Mayor’s In, Mayor’s Out Program
Citing a desire to bring residents closer to City Hall and to keep them connected with their local government, Mayor Tim DeGeeter’s “Mayor’s In, Mayor’s Out” program is in full swing.
 The program began in May, 2012; here’s how it works:
Each month, the Mayor announces when he will hold office hours that month and whether he will be “in” or “out;” he will alternate between his City Hall office –“Mayor’s In” - and a public place or event – “Mayor’s Out.” Announcements of the date, time and location are made in advance, using social media, such as Facebook and Twitter, and local media outlets.
On the designated date, residents can show up and have five minutes to talk to the mayor one-on-one on a first-come, first-served basis. If an issue requires the expertise of a particular department director, it will be brought to the attention of that director by the mayor. On some evenings, select directors may also be in attendance.
Then, shortly after the event, every resident who participates receives a follow-up letter from DeGeeter and one from the appropriate director, if applicable, addressing the issue that was raised.
“I want to use this program to help residents feel closer to their local government and to encourage them to actively participate,” DeGeeter said. “When I was a legislator, I often said the best ideas came from the constituents I served. And, as mayor, I still believe that that is true.”
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