The promise and pitfalls of early project notification meetings; illuminating Santa Ana's sunshine ordinance

Abstract

Despite the promise that early public participation could enhance transparency and information access, little is known about which public engagement processes and techniques are most effective at the initial stages of plan development and whether development notification meetings enhance inclusion for impacted residents. Responding to these uncertainties, we analyzed the promise and potential pitfalls of early public notification meetings by reviewing posted development information and interviewing resident leaders and planners involved in the City of Santa Ana's Sunshine Ordinance development notification meetings for proposed residential and mixed-use projects. Findings confirmed early notification increased access to information and created a more transparent process, but indicated the lack of inclusive practices generated community distrust and opposition and spurred residents to take insurgent actions when meetings offered few specifics and limited collaboration. Findings inform efforts of local jurisdictions and advocates seeking to establish or improve early participation initiatives.