Serving Your Community: Public Office in PCG
Participatory Collaborative Governance (PCG) reimagines public office as an act of service, not a pursuit of power. Serving in public office is a shared responsibility, carefully designed to respect your personal and professional life while ensuring fairness and inclusivity.
In PCG, public officials are facilitators, not rulers. They implement the will of the people, ensure smooth governance, and advocate for their communities. By stepping into these roles, citizens contribute directly to a system that values collaboration and empowerment.
- Random Selection Pool: Similar to jury duty, eligible citizens are randomly selected to form a pool of candidates. This ensures diversity and prevents career politicians from dominating the system.
- Screening and Vetting: Candidates are screened for eligibility and provided with training to prepare them for public service.
- Rank-Choice Voting: The community elects its representatives from the vetted pool, ensuring broad support and accountability.
- Fair Compensation: Public officials receive a salary aligned with their prior income, with reasonable caps to balance fairness and public resources. For higher earners, non-monetary benefits such as childcare, housing, or tax exemptions may supplement their compensation.
- Job Security: Your job is legally protected during your term, ensuring you can return to it without penalty. Business owners and self-employed individuals are provided with administrative and financial support to maintain their operations.
- Transition Assistance: Flexible roles (such as part-time positions or shared responsibilities) minimize disruption to your career. Resources are available to help you transition back to your work or business after your term ends.
- Voluntary Exemptions: If circumstances make public service impractical, you can apply for an exemption, though service is encouraged as a shared civic duty.
- What happens to my job or business if I’m selected? Your job is protected by law, and business owners receive additional support to maintain operations during their term.
- Will I be forced to serve? Service is a civic duty, but exemptions are available for those with significant personal or professional conflicts.
- How will I be paid? Public officials are compensated based on their prior income, ensuring they’re not financially disadvantaged.
- What happens after my term ends? Resources are provided to help you transition smoothly back into your career or personal life.