One of the greatest things about our American democracy is its resilient capacity for freedom of expression, along with lively engagement with our governing bodies. This extends from the highest levels on the national level down to local civic affairs.

Here in Somerville, we can take advantage of the many opportunities presented to us to communicate our wishes and concerns at regular public meetings. By way of example, the city has scheduled its spring 2023 City Hall Community Meetings. Meetings such as these are held twice a year in each of Somerville’s seven wards, sharing the latest city and neighborhood updates with community members. And, of course, the public has a right to attend and also be heard.

The meetings provide the mayor and city staff with the opportunity to present plans for neighborhood projects and initiatives, and keep us all up-to-date with the latest city news, as well as providing information on how to become personally involved in our city’s affairs.

The meetings are friendly and include a half-hour pizza and snacks conversation session with city officials and staff.

One of the important topics covered this year that citizens can weigh in on is how the city should spend the $1 million dedicated to the city’s Participatory Budgeting process. To learn more about this and get the full schedule of meetings, go to www.somervillema.gov/mysomerville.

It’s a much more effective way to get your wants and concerned across to our civic leaders than simply taking them to the streets. And much nicer too.