As organizations funded by the public, it is critical that we secure and maintain the confidence of the public. A public relations program is one of the most effective ways to gain public understanding and appreciation. Combined with good programing and quality facilities, good public relations is the key to getting and keeping a positive reputation in your community. Public relations comes in many forms. It can be as simple as inviting your legislators to attend a special event, to the more complex issue of handling a barrage of media calls after an accident has occurred on park district property.
Commissioners play a major role in an agency's public relations.
Productive public relations means forming relationships, especially with your key publics taxpayers, elected officials, government representatives, community groups, business leaders and, of course, the media. These relationships can be fostered through a variety of means such as forming advisory committees, hosting public hearings, seeking citizen volunteers, effectively handling citizen complaints and practicing sound media relations. As a board member you might on occasion be called upon to make comments to the media. You should not fear the media. Following are a few thoughts to keep in mind when working with the media.