Whenever I read about an “effective communication” plan I believe
that I will soon be recipient of a lot of material designed to bring me around
to the” correct” interpretation of events or issues. To be honest I am no stranger to this kind of
communication after all I author a blog.
I agree that City Hall, Mayor and Council need to improve
communications both internally and with the public. So on the surface the
recent adoption of the Strategic Communications Plan by Vernon City Council
should be applauded. I agree with the idea of some
consistency in what we receive from City hall and Council but in this case “the
Devil is in the adjectives”.
Very early in the report we find a list of key messages to
be included in all communications. Here are some the adjectives pulled from that
list: balanced, attractive, safe, vibrant, bold, progressive, rare, sound,
sustainable, wise, long range, balanced, sustainable. (sustainable is used
twice)These are warm fuzzy words from which we are meant to take comfort, particularly
when we receive them from our Governments. Could someone tell me how this is not
spin? Both Councillors Lord and Spiers thought so and voted to reject it. I
believe that the problem with the document lies with its self-laudatory use of
adjectives which places its stated purpose in doubt. After all it is an
election year.
I believe that what city staff, City Council and the public really
need to communicate are “Just the facts Ma’am.” The public will decide if some proposed action
is wise, bold, sound, balanced, progressive etc. Cheers! Shawn Lee a Vernon
Taxpayer
http://www.vernon.ca/images/uploads/council/agendas/packages/140526_vrsn_2.pdf
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