • After the presentation, provide written responses to any questions or inquiries that were raised.
  • Report back to the association about how input was considered, if applicable. This may consist of a brief, informational report at a subsequent in-person or virtual meeting or reaching out to the chairperson with an email update.