Welcome to the National Dialogue

[Bob Carlitz <bob@info-ren.org>]

Welcome to the National Dialogue on Public Involvement in EPA Decisions. 

For the next two weeks you will have an opportunity to discuss the EPA's
draft Public Involvement Policy with EPA staffers, invited panelists
and numerous participating stakeholders.

Our discussion will move quickly for topic to topic, as described
on the agenda page 
   http://www.info-ren.org/network-democracy/epa-pip/join/agenda.shtml
Please consult this page regularly to keep abreast of upcoming
topics.

Today's topic will deal with personal introductions and a discussion
of suitable goals for the EPA's Public Involvement Policy.

1. In your first posting to the group please tell us something about 
your prior experience with the EPA or at the state or local level.
Let us know why you have chosen to participate in this event and
what you hope to accomplish in the process.

2. Last December 28th, EPA issued a draft Public Involvement Policy
that updated the Agency's 20-year old Public Participation Policy.
EPA plans to issue its Final Public Involvement Policy early next
year. In the meantime, the Agency is working on how to implement this
new policy. The draft policy lists goals and objectives for public
involvement. Please comment on the completeness of these goals.

If you are unfamiliar with the draft Public Involvement Policy or
with any of issues that come up in the online discussion, remember
that our Briefing Book contains a large number of references and
background materials.  Of course if you don't see what you're 
looking for, never hesitate to ask.  We have many knowledgeable
and interested people who may be able to help out.

Thanks to all of you for participating.

Bob Carlitz, Moderator
Information Renaissance