City communications staff presented a proposed framework for expanding council outreach and public engagement on Wednesday.

Kelsey Coleman, communications and engagement manager, described a four‑pronged approach she called “Meet You There”: rotating neighborhood dialogues or town‑hall‑style conversations; “community plugin” participation at existing events (markets, parades, service‑club meetings); a digital series using the city’s web and social channels; and a media plan to highlight councilmembers and their priorities. Coleman described the plan as flexible: activities could be mixed and matched to councilmembers’ schedules and intended to reach different groups across the city.

Staff said the plan would include an events calendar showing where councilmembers plan to appear and that staff would provide talking points, materials and social promotion to make participation easier for council. The proposal also flagged accessibility: staff recommended plain‑language materials, translations and partnerships to reach residents who do not typically attend city meetings.

Council asked how the program would reach residents who distrust local government or who are not already engaged; staff proposed simplified language, targeted in‑person outreach, social‑media promotion and small advertising buys to broaden reach. Councilmembers discussed pilot events (farmers market, senior center visits, bike rides) and suggested the city maintain a running list of community groups and meeting locations. Staff requested feedback and permission to begin outreach and scheduling.