The holiday season is a time of celebration, reflection and togetherness — but it’s also a time of increased activity in the community.
For PIOs, this season offers a unique opportunity to engage with community members and ensure residents are informed, prepared and connected.
PIOs can use social media, email newsletters and press releases to ensure these messages are reaching as many community members as possible.
Communicate Public Services and Operations
- Trash and Recycling Schedule Changes: Share reminders about holiday pickup delays and special recycling opportunities for items like Christmas trees.
- Holiday Hours and Office Closures: Clearly outline dates and times for closure of town offices, senior centers and other municipal buildings.
Public Safety Concerns
During the holiday season, a large priority for PIO’s in law enforcement, fire services and public works is addressing public safety concerns.
- Winter Weather Preparedness: Inform the public about snow removal, parking bans and emergency warming centers.
- Fire Safety: Promote reminders about safe holiday decorating practices, cooking safety, space heaters safety and checking smoke alarms.
- Traffic and Pedestrian Safety: Share information about road closures for holiday events, increased sobriety checkpoints and safe travel tips.
- Utilities and Infrastructure: Share information about seasonal water and sewer maintenance projects that may be impacted by severe weather.
It’s important to highlight the “good” happening in the community — PIOs can spotlight local charities by partnering with nonprofits/food pantries to promote holiday donation drives and community volunteering opportunities.
These efforts not only spread holiday cheer but also strengthen the relationship between residents and their local government.
At Capital Strategic Solutions, our team of municipal experts is ready to be your workforce on wheels. We have experienced PIOs who can provide interim or full-time PIO support services, on-call PIO services as well as executive coaching in crisis communications, media relations and building trust with their community through effective communication.
For more information about our PIO services, email us at [email protected].