Amy from MCF visted TalkAboutBradford.com and told us of this web site. I want to commend the consultants for bringing this tool to the planning process.
There have been many comments relating to the negative attitude of Bradford. A large segment of the population feels disenfranchised from the planning and governing of the city and townships. They perceive that the decisions are made by someone else, and that they aren't "stakeholders" in the area. It has been my experience that a majority of residents are very interested in the future of the city and the region.
Community involvement is key to developing a Bradford Regional Strategy. Keeping the public informed about the project is educational. People can learn what is realistic for the area, and what is not. An informed populace can contribute to the conversation more effectively. Inviting public comment will certainly result in a wider range of opinions. It could also solicit some good ideas, it will engage those who are interested, and quite those who say they're not asked for their opinions. Both education and engagement will make more people "stakeholders" in Bradford's future and should mean broader support for the plan.
The forums on this web site are designed to allow a structured discussion. Ideas and replies. Opinions and replies. Discussion, and if not consensus, then at least a better understanding.