What is the role of community engagement in capital planning?

Community engagement plays a vital role in capital planning primarily because it ensures that the capital plan accurately reflects the needs and desires of stakeholders. Engaging community members in the planning process allows for diverse perspectives and inputs, which is essential for identifying priorities and needs that may not be evident from a purely technical or financial standpoint. This active involvement helps to foster a sense of ownership and accountability among stakeholders, which can lead to greater support for capital projects and initiatives.

By incorporating feedback from community engagement, planners can create a capital program that is not only feasible but also aligned with the interests of residents, businesses, and other stakeholders. This alignment ultimately enhances the effectiveness and acceptance of the plan when it is implemented, allowing for projects that are truly relevant and beneficial to the community.