Let’s Take a Tour

A tradition I carried on during my tenure as a township manager was hosting a yearly tour of the township. This may not sound exciting at first, but it offered meaningful benefits for both residents and local government. These tours provide a valuable opportunity to improve transparency, strengthen community relationships, and build civic pride. A stop at the local diner provides interaction with some of the residents to spread the word that the leaders of the community are genuinely concerned.

One of the most important benefits is increased transparency. Local government processes can often feel distant or unclear, leaving residents unsure how decisions are made. A guided tour led by the township manager helps explain how budgeting, infrastructure projects, and public services actually work. Seeing road maintenance sites, public works facilities, or park improvements in person gives residents a clearer understanding of how their tax dollars are used. This openness builds trust, which is essential for effective governance.

The tour also encourages stronger community engagement. Unlike formal public meetings, which can feel structured or intimidating, a tour creates a more relaxed setting for conversation. Residents can ask questions, share concerns, and offer suggestions while visiting the locations being discussed. This real-time interaction helps people feel heard and involved, fostering a stronger connection between the community and its leadership.

Another key advantage is education. Many residents are unaware of the wide range of services their township provides. From maintaining infrastructure to supporting emergency services and recreational programs, the scope of local government is broader than people often realize. A yearly tour showcases these services in action, helping residents better appreciate their importance. This increased awareness can lead to greater civic involvement, whether through attending meetings, volunteering, or staying informed on local issues.

The tour also serves as a platform for accountability and progress updates. Over the course of a year, townships complete various projects—some highly visible, others less noticeable. The tour allows the township manager to highlight completed work, ongoing initiatives, and future plans. Visiting upgraded roads, improved facilities, or revitalized community spaces gives residents tangible evidence of progress. At the same time, discussing challenges openly demonstrates honesty and accountability.

Economic development can also benefit from these tours. By inviting local business owners and stakeholders, the township can showcase its strengths and growth potential. Highlighting commercial areas, infrastructure improvements, and available land can attract investment and partnerships. The township manager can clearly communicate a vision for future growth, helping stakeholders see opportunities for involvement.

In addition, the tour helps build a stronger sense of community identity. Residents often stick to their own neighborhoods and may not be familiar with other parts of the township. Exploring different areas during the tour fosters a deeper connection to the community as a whole. Learning about local improvements and future plans can inspire pride and create a shared sense of purpose among participants.

The event also provides an opportunity to recognize township staff. Public employees work behind the scenes to maintain services and infrastructure, but their efforts often go unnoticed. Introducing staff members during the tour helps humanize local government and shows residents the people responsible for keeping the township running smoothly. This recognition can improve morale and strengthen mutual respect.

From a leadership standpoint, hosting a yearly tour demonstrates proactive communication. Instead of waiting for questions or concerns, the township manager takes the initiative to share information and invite dialogue. This approach builds credibility and shows that leadership is accessible and engaged.

Finally, making the tour an annual event creates continuity. Residents can track changes over time, observe progress, and build an ongoing relationship with township leadership. This consistency reinforces the idea that local government is always evolving to meet community needs.

“Fire this thing up,” as a yearly township tour offers far more than a simple overview. It promotes transparency, encourages engagement, educates residents, and builds community pride. By opening the doors to local government, the township helps create a more informed, connected, and trusting community.

---

About the Author

David L. Anthony is a member of the Keystone Municipal Solutions team of experts. He is a veteran of municipal government, having served more than 33 years in various positions of public service. Contact him at david@keystonemunicipalsolutions.com. To learn more about David and the Keystone Municipal Solutions team, click here.