An ongoing, effective citizen education program is inherent to the mission of the Maine Municipal Association and is one of the best ways the organization can serve as an advocate for local governments in Maine.
While citizen participation is vital to democracy, it is not enough to simply invite participation. It is necessary to first educate citizens to provide them with the ability to understand the structure, workings and benefits of local government, and to help them realize their role in local government.
Perhaps most important, as we educate, we must also create a sense of ownership. Citizens must recognize that their local government is an extension of themselves.
Through education efforts such as the one you’re currently viewing online – and others – citizens are both empowered to participate, and enabled to do so in a way that is constructive.
Some municipal leaders have asked MMA to provide a “tool kit” that they can use when citizens ask fundamental questions about municipal government. We are beginning to do so.
Maine Municipal Literacy Project
Click here for details
Douglas M. Eugley Scholarship for Public Service
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Middle School Essay Contest
For 7th Grade students around the state, this contest asks students to demonstrate their understanding of municipal government by writing an essay entitled "If I Led My Community. . .".
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Publications
A Citizen's Guide to Town Meeting, the most common form of municipal government in Maine.