Like many other places in the United States, Fairfax County, Virginia, is facing some budget shortfalls as a result of the global economic downturn. But rather than work in isolation to try to solve the problem, the county’s leaders are seeking input from residents.
“Our ongoing challenge is to develop a budget with an appropriate level of services that are both sustainable and acceptable to the community,” reads a notice I received from my son’s primary school. “Fairfax County Government and Fairfax County Public Schools invite you to register and attend one of 12 Community Dialogues being held this Fall to share your feedback on the impacts of recent budget reductions as well as seeking for solutions to close the FY 2011 budget gap. Community decision-makers will use your input as a key factor to help guide the development of criteria for making budget decisions.”
For those who can’t attend any of the dialogues but who nevertheless want to provide input, the county has also established a dedicated phone number (“Budget Hotline”) and a budget feedback form on its Web site.
I don’t know if county leaders will find anything I say to be helpful, but I certainly appreciate being asked! Do government leaders ask for public input where you live?
After practicing law for a number of years, Michael Jay Friedman returned to school and earned a doctorate in U.S. political and diplomatic history. 
Michelle Austein Brooks is a U.S. government and politics writer who has covered three national elections for America.gov. 
Peggy B. Hu defied Asian-American stereotypes in college by studying comparative literature and international relations rather than math and science. 
Stephen Kaufman is an experienced writer who has covered the White House and the State Department, and continues to report on international and democracy issues, including press freedom. 
Tanya Brothen is a blogging enthusiast who began writing for the web on a whim. Now it’s her job.
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