The Civic Canon
If you only read ten things, read these.
Curated by the editorial team. The shortest path from new neighbour to first hearing.
The Canon is not an algorithm. It is an editorial decision about what holds up under reading, printing, and revisiting. Order matters: start at the top, work down at your own pace.
- 1
Civic Brief
One-page situation summary.
3 min - 2
Public Hearing Handbook
How a hearing actually works, and how to be heard.
22 min - 3
Rezoning Handbook
From posted sign to second reading.
30 min - 4
Hearing Packet
What to hand a commissioner.
5 min - 5
Public Records Handbook
Ask the right office, in the right words.
18 min - 6
Research a Project
Build a file before the file builds you.
28 min - 7
Understanding Local Government
Who decides what, and why it matters.
16 min - 8
Attending Your First Hearing
Where to sit, when to sign up, how to leave with notes.
5 min - 9
Reading a Staff Report
The first three pages tell you almost everything.
8 min - 10
Most Important
If you only read five things, read these.
2 min