So reports the AJC in an article about the city’s new open forum.

I wonder who could possibly be held responsible for this recent, intense online initiative by the city (cough, cough).

We sure have come a long way since I wrote this back in January as part of a plea to the city to embrace new online technology to improve help improve communication…

I believe that in the 21st century, Decatur residents shouldn’t have to wait for a monthly newsletter or for a questionably factual article to be written in the AJC to find out what going in around town. We want to know about the issues as they are happening, so as many residents as possible know about the destruction of Decatur Stadium or the PATH through Mason Mill Park to be able to speak up about them before its too late. Though this more efficient spread of news and info may at times compel more folks into the commission room at city hall, hopefully they will also better informed.

I also believe that it is in the city’s interest to have a voice in this new, online dialog. City government should be able to respond to issues when things on the internet get too heated or misconstrued. They should use it as a way of getting the word out about events and meetings. Opening this channel will go along way to “improving communication” between the city and its residents, which is a key concern among residents today.

Looking back on it…we’ve seen huge changes in the online space over the past 12 months.  Everyone from city employees to bloggers to online participants are to be commended!

Linda Harris writes in to let us know that the first two questions in the city’s new “Open City Hall”forum are now posted online at the city’s website.

This beta public forum will allow residents to voice their opinions directly to the city regarding issues currently being considered by the commission.   You can only post once, so its not really a forum for discussion, but can go back and edit your opinion if you end up changing your mind down the road.  Also, you are required to input your name and address, but have the option of remaining anonymous to site viewers and the city if desired.

The first two questions ask for your stance on annexation and urban farming.   (I might suggest reading through the city manager’s new report of annexation before commenting on the former) Also according to Linda, “The next two questions will be related to transportation and downtown development and the final two will be taxes and greenspace.  We will post them during the next month and leave them up for three months.”

Click here to get right to it!