Calling it a new era of communication and collaboration, the Tucson Mayor and Council and Tucson City Manager Mike Letcher are hosting a series of Dialogues with citizens to discuss City budget challenges and priorities for City services.

“The times dictate that we develop a new way of doing business with our citizens and with the many groups and organizations that support our great community,” Letcher said. “These Dialogues are only a first step in what will be an ongoing effort to connect with the residents of Tucson to discuss the future of our city.”

The public is encouraged to attend a Dialogue. The format will include a background presentation about the City’s budget, services and financial situation, followed by small group discussions during which participants will be asked for their input on city service and funding priorities – both short-term and long-term strategies.

Citizens are also invited to use this website to access the same information as they would get at a live Dialogue. In addition, citizens can record their ideas and suggestions here.

This website provides 24/7 access to our citizens, especially to citizens with health issues or with work or family obligations that make it difficult to participate in person. It also provides additional transparency since all the public input is recorded here. And it allows citizens to “vote” on ideas they like and even comment on ideas other citizens have offered at our “UserVoice Forum“.

“These decisions are critical to the future of our community and the future of our families, friends, and neighbors,” Letcher added. “People’s time is valuable, but because of the importance and long-term consequences of this community-wide Dialogue, I strongly urge people to participate.”

The results of these Dialogues will be available here over the next few months or can be sent to you by calling 791-4204 or emailing the City Manager’s Office at dialogues@tucsonaz.gov . The Mayor and Council will begin budget discussions for next year once the Dialogues conclude and they receive your input. Final budget adoption is scheduled for late spring 2010.