| From the Port Townsend Jefferson County Leader - January 19, 2000 © Port Townsend Leader |
The eight participants were selected using a computer program that randomly chose their phone numbers. In the event of more than one adult residing at the residence, a coin toss was used. Future wisdom councils would be composed of 16 residents randomly selected through voter registration roles, and they would meet for one and a half days.
Jim Rough, Port Townsend resident and teacher of "dynamic facilitation" skills, will facilitate, assuring that the conversation is enjoyable, meaningful and creative, and helping the participants reach statements of consensus.
The City Council has officially acknowledged this event by suggesting a topic and assuring that the wisdom council process will be explored more deeply at its Feb. 14 meeting. The topic suggested by the City Council is: What to do about chain stores that are starting to locate in or near Port Townsend, the controversy this is causing, and the perceived threat to the community. Symbolizing "the people," the wisdom council will consider whatever topics members feel are important.
For more information visit Rough's Web site at www.WiseDemocracy.org or watch the Jim Rough Show on PTTV at 6:30 p.m. Sundays.
(© Port Townsend Jefferson County Leader - January 19, 2000)