Elections are often considered to be the best — and perhaps only true — avenue for residents to make their voices heard.

Still, the way local governments are structured, residents are typically choosing the person who will make decisions on their behalf, and do not have the chance to share their visions on specific issues or projects.

In Cranberry and Middlesex townships, however, government officials are doing their part to give a voice and some power to residents in making decisions that will have both immediate and long-term impacts.

Last week, Cranberry Township supervisors appointed 11 members to serve on an ad hoc Environmental Advisory Committee. The committee stemmed from a series of public hearings on planned residential developments in which dozens of residents shared concerns about the environmental impacts such developments were having in their neighborhoods. Many were well prepared for those meetings, having done research and providing supporting evidence for their concerns.

Frustrated by the PRD process, several asked township officials if a committee could be formed to look at the relationship between future development and the environment. Township officials acted quickly, approving the committee earlier this year and naming members Thursday. A proposal is expected by February.

A similar scenario is playing out in Middlesex Township, where supervisors are seeking members to serve on a committee to help update the township comprehensive plan. That plan will set the course for future development and growth in the township. The roughly 12 residents picked are intended to be a diverse sample of the population, including both newcomers and longtime residents as well as business owners and developers.

In both situations, township officials both elected or otherwise could have chosen to use their own knowledge to formulate plans. Or they simply could have ignored residents’ requests.

Instead, they listened to the concerns and needs of the communities they serve and are attempting to create a stronger working relationship between the community and government.

Undoubtedly, committees and groups such as these can experience pitfalls. Depending on the topic at hand, finding willing volunteers can be a challenge. Further still, finding residents who are not only passionate, but also bring something new to the table, is easier said than done.

But in these instances, residents have already shown they intend to do the necessary legwork, and they plan on finding real, meaningful solutions to the challenges facing their communities. Those volunteering their time don’t see their service as a chance to brag about giving back to their community or a line item for a resume. Instead, they see an opportunity to make their community better, both for themselves and their neighbors.

We commend not only the volunteers sitting on these committees, but also township officials for listening to the people when concerns were raised. It is, after all, the job they were elected to do.

— JWJ