Lake County to hold next town hall by telephone
Knowing residents are unlikely to travel at night to learn about government, Lake County officials plan to bring it to them.
Instead of holding open houses at various locations to explain what government does and seek opinions on how it can do better, Lake County on Dec 13 will hold its first telephone town hall.
As part of the process to gain input on future plans and priorities, officials hope to reach a larger and more diverse audience and narrow the gap between what government provides and what residents think it can or should do.
"Residents want us to be more efficient. The strategic plan is the vehicle for us to create a big picture, aspirational plan people can get behind," said county Board Chairman Aaron Lawlor, who will be the voice at the other end of the line.
Members of Congress commonly use this method to connect with residents as do some local legislators, especially during election season. Years ago, Lawlor coordinated such events as a staff member for then-U.S. Rep. Mark Kirk.
"It's a new thing we're doing and hopefully we're leveraging technology in a way that's much more effective," he said.
Per its own rules, a newly seated board must update the strategic plan by May. Part of that involves informing people what the county does (it is responsible for 300 miles of roads) and doesn't do (pick up your garbage) and seeking input on priorities and how tax dollars should be spent.
In 2008 and 2013, the process included a series of forums in the county. In 2008, 267 people attended six forums, and 198 people attended five forums in 2013. That doesn't include dozens of county employees who were on hand at each session to provide information as needed.
"A lot of effort and logistical planning goes into the forums," said Jennie Vana, county spokeswoman. "It takes a lot for people to come out in the evening and hear about the county (government) and give their input."
Technology can now bring the county to potential participants in their living rooms and reach a much bigger and more diverse audience.
The county will place calls to about 40,000 people whose numbers are publicly available. Anyone who answers will hear a message of introduction from Lawlor and instructions on how to participate. Research shows 15 percent to 20 percent of those contacted will listen for seven to eight minutes, Vana said. The session is expected to last an hour and will start with a "County 101" overview.
"We know people will drop off. But even if they stay on a few minutes, we think they'll learn something about Lake County," she said.
Lawlor said roads and transportation and furthering the mission of the new mental health task force are among the county's priorities.
He said taxpayers need relief and the county needs to focus on doing fewer things exceptionally well.
"We have to educate people what county services are. We have an important but limited role," Lawlor said. "Let's see what they think and see what we can do," he said.
To sign up, click here.