As parents, we try to sugarcoat the bad news to our children. Not wanting to hurt their feelings. In the work place we find ways to prove, justify and cajole the facts and numbers to show our accomplishments. Our schools have been lowering the bar to make parents feel good about their kids and avoid the sad truth that we have been failing each generation more than the last. Graduation rates have been rising as we continue to lower the graduation standards. We also have our governments that are putting us on a “truth diet”. Finding every creative way of avoiding to tell us the harsh truths and massaging the message through public relations, social media and communication professionals. Making sure we are getting dribs and drabs of truths like bad tasting medicine. With public cheerleaders on social media shaming anyone that simply wants the truth and nothing but the truth.
Here’s the problem with the truth. Not everyone likes the truth. Jobs and elections balance on how the truth is delivered and more importantly perceived. There are plenty of examples of that all around us. At every level of government. Can the government “choose” to avoid giving us bad news? Without diving into a political debate, elections are always an indicator of when voters have had enough of one version of the truth and now are wanting a new version. But when it comes to local politics that includes construction projects, budgets, parks and recreation etc… We just want the simple stuff; What do we vote on? When will it start, when will it finish and how much will it cost?
We probably have an easier time trusting and accepting truths when we know the person vs the entity. Do I trust everything that comes from the city? No, but if it came from someone at the city that I already have a relationship with, then yes, I would believe them. Contrary to large (Federal and state governments, small governments (city and county) can gain trust with voters by delivering on tangible promises made. Failing to deliver even on simple promises (like road openings) slowly erodes that level of trust. Ultimately having a negative effect of ballot questions and general elections.
Having been invited to two city meetings regarding the planning of future infrastructure, neighborhood planning and the future of our Parks and Rec program, It is remarkable to see the level of input the city seeks in almost every turn of their planning. The hired consultant shared that in their experience “the level and amount of feedback they have received from the multiple surveys, personal and community encounters, mailed in and on line surveys far exceeded the average they are used to”. It’s very clear to see that Wheat Ridge residents want and like having their opinions asked for. That is definitely a result of people trusting that they are being heard and are being told the truth….. As always, thanks for reading.
