Early Lessons Learned

Build new committees

Although creating a new local advisory committee specific to the project (as opposed to an existing board) takes longer and requires more time to build trust and relationships, a new group also allows for a fresh look at old issues and an opportunity to involve new people in civic activities.

Involve schools

Youth involvement is an excellent way to build community excitement and commitment to a project.  A Biddeford high school teacher will be engaging her students in the first round of storytelling, which will help kick off the broader project effort.

Identify local resources

Taking the time to identify local resources and train volunteers opens up the door to new possibilities for a project.

Set the ground rules

It is well worth the investment at the committee’s early meetings to focus on how the group will operate and communicate, from meeting facilitation and ground rules to processes for decision-making. If everyone is on the same page from the outset, the committee will function more effectively throughout the project.

Open the door

Heart & Soul Community Planning encourages new stakeholders to become active—those not usually involved in land use planning such as teachers and youth, people in historical societies, artists and cultural leaders.

 

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