As your dedicated Ward 3 City Councilor and active 2023 candidate, I believe that utilizing forums hosted by nonprofits is a crucial step towards achieving transparency, visibility, and access in our local government. These platforms offer an inclusive space where citizens can engage in meaningful discussions about key issues, ensuring that their voices are not only heard but also integrated into the decision-making process. On August 30th, my wife and I participated in the Everett City Council Candidate Forum hosted by La Comunidad, Everett Community Growers, the Everett Haitian Community Center and the Brazilian Women’s Group.
By partnering with nonprofits to host these forums, we can foster an environment of openness and collaboration. This approach allows us to share information about upcoming projects, budget allocations, and policy changes, providing residents with a deeper understanding of the inner workings of our city government. Moreover, these forums create opportunities for residents to ask questions, seek clarifications, and provide valuable feedback, leading to more well-rounded and informed decision making.
Transparency isn’t just about sharing information—it’s about building trust. When residents see that their concerns are being acknowledged and addressed through these nonprofit-hosted forums, they are more likely to have confidence in our governance and be actively engaged in the community. This increased visibility also encourages a greater sense of civic responsibility, as residents become more invested in the success and growth of our city.
Accessibility is another key benefit of utilizing nonprofit forums. Not everyone can attend city council meetings in person due to various constraints, but these forums provide an avenue for participation regardless of one’s schedule or physical location. By breaking down barriers to engagement, we can ensure that a wider range of voices are represented in our decision-making processes.
In seeking reelection, I remain committed to enhancing our city’s democratic values by leveraging nonprofit forums to promote transparency, increase visibility, and provide accessible avenues for engagement. Together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community that thrives on the active involvement of its residents.
Darren Costa, Everett City Councilor 