Promoting Civil Discourse in
Local Government
Presented by Bill Rizzo
Local Government Specialist
UW-Extension Local Government Center
bill.rizzo@ces.uwex.edu
608-265-6273
Session Objectives
1.
2.
Explain what civil discourse is.
Make the case for its importance for local
government.
3.
Outline principles of effective civil discourse.
4.
Provide some examples.
5.
Some idea sharing.
What is meant by
Civil Discourse?
Civil
“Polite but not friendly, only as polite as a
person needs to be in order to not be rude;
of, relating to, or involving the general
public, their activities, needs, or ways, or
civic affairs as distinguished from special
(as military or religious) affairs.”
(Merriam-Webster Dictionary)
Discourse
” The use of words to exchange thoughts
and ideas.”
(Merriam-Webster Dictionary
Civil Discourse
The polite exchange of thoughts and ideas
relating to affairs of the public.
Challenges for Local Government

Disengagement between citizens and
local government

A crisis of confidence in government

Wicked problems

Increasing incivility in public life
Opportunities for Local Government

Expand the roles of elected officials

Better policy solutions
o
o
o
reduce transaction and opportunity costs for local
government
policy solutions that more accurately represent
community complexity and diversity.
broader, more sustained support for policy decisions

Rebuild the public’s confidence & trust in government

More knowledgeable, collaborative, engaged citizens
Principles of Effective Civil Discourse

Those affected by a decision are involved in the decisionmaking process.

The public's contribution will influence the decision.

Decision-makers communicate to participants how their
input affected the decision.

Recognizes and communicates the needs and interests
of all participants, including decision makers.
Principles of Effective Civil Discourse

Seeks out and facilitates the involvement of those
potentially affected by or interested in a decision.

Seeks input from participants in designing how they
participate.

Provides participants with the information they need to
participate in a meaningful way.
Promoting Civil Discourse in
Local Government
Presented by Bill Rizzo
Local Government Specialist
UW-Extension Local Government Center
bill.rizzo@ces.uwex.edu
608-265-6273