Consensus Building

Because different public and private sector organisations, as well as different departments within the public sector, have divergent goals and responsibilities, it is difficult to establish a consensus regarding priorities. Without a consensus the result is often a fragmented approach and a reacting to, rather than responding to, challenges based on a well-thought-through strategy. By contrast, a forward-looking vision for the future, which is shared by all major stakeholders, can become a powerful mechanism for enabling change to occur.

A measure which has frequently been used to achieve consensus is carefully planned symposia or sessions usually lasting one or more days, where stakeholders from the public and private sectors can meet to discuss priorities and develop a coordinated strategy on a way forward.

While this approach can often seem slow and cumbersome, there are untold benefits achieved through breaking down barriers and prejudices and agreeing on common goals and purposes for a city center. In many cities there are significant barriers to communication between businesses and the local authorities, as well as between city and county officials, paid officers and elected members, and between residents and other groups. These prejudices can have an undermining and harmful impact on the ability to achieve mutually beneficial results.

It is important that the person leading a consensus event is knowledgeable about city center issues, is experienced in leading groups and is not one of the stakeholders (who would have their own agenda). The group ideally does not comprise more than 30 people but includes a balance of public, private and voluntary sector representation.

The outcome of a successful consensus event is likely to include agreed decisions and outcomes, as well as improved working relationships and greater cooperation among individuals.

The City Center Manager can play an important role in helping the private sector to focus on critical issues and improve its organisational capacity.

 

Articles under this City Center Management topic have been lifted from Chapter 10- City Center Management by Kimberly Paumier, from the book: Investigating Town Planning- Changing Perspectives and Agendas, edited by Clara Greed.