Engaging with Local Decision-Makers: A Toolkit for Communities Seeking Improved Water, Sanitation, and Other Municipal Services

Everyone needs basic municipal services, ranging from water to garbage and sewage removal. But these services are not equitably distributed. The purpose of this toolkit is to help residents advocate for the services they need and deserve. It explains a key process by which local governments make decisions about the allocation of public services and the ways in which residents can participate to voice their concerns and urge for changes in their communities. Community participation ensures decisionmakers see a neighborhood’s needs and invest time and money into improving those neighborhoods. This guide empowers residents to make changes in their communities and stay involved in processes that impact their lives.