Inclusion and Trust in Community-Engaged Scholarship: A Case Study of a County Visioning Project

Abstract

In recent decades, local governments have sought to increase community engagement in collaborative governance processes, such as community visioning and strategic planning, to develop policies that are inclusive and supportive of those who live in the community. A key component of the community visioning process is the inclusion of diverse community members and stakeholders which can enhance the effectiveness and legitimacy of the process in addition to providing an opportunity for civic engagement. We review how trust was an essential component required for developing strong community engagement in a community visioning project in Tillamook County, Oregon.