Different approaches to Civic Engagement

[m74reeves]

I live how some cities are reaching out to the public to solve different community problems:

San Franscisco has applications out for an "Entrepreneur in Residence" program. It is seeking tech-based "entrepreneurial products or services should drive significant impact such as increased revenue, enhanced productivity or meaningful cost savings." This program will "offer each selected team mentorship from senior public leaders across the Mayor's office and San Francisco departments and from entrepreneurial and private sector leaders in addition to product development and ramp up support."

See more here: http://entrepreneur.sfgov.org/

On the other end of the dollar spectrum, this article shows how cities such as st. louis, youngstown, and new orleans are holding contests to deal with vacant lots. Some of the winners include a sunflower project (great youtube here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fEU5q9MALIA&feature=youtu.be ), putting green, sustainable agriculture demonstration, pop-up restuarant with cargo containers, a chess pocket park, etc.

http://progress.communityprogress.net/features/09052013img.aspx

Of course, one of my favorites (kids, don't try this at home), the guy in Mississippi that stole asphalt from the City of Jackson and fixed various potholes himself. Love it.

http://abcnews.go.com/US/pothole-robin-hood-steals-asphalt-fixes-potholes/story?id=19625675

Would our fair city go as far as to try any of these approaches?