Our Vision
We envision collaborative governance that empowers all stakeholders—residents, community organizations, businesses, and city government—to shape local policies, budgets, and outcomes.
Candidate Conversation about Collaborative Governance
Please Join Us!
The Coalition for Collaborate Governance is hosting a public candidate forum for Lawrence, KS School Board and City Commission candidates.
The focus of this candidate forum will be community involvement in local governmental decision making and the community's relationships with our elected officials. More details to come!
Wednesday, Oct 1 from 6:00 - 7:30pm at the Lawrence Public Library auditorium
City of Lawrence Budget
Budget Analysis, Engagement, and Advocacy
To facilitate greater understanding and transparency regarding the City’s 2026 Budget, our coalition:
Conducted an independent analysis of the City’s current and proposed budgets.
Published reports and articles to educate the community about the City budget.
Asked the City for increased transparency and public engagement regarding their budget.
Hosted A Community Conversation about the City Budget.
Produced our own community engagement survey to capture the public’s opinions about the City budget.
Presented before the Commission about their proposed 2026 Capital Improvement Plan, budget, and Parks & Rec fees.
Petition to Empower Lawrence Voices
The Coalition for Collaborative Governance requests that the City of Lawrence:
Collaboratively engage with our community to drive their decision-making.
Transparently provide complete and easy-to-access information.
Be accountable to our community in their actions and practices.
Our Goals
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Develop more collaborative relationships between our local government and its residents.
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Identify recurrent challenges and successful practices in local governmental processes.
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Promote solutions to make our local government’s cultures, policies, and practices more transparent, collaborative, and accountable.