A new online tool, developed by Metro, will help engage more citizens across the region and gather public opinion to inform policymaking decisions. The tool is called Opt In, and the goal is to create a timely and cost-effective way for the region’s residents to provide input into decisions affecting them and their communities. Opt In seeks to engage a broad and diverse range of individuals throughout our region, including populations who are not always engaged through other forms of public outreach. Opt In uses an effective model used by many private-sector companies to more efficiently gather input and inform decisions.

Partners – The Opt In panel is hosted by DHM Research, a Portland-based consulting firm with extensive experience in public opinion research. Opt In was developed in partnership with the United Way of the Columbia-Willamette, the Northwest Health Foundation, and Portland State University’s College of Urban and Public Affairs, respected community organizations that are committed to improving the health, well-being and quality of life in our region.

How it works – Participation is free. When signing up, participants are asked a series of demographic questions which take about five minutes to answer. Because the data is hosted by DHM Research, individual information will be kept confidential. Demographic and opinion information submitted through Opt In will be reported to Metro in the aggregate. Panelists will be asked to participate in two to three short online surveys each month.

What’s in it for you? — Our goal is to have at least 10,000 participants signed up by the end of May (and the more, the merrier). All participants will have access to the results of Opt In surveys and will be able to see how their input is being used. Those who sign up by Feb. 15 are eligible to win one of five $100 gift certificates to Powell’s Books and will be eligible for monthly drawings after that for other incentives. We welcome input on suggested survey topics and questions.

You are invited to sign up and participate. Please share this information with your neighbors and friends and encourage them to visit www.oregonmetro.gov/connect to sign up.