Granite State values citizen participation

More than a century ago Gifford Pinchot, first chief of the U.S. Forest Service, observed that the strength of our nation lies in the public's ability to guide policy decisions, both at the local and national levels.

New Hampshire towns have followed this strong tradition of public participation; we're one of only two states in the nation that still uses town meeting as a way to engage citizens in local decision-making (Vermont being the other). Many New Hampshire towns have had a town meeting form of government since the 17th century.

With town meeting rapidly approaching for many New Hampshire towns, let's take the time to reflect on what it means to participate in public decision-making, whether these decisions focus on a community's master plan, local schools, capital improvement projects, economic development, or other local issues. Here are just a few reasons:

• Community residents know their issues and needs best.


• Public forums can educate both citizens and policy-makers about the various perspectives around any given issue.


• Moving a decision or policy into action is more likely if the public is vested in the process.


• Public participation builds accountability for both public officials and the citizenry.

Public Radio's interactive town meeting mapping project
New Hampshire Public Radio recently collaborated with the New Hampshire Local Government Center to create a new way for citizens to learn about and become active in local affairs--an interactive town meeting map, where citizens can find the details of their local town meeting, view some of the warrant articles up for consideration, and participate in a dialogue on the issues. Close to 100 towns have submitted information so far, and the project continues to grow.

Town meeting isn't the only opportunity to get involved in decision-making in your community. To find out about a variety of other ways to get involved, visit Public Participation in Local Decision-making.