Recently released Polco app creates an avenue for public input on city government happenings.
The city of East Lansing has recently released a new public engagement platform called Polco, an app where residents can provide input into the local government decision making process.
The app's purpose is to make public participation easier for residents and allow the government to have a simpler way to gather input.
“Polco meets people where they are — meaning if someone cannot attend a city council meeting or provide feedback through a traditional avenue, they have the option to provide their opinion online,” Assistant to the City Manager Nicole Bartell said via email.
The release of this app also coincides with Priority Based Budgeting implementation, which will enable resources to be provided for the programs and services that residents care about most.
“The city of East Lansing was introduced to Polco through our Priority Based Budgeting process with ResourceX,” Bartell said. “The city is always looking for new ways to engage with residents and was offered a six-month free trial to test Polco’s compatibility with the Priority Based Budgeting process.”
In order to establish a baseline on residents' opinions, the city has already started posting questions, with new questions being posted every second and fourth Tuesday of each month, ranging from broad topics to more specific issues.
East Lansing resident Greg Beachnau said he probably wouldn't use it because he prefers going to city hall and receiving the email newsletter from the city.
“I guess I'm a more hands-on person," he said. "I feel fairly well informed.”
The app is free to download on android and iOS or by signing up on the Polco website.
“We hope to see lots of participation from residents,” Bartell said. “While this platform will not replace other means of gathering community input, we believe it is a good tool to have in the toolbox.”
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