Municipality and Citizens to Join Forces

Vilnius Mayor Mr. Arturas Zuokas rejoiced the co-operation of local government and citizens that has become increasingly notable in the city this year. According to the last survey, today up to 96% Vilnites have growing awareness of the projects implemented in the city. This high rate proves that Vilnius citizens take interest both in their city and in the possibilities to influence the processes here. For example, after long discussions with regard to formation of a golf course in Pilaite district, on the account of the opinion of inhabitants, Vilnius City Council made a compromising decision to draft a new project for a smaller course. It will ensure the maximum preservation of greenery and at the same time allowing the dwellers a closer look at the course. In this way, the benefits of society, city and business are conciliated.

A crucial focus has been given to hearing various and different opinions. When drafting the Strategic Plan for Vilnius, after having decided activity priorities, the question of their implementation was directed to the experts of each field, aiming at their assistance. For instance, the debates on the increase of international competitiveness took place with the participation of political reviewers, representatives of the tourism sector, restaurants and hotel business, artists and the specialists of public relations. The opinion of Vilnius-based foreigners was also considered. To hear all the opinions, a variety of brainstorming was selected, which eventually evolved into a 'business breakfast' genre. Early in the mornings, the specialists of one field gather for a cup of coffee and voice their opinions regarding the issue under discussion. In this way business people and citizens get involved in decision-making.

These are few examples of how the initiative of citizens and the representatives of business, culture and other spheres to co-operate in decision-making is encouraged in Vilnius. Despite the law-provided official decision-making procedure, the city chooses original ways that have proved to be efficient.