Increasing Accessibility Through Narrative:
Cambridge City Council Notes
Project Brief: As the Legislative Aide to the Vice Mayor of Cambridge, I prepare simplified notes of the weekly council meeting. The goal of these notes is to increase the accessibility of council meetings by breaking down every agenda item, appropriation request, and vote so residents can easily stay informed about what their elected officials are advocating for without having to watch an entire meeting or decipher political jargon.
Synthesized Information
We know the average resident doesn’t have the time to watch a 3+ hour council meeting. What they need is a brief summary of what’s going on, how their elected officials are voting, and what’s coming down the pipeline. Council notes are the answer to truly meeting people where they are.
Attached Meaning
By adding narrative to the policies and appropriations that are passed at each meeting, residents have a better idea of why the council is doing something, rather than being left in the dark. Narrative brings the policy home to them.
Accessible Information
Yes, many City resources are available online, however, many residents don’t even know where to begin looking for information. Council notes help simplify the search process for many of the most vulnerable residents who need crucial information, but don’t always know where to find it.