One of the facets of the job of city council member is to attend meetings, seminars and conferences outside of the city as they pertain to local government. In doing this, I am able to meet council members and mayors from all over California. Interacting with other officials is very enlightening and being able to share ideas with one another is a great networking tool for all of us.
This past week I attended a conference in Monterey and attended meetings discussing various topics that will help me serve this community better. In getting to talk with other city officials I realize how very lucky we are to live in Foster City.
One of the classes I attended had to do with how to get residents involved and informed. During this session we all had the opportunity to share the ways we connected with the public. Discussing live televising of council meetings seemed a luxury for some cities while others taped meetings to be played back at another time. Others were still working on getting the technology going in their cities. Some cities were working on creating council chambers that would be more inviting for the public to attend meetings.
When I described our council chambers and talked about our local government channel, I had some interested council members wanting to know more about Foster City. We have a terrific system set up to advertise various citywide events, council meetings, advisory committee meetings and public service announcements. I can only hope that from time to time every resident in Foster City has watched the local government channel. It is your link to staying on top of what is going on in the city.
Speaking of citywide events, the Friday evening entertainment has drawn the crowds to Leo Ryan Park. Residents are enjoying the “Summer Concerts in the Park.” The weather has been very accommodating for these events so far. Even if there were a chill in the air, those dancing up a storm wouldn’t feel it and those sitting in the amphitheater come prepared.
Between the Lion’s Club and Rotary Club, participants are enjoying food and refreshments (for all ages I might add) both hot and cold. The price is right…free; the food is good, the entertainment is great and the social atmosphere is priceless. This is a terrific community get together. Make it a point to get out there on Friday nights.
As always I look forward to your comments on this and other issues. Email me at lkoelling@fostercity.org
print 