The City Council’s Community Dialogue Committee is seeking public comment following the recent Newton Teachers Association strike. The committee was formed to help address a need for renewed focus on transparency to the City’s budget, processes, and the roles and responsibilities of key groups within City government, including but not limited to, Newton Public Schools, the Mayor’s office, School Committee, and City Council.
The City Council is seeking residents’ thoughts and input as to what Newton’s government should do next. What information should Newton share? How should we share that information? How can we make information easier to find and understand?
The Council encourages residents to share their thoughts with these upcoming opportunities:
- Short questionnaire for residents to share their experiences during the strike. This questionnaire is available online and on paper at the Clerk’s office (City Hall, 1st floor).
- Hybrid session on February 29 at 7PM for residents to provide their thoughts on how Newton can provide increased transparency and improve communications. Residents may provide spoken comments (up to 3 minutes each) either in-person at City Hall or remotely via Zoom. More sessions will be scheduled as needed.
The Committee said that it appreciates all of the comments and forward-looking suggestions the public will leave as to how the City can keep residents informed about municipal activity. “Your input will help shape our recommendations. We want to hear from you.”
