New civic engagement initiative invites residents to submit ideas through May 15
FOLSOM — The City of Folsom is launching a new partnership with Change.org to pilot “Ideas for Change,” an initiative designed to gather community-driven solutions to local challenges at no cost to the city.
Now through May 15, Folsom residents can share ideas, respond to others and help identify priorities for the community through the online platform. After the input period, Change.org will analyze submissions to identify the topics that resonate most. A diverse group of residents will then be invited to participate in guided discussions to refine those ideas into practical, actionable proposals.
“Strong communities are built through listening and collaboration. This partnership gives residents a meaningful way to engage, share ideas, and help identify solutions that reflect what matters most to Folsom,” said Justin Raithel. “The City of Folsom is committed to reviewing what comes forward and exploring how we can move those ideas ahead.”
Through a mix of online forums and virtual dialogue, the initiative is designed to highlight what matters most to residents and reflect a broader, more representative cross-section of the community. The results will help inform future decision-making, with findings expected later this summer.
“Change.org will host an online space where residents can not only share their own ideas about what would be good for the city, but also support and build on others’ ideas. Our process engages a wide range of community members and builds consensus around practical policy solutions,” said Duncan Lockard. “We are excited to engage residents of Folsom and bring their ideas to city leadership.”
Similar programs have been piloted in cities such as Bozeman, Kansas City and Albuquerque.
Local community partners are also supporting the initiative, helping to inform initial ideas and encourage broad participation across the city. The effort will supplement existing community engagement tools, including public meetings, surveys and outreach events, by reaching residents who may not typically participate.
Residents can visit ideasforchange.org/folsom to submit ideas or vote on existing suggestions. For more information, emailcontact@ideasforchange.org.
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