Stay ConnectedEngagingCommunities is the official podcast of the APA Community Engagement Interest Group, which shares outstanding work by our network of planners and changemakers, who actively involve their communities in creating better places and a brighter future. Host Kelly Hickler talks to leaders who are paving the way in civic engagement and shares strategies you can implement in your own community.
Hosted by Kelly Hickler, AICP
Sponsored by Konveio
Copyright: © 2025 Konveio LLC
Carlo Tomaino, the City Manager of Signal Hill, California, discusses the successful initiative to achieve zero functional homelessness in the city by coordinating internal efforts and partnering with service providers. Though we spoke with Carlo prior to the June 28, 2024 Supreme Court ruling on City of Grants Pass, Oregon v. Johnson, our conversation highlights how the City of Signal Hill’s compassionate approach is relevant regardless of any court ruling. We also discuss the previous court case of Martin v. Boise and its implications for cities.
Links and Contact Information
Learn more about the City of Signal Hill’s Homeless Services at https://www.cityofsignalhill.org/447/Homeless-Services
Carlo Tomaino: ctomaino@cityofsignalhill.org
James Rojas and John Kamp talk about engaging people through their hands and senses for the Yolo County Active Transportation Corridors Plan (YATC) which aims to create multi-use trails, enhance mobility, and break down barriers for low-income and minority residents in this rural California community. The project leverages public interest design of transportation services to address the needs of the region's most isolated and disadvantaged areas.
Contact Information
Further Reading
Their book “Dream Play Build” delves into the psychology behind their engaging methods and provides a deeper understanding of how playful approaches can transform urban planning processes. Available in paperback and E-book formats at https://islandpress.org/books/dream-play-build.
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