Get Involved: Why You Should Attend Town Planning Meetings

Posted on: 19 July 2021

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If you've never been to a town planning meeting before, it's time to do so. You might not realise this, but participating in town planning meetings is an important part of your rights as a citizen. If you're like most people, you don't exercise all those rights, which is why you need to attend town planning meetings. If you're still not sure that you need to be participating in town planning meetings, read the information provided below. Here are just four of the many reasons you should attend town planning meetings. 

Understand the Planning Process

If you're not sure how plans are decided for your town, start participating in the town planning meetings. Most town planning meetings are open to the community, which means you can watch the proceedings. One of the benefits of attending town planning meetings is that you can get a firsthand look at the actual planning process, including the debate that goes on before plans are put into action. 

Identify the Committee Members 

If you've never been to a town planning meeting, chances are you don't know who's representing your interests at those meetings. That's why you need to become a regular attendee at the local town planning meetings. Not only do you get the chance to meet the members of the committee, but they get a chance to meet you as well. Having a personal connection to the members of the planning committee can help you out when you have an issue that needs to be addressed. Not only that, but your presence at town planning meetings ensures that the committee members recognise the impact of the issues before them.

Voice Your Opinion on Topics

If you own property, either residential or commercial, you have a vested interest in the community, which includes the plans being considered. Unfortunately, if you don't actively participate in the planning meetings, you might not know what plans are moving forward. Or, which plans are stalled in committee. One of the benefits of attending planning meetings is that you have the opportunity to offer your opinion regarding topics that affect you.

Network With Neighbours

Finally, if you want to get involved in the community, the best thing you can do is network with neighbours. Unfortunately, that's difficult to do, especially when neighbourhoods are spread out. That's where town planning meetings come into the picture. When you attend town planning meetings, you'll have the opportunity to network with other community members, which will help to strengthen your network. 

Many decisions are made during town planning meetings. Attend one to learn more about things going on in your area.