Benton Harbor Mayor Requests

Citizen Participation

February 5, 2005

Mayor Wilce L. Cooke announced the formation of the Mayor’s Citizen Advisory Council which will include 14 committees of 4 to 11 residents serving on each committee with an executive committee consisting of the committee chairmen. Mayor Cooke campaigned on uniting the community and listening closely to the residents of Benton Harbor; this council is the beginning of his initiatives to include more citizens in the decision making process for Benton Harbor government.

The Mayor’s Citizen Advisory Council is being implemented to provide for greater citizen participation in the legislative process and growth of our great city. Citizens will be addressing many quality of life issues as groups on various council committees. Receiving citizen input and sharing information on an ongoing basis will improve our overall communication with residents. This council will provide an opportunity to receive opinions and understand concerns of the community, which is a top priority of this leadership.

Participation on the committees is open to all residents of Benton Harbor. There are some committees which will also include youth participation. Committee members will have an opportunity to work with city officials and area organizations to develop and present the best of Benton Harbor. The services and programs being initiated through these committees will range from community beautification to youth civic responsibility. The Mayor’s Citizen Advisory Council will acquaint us with our neighbors in a new and positive way.

The following advisory committees are:

• Economic Development Advisory Committee

• Housing Development Advisory Committee

• Education and Health Advisory Committee

• Police Community Relations Advisory Committee

• Recreation Arts & Culture Advisory Committee

• Community Relations/Communications Advisory Committee

• Ministerial Support Advisory Committee

• Block Club Advisory Committee

• Youth Awareness Advisory Committee

• Senior Citizens Advisory Committee

• Benton Harbor Beautification Advisory Committee

• Benton Harbor Historical Advisory Committee

• Mayor’s Ambassadors

Appointment of committee chairman and committee members has already started and residents are encouraged to contact the Mayor’s Office in City Hall to sign up for committee membership. To sign up or for more information, please call (269)927-8404 or (269)927-8405.