City & Local

Policy Making

3 articles

Diverse citizens, including youth and seniors, collaborating and discussing policy documents in a community center with city hall in the background.
Community

How to Influence Local Government Programs and Services

In San Carlos, sixty young people, aged 12 to 17, actively shaped a General Plan update, proving that even unexpected voices can directly influence local policy.

Derek Molina·May 10, 2026
Frustrated citizens in a city hall meeting room, their engagement seemingly ignored by a dismissive official, highlighting limited impact on policy.
Community

Citizen Engagement: Limited Impact on City Policy in 2026

Despite Riverside's community engagement process for the Cesar Chavez Community Center's name, no change proposal is on the table.

Derek Molina·May 2, 2026
Diverse citizens protest outside city hall with signs advocating for transparency and community input in city planning.
Community

Citizen Advocacy Shapes City Planning in 2026

After public and city council concerns mounted, Bloomington Mayor Kerry Thomson ended the city's contract with surveillance company Flock Safety, demonstrating the direct power of citizen advocacy in

Derek Molina·April 20, 2026