1. Purpose 

A Citizen Engagement Program (CEP) is established to help town leadership understand community needs and allow local residents and town officials to interact with each other in a productive way. The program creates an opportunity for residents to provide input and recommendations to a town government on specific issues, such as budget, policy, or programs while also gaining a better understanding of the decision-making process and how their local unit of government operates. 

2. Program Structure 

Program meetings will be facilitated by Town of Omro elected and/or appointed officials, and occasionally outside subject matter experts when appropriate based on discussion topics. Meetings will be subject to all requirements set forth by Wisconsin Open Meetings Law. Program communications, notices and associated records will be managed by the town clerk.  

Program will consist of group of up to 15 participants, each appointed to one-year terms. Whenever possible, the composition of the CEP group in any given year shall consist of three residents from each of five different age groups - 16 to 25 years old; 26 to 35 years old; 36 to 50 years old; 51 to 65 years old; and 66 years and older. 

3. Meetings Schedule and Expectations 

4. Appointment of Participants 

Town residents are invited to apply to the program. Desired participants are those who are not otherwise involved in Town of Omro governing or operations. Application deadline will be January 5 to allow for review and recommendations at the January Town Board Meeting. Appointment of CEP members will take place at the January town board meeting. 

As needed, additional appointments can be made throughout the year to fill unexpected vacancies and/or to fill the roster. 

Whenever possible, the makeup of the CEP shall consist of residents from a variety of residential settings to represent the diverse geographical areas of the town, and will consist of three residents from each of the following age groups.