Chris Hibler Fresno | Moving Beyond Town Halls in Community Planning
Chris Hibler Fresno
Community engagement is often described as a cornerstone of good planning, yet traditional methods don’t always capture the full range of voices. Chris Hibler Fresno explains that while town halls serve a purpose, they often attract only a narrow segment of residents—those with flexible schedules, reliable transportation, or familiarity with public forums. To build projects that truly reflect community priorities, engagement must go further.
One effective approach is meeting residents in the places they already spend time. Farmers’ markets, schools, libraries, and neighborhood events provide natural opportunities to gather input. By bringing the conversation to these spaces, planners reach people who may never attend a formal meeting. Chris Hibler Fresno emphasizes that this not only increases participation but also ensures that feedback better reflects the community as a whole.
Clear communication is another key factor. Technical jargon can alienate residents, leaving them confused or discouraged from contributing. Instead, Chris Hibler Fresno suggests using plain language and visual tools like maps or diagrams to make information accessible. When people understand what is being proposed, they can share insights that directly improve the project.
Temporary demonstrations also play an important role. Pop-up bike lanes, test plazas, or pilot traffic-calming measures allow residents to experience changes before they are permanent. These interactive methods generate valuable feedback and build trust between planners and the community.
Ultimately, Chris Hibler Fresno believes that engagement must be seen as an ongoing conversation rather than a single event. Regular updates, follow-up surveys, and visible use of community input help residents feel heard and respected. Projects shaped by this kind of process gain stronger support and stand a better chance of long-term success.
By moving beyond traditional town halls, cities create planning processes that are inclusive, transparent, and responsive. Chris Hibler Fresno concludes that genuine engagement is what turns projects from technical exercises into community achievements that residents feel proud to support.