18.7 How Citizens Can Engage with NOACA

Engaging with the Northeast Ohio Areawide Coordinating Agency (NOACA) is a way for citizens to actively participate in shaping the region’s transportation and environmental policies. One of the most direct ways to get involved is by attending a NOACA Board meeting. These meetings are open to the public and provide an opportunity for residents to comment on agenda-relevant issues. Meeting details, including time, place, and agenda, are posted on NOACA’s calendar usually a week before the meeting. Arriving a few minutes early to sign in ensures you can participate in the public comment period.

Another effective way to engage with NOACA is by providing feedback on projects. NOACA offers a “Comment on Projects” link on their homepage where citizens can share their thoughts on projects under consideration for funding. Additionally, when major planning and policy documents are being drafted, NOACA announces public comment periods on social media and in the “News and Announcements” section of their website. This is a crucial way for residents to influence important planning documents and policies.

Following NOACA on social media platforms such as Facebook, X, and LinkedIn is another valuable way to stay informed and engaged. NOACA uses these platforms to share updates about the agency’s activities, publicize meetings and opportunities for public involvement, and solicit feedback on current plans and documents. By engaging with NOACA on social media, citizens can stay updated and participate in ongoing discussions about regional transportation and environmental issues.

Citizens can also engage with NOACA by emailing the agency directly through the “Contact Us” link on their website. Signing up for NOACA’s E-newsletter, NOACA Connection, is another excellent way to receive regular updates about the agency’s projects, meetings, and public involvement opportunities. This ensures that you stay informed about the latest developments and opportunities to get involved.

Lastly, talking to your locally elected officials who serve on NOACA’s board is a powerful way to influence decision-making. The board includes mayors, county commissioners, city council members, and other elected representatives who are responsible for making key decisions for NOACA. By communicating your views and concerns to these officials, you can have a direct impact on the policies and projects that affect your community. Engaging with these representatives ensures that your voice is heard in the regional planning process.

Engaging with NOACA through these various channels empowers citizens to contribute to the planning and development of their region. Active participation in board meetings, providing feedback on projects, staying informed through social media and newsletters, and communicating with elected officials are all effective ways to ensure that your views and interests are represented in NOACA’s work.

Reference

https://www.noaca.org/about/about-noaca/how-to-interact-with-noaca