Although it may be too soon to call it a trend, another informal gathering hosted by Jefferson City ward representatives is an encouraging sign.
Fourth Ward council members Carrie Carroll and Carlos Graham will hold a community meeting from 9-11 a.m. Saturday at Capital West Christian Church Event Center, 1315 Fairgrounds Road. The building near the Jaycees Fairgrounds previously housed Great Central Lumber.
Carroll credits Graham with planning the event, which she said is designed to share information and increase communication among city residents and their council representatives.
"We'll cover a few projects of interest to the 4th Ward, and some city staff will be on hand to help us answer any questions they might have," Carroll said.
The 4th Ward meeting follows a similar session held last month in the 5th Ward by council members Ralph Bray and Larry Henry Jr. Their session attracted nearly double the expected turnout.
We're delighted the 5th Ward gathering was well attended and well received, and we hope Saturday's event also is productive.
Interaction with local governments is effective and practical. When people attend local meetings and forums, they communicate face-to-face with their elected representatives - whether City Council members, county commissioners or school board members.
Constituents who take part in Saturday's session not only remain informed about local projects, they promote an open and accessible government process.