Maple Ridge is committed to an Open Government philosophy, emphasizing transparency, accountability, and public engagement through the provision of extensive municipal data, interactive maps, and detailed performance reporting. By enabling easy access to a wealth of information, the approach fosters a collaborative and trusting environment. Additionally, the City supports the public's right to know by facilitating Freedom of Information requests, balancing transparency with privacy protection. This comprehensive approach aims to improve governance, enhance community participation, and build a stronger, more informed Maple Ridge.
The City's principles of Open Government are to:
- Increase citizen's access to information.
- Increase citizen participation, engagement and collaboration in community issues.
- Increase transparency and accountability of actions.
To deliver on these principles the City provides a municipal data catalogue and maps available to the public for analysis and download. The intent is to empower the use of City data to develop innovative, local solutions complex community issues. Our transparency with data extends to Council whereby governance decisions are made accessible to the public through the publication of meeting agendas, minutes, and video recordings. As these decisions impact municipal operations, a set of Performance Reports are published to highlight how the City and community are advancing. Additional municipal information can also be accessed through Freedom of Information requests.
The City fosters public participation and facilitates two-way dialogue with the community through the Engage Maple Ridge platform. It aims to gather information and feedback from the public on various matters, including the allocation of taxpayer dollars and community growth strategies. The platform provides residents with an accessible online space for engaging with city initiatives, offering feedback, and connecting with staff and neighbors on projects of interest.