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shouA, again, be very open to individuai or group meetings to explain the assessment roll and <br />the sort of testimony that is appropriate at the hearing. <br />Meeting Techniques <br />i o assure a productive meeting, the foliowing (or similar; guidelines should be followed: <br />9. Plan the meeting (who will attend topics to be covered, location, etc.) in advance. <br />2. Have a written agenda. <br />3. Start on time. <br />4. Use the agenda. <br />5. Keep the meeting moving. <br />6. Buiid consensus. <br />7. Finish on time. <br />8. Keep minutes in relation to the agenda items. <br />Meeting locations other than city hall or recognized central meeting places (i.e., homes, schools, <br />etc.) should be cautiously evaluated in terms of convenience, safety, wheelchair accessibility and <br />emergency response time. Other meeting techniques are included in Appendix B. Meeting times <br />should be planned for maximum convenience to property owners. <br />Public Hearings <br />See Chapter 5. <br />Media Relations <br />"Turn your back to the camera and give an assumed name.' <br />This is what most of us want to do when confronted by a reporter or television news crew. We <br />also know this is not practical. Media coverage of LID proceedings is more than likely due to the <br />direct impacts that LIDs have on property owners. A proactive policy of responding to the media <br />will result in a better informed citizenry, an improved perception of local government, a positive <br />city image and a strengthened sense of community. <br />Media relations policies should establish a primary contact for the city, but avoid limiting media <br />access to employees. Develop a healthy working relationship with the reporters or news crews <br />on the city hail beat. Even if the story being written is negative, providethe reporterwith as much <br />information as you would for someone writing a positive story. Take as much time as necessary <br />to explain policy or technical issues. Things that are second nature to you are probably so much <br />Greek to someone who does not deal with them on a daily basis. Remember that reporters have <br />daily deadlines. Prompt responses to requests for information will make their day and probably <br />help to give the story a more positive slant. <br />Reporters need as much detail as possible, good photos, and simple drawings. Television crews <br />need visual confirmation that you exist and will not hesitate to drag a camera and several <br />technicians into your cubicle if needed. Their needs are very different. Anticipate both sets of <br />needs. Be as concise, clear and factual as possible. <br />When interviewed by any media, remember that the reporter does not expect you to have every <br />answer at your fingertips. 1 don't know the answer to that question, but I'll find out and get right <br />Local and Road Improvement Districts Manual for Washington State Sixth Edition 7 <br />