How does On the Table work?
On the Table is a city-wide conversation that helps us get to know each other better and discuss what is and isn’t working in Lexington.
From April 10th to April 16th, thousands of residents across Lexington will gather in homes, businesses, libraries, and parks to discuss the present and future of our city.
In addition to gathering and talking, all participants will complete a survey about the future of Lexington and how our city is growing and changing. This data will be used to shape Lexington’s most important long-range planning document - the Comprehensive Plan.
Step 1: Decide how you want to particpate
Decide if you want to host a table or attend a table.
Hosting just means gathering a few friends, family, or neighbors to chat. Attending means showing up to a table ready to engage!
Step 2: Register
Once you've decided which you want to do, register here.
The process only takes about 5 minutes.
Step 3: Gather your materials
One week out, we'll send you the materials you need to either host a conversation or join one of the many public tables.
If you can't print them yourself or use the digital versions, we'll have copies at each Public Library location around Lexington.
Step 4a: Prepare to host
If you are hosting, make sure to get your invite list together and have space reserved. Food and refreshments are optional - but everyone loves a snack!
A week or two out is also a good time for you to make a final decision about how you want to gather (in person or virtual, indoor or outdoor), and to notify your participants about that call.
Step 4b: Prepare to attend
If you are joining a public table, make sure to check out what tables are open to the public.
We will be launching a “Find a Table” database in early March - sign up to get an update about that here.
Once you’re at the table…
Step 5: The Survey
You'll start by filling out a survey.
In it, we’ll ask you six questions about how Lexington is growing and changing. We’ll also ask you a couple questions about yourself.
Step 6: The Conversation
After the survey, you'll have a conversation about your responses.
Where do you find common ground with others at the table? What can you learn from the people you are with?
Remember to be kind!
When you're in your table conversation, remember that this is a space for dialogue, not debate.
Speak only for yourself and listen to others. If someone says they have experienced something, believe them.
Step 7: One last question
After the table conversation, you’ll be asked to fill out one more survey question.
Take a moment to consider: did hearing from your neighbors change how you think at all?
After On the Table…
Step 8: We process the data
After all the On the Table conversations happen, we’ll gather and process all the survey responses.
These results will be shared with our City Government to create the 2023 Comprehensive Plan!
Step 9: Following up
In the weeks after On the Table, we’ll anonymize the data and release it to the public.
Alongside the data, we’ll send everyone that participated a brief report outlining what residents think of growth and change in Lexington.
Step 10: Lexington’s updated Comprehensive Plan
In 2023, the City of Lexington will adopt a new Comprehensive Plan reflecting the input of thousands of residents that participated in On the Table!
Remember…
On the Table is an exercise in local Democracy. We have to show up to have our voices heard!