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Public commenters and staff disagree on whether communications and community engagement are reaching residents
Summary
Public commenters at the May 7 steering committee meeting said cynicism about homelessness and safety is eroding trust in Justice Project communications, while county staff described weekly social posts and an email list that reaches nearly 900 people.
Public comment at the Whatcom County Incarceration Reduction Task Force steering committee on May 7 centered on community anxiety over homelessness and skepticism about whether communications about the Justice Project translate into local safety improvements.
A resident who spoke during public comment described conversations with neighbors on Guide Meridian and King Mountain and said many community members would "probably not believe that this is a success as long as there's large homeless encampments." The commenter said fear of theft and uncomfortable interactions has reduced people's willingness to engage with public conversations about the Justice Project.
Riley, the county communications lead on the project, said staff are publishing weekly social media posts, maintaining a Justice Project page that consolidates reports and plans, and preparing a monthly newsletter. "We're at just shy of 900 people" on the email list, Riley said, adding that 60—70% of recipients open council newsletters when blasts go out.
Committee members acknowledged the communications work but said messages alone will not restore trust. Marty suggested task-force members amplify accurate resources, and Heather reminded the group there is precedent for buying outside communications capacity: she said the county previously spent about $227,000 on a communications firm for ballot-related outreach and that similar support could be considered.
Public commenters urged the task force to show measurable results rather than rely on outreach alone. Jill said staff will continue updating online reports and quarterly materials so partners can amplify them.
The steering committee did not adopt new communications policy at the meeting; members asked staff to continue publishing planned materials and to report back on outreach reach and content for the May 18 packet.
