Transparency in governance is often spoken about in broad terms, but true transparency requires more than just presentations and announcements at public meetings.
It must be a consistent, efficient and structured process – one that ensures no stakeholder, whether a board member or a member of the public, is left in the dark.
When clear and standardized procedures are in place, everyone understands the why, how, where and when of decision-making.
Establishing Standard Operating Procedures
A commitment to transparency means ensuring that processes are not just open but also accessible. Organizations, especially public bodies like county and municipal governments, school boards, zoning boards and planning boards, should make their procedures and decision-making frameworks readily available. One of the most effective ways to accomplish this is by maintaining updated, detailed information on official websites.
For example, all requests for proposals (RFPs) for professional services should be posted publicly online. The public should not learn about newly awarded contracts only at reorganization meetings when decisions have already been made. Instead, citizens have the right to know who applied, how many entities submitted proposals and why a particular business or service provider was selected.
Providing Adequate Time for Review
Another critical aspect of transparency is ensuring that decision-makers themselves have sufficient time to review materials before meetings. When members of school boards, zoning boards and planning boards receive critical information packets only days or even hours before a meeting, they are not given the opportunity to make fully informed decisions. Instead, best practices dictate that these materials should be distributed at least one week before public meetings.
By giving board members ample time to review proposals, ask necessary questions and seek clarification, they can vote in a more informed and responsible manner. This practice ultimately benefits the public, as it leads to well-thought-out decisions rather than rushed approvals.
The Public’s Right to Know
At its core, transparency is about public trust. Citizens have the right to know how their government or governing bodies operate, how decisions are made and how taxpayer money is spent. Making this information readily accessible fosters accountability and prevents unnecessary speculation or distrust.
Organizations that prioritize transparency set a precedent for good governance. They create an environment in which public participation is encouraged and where decisions are based on clear, fair and consistent standards.
By implementing best practices such as timely access to information, clear public documentation of procedures and open access to RFP processes, governing bodies can serve their communities more effectively and with greater integrity.
Ultimately, transparency is not just a buzzword – it is a fundamental pillar of good governance. When properly implemented, it ensures that no one is left wondering about the decisions that shape their communities.
