CINCINNATI – Councilmember Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney brought forward an ordinance requesting that the City Manager create policy for community engagement for all city departments, boards, and commissions. The ordinance passed unanimously. "This community engagement ordinance has undergone a great deal of community engagement," Kearney said.

It started eight years ago with then Councilmember Kevin Flynn and community advocates Sue Wilke and Peter Hames. Over the years, Wilke and Hames have worked on the proposed ordinance with several former councilmembers as well as many community council representatives. The president of Invest in Neighborhoods, Elizabeth Bartley, recently circulated a petition in support of the ordinance that was signed by 132 individuals from 40 neighborhoods.

Jeanne Nightingale, a former Women's City Club president suggested that the City Manager form a volunteer advisory committee to suggest specific policies for the city departments, boards, and commissions. "Such a committee of community members was used to develop the 2012 Plan Cincinnati," Kearney stated.

With input and participation from citizens, community councils, community groups, and City partners, this new policy will serve as a bridge for all to become more involved with City functions and decisions.

"This is just the first step," said Councilmember Jan-Michele Lemon Kearney. "We have a lot more work to do and we look forward to engaging the community to ensure that all voices are heard in this process moving forward." Kearney thanked longtime community activists, Sue Wilke and Peter Hames, for their work in bringing this policy to Council. "Sue and Peter have worked hard on this effort for eight years, advocating for open and clear communications from the City with the community. We appreciate their dedication and look forward to our work together."