-
We
will respect beginning and ending times unless there is
agreement to extend.
-
The
facilitator's role is to help everyone's voice be heard
and to keep the meeting productive. All contributions are
welcome. In
some cases, priority will be given to members of the
Planning Studio, but all members of the public who attend a
meeting will be invited to share their input and concerns.
-
Raise
your hand to speak. The facilitator will usually try to call
on people in the order in which they raise their hands, but
may alter that based on who has not spoken recently or to
follow a thread.
-
Silence
is assumed to mean agreement; the facilitator will try to
interpret your body language, but you should try to speak up
if you are uncomfortable with the direction of the
discussion.
-
Aim
for balanced participation: Push yourself to participate in
discussions if you normally are a "quiet" person, and
push yourself to limit your contribution in order to make
space for others if you normally talk a lot.
-
The
facilitator may interrupt people if she perceives them to be
repeating themselves.
-
Look
for common ground; assume there is likely to be a win-win
solution to any conflict. We'll use consensus to reach
decisions whenever possible.
Where interests clearly conflict after attempts to
find common ground, either the issue will be tabled or a
2/3-majority vote will be used if a decision is required.
-
Treat
each other with respect. Listen with interest and use active
listening skills. Emotional expression in the meeting is OK;
aggression is not.
-
Keep
side conversations to those absolutely necessary. Silence
cell phones or turn to vibrate only. Leave the room to
answer calls.
-
No
personal attacks. Argue about ideas, not personalities.
-
Humor
and fun are encouraged as long as they are not at anyone's
expense.
- If
you're confused about what's happening, ask.
Process suggestions from group members are always
welcome. If
we're undecided about what to do next, the facilitator
will make the call.
