Dear City of San Diego employees,

We at the City deliver the best results for our communities when we listen to and learn from the diverse perspectives of the people we serve. A history of structural exclusion and individual resource limitations has too often kept some San Diegans from having their voices heard in local decision-making, and we are committed to breaking down those barriers so more residents can participate in shaping the decisions that affect their lives.

The new Inclusive Public Engagement Guide helps put our operating principles—customer service, empowerment and engagement, equity and inclusion, and trust and transparency—into action. It also gives us a framework for more consistent and effective engagement processes while allowing flexibility to meet the unique needs of each City project.

This Guide was created with input from many City departments, community-based organizations, boards and commissions, and community members. By following its best practices, we can build stronger long-term relationships with the people in every neighborhood we serve.

I am committed to continually improving how we connect with our residents. This resource is another tool to make sure every San Diegan has a voice in our work—and that together, we’re building a brighter, more inclusive future for our city.