In a recent work session held at Lakeville City Hall, council members engaged in a thoughtful discussion on enhancing communication strategies during crises. The meeting, which took place on June 23, 2025, focused on lessons learned from past incidents and the importance of effective messaging to residents and the media.

One council member highlighted the need for a centralized communication hub, emphasizing the importance of setting up a crisis communications inbox. This would streamline inquiries from the media and the public, allowing city staff to manage responses more efficiently. "Everything comes to that one inbox," the member explained, underscoring the necessity of having pre-approved responses ready for rapid dissemination.

The conversation also touched on the role of council members during media inquiries. It was noted that during crises, media often seeks comments from multiple sources, which can lead to confusion. Council members were encouraged to forward inquiries to the designated communications department rather than making statements without complete information. This approach aims to maintain consistency and accuracy in messaging, which is crucial during high-pressure situations.

The council discussed the importance of designating clear spokespersons for various scenarios, such as natural disasters or public safety incidents. This ensures that the right individuals are communicating the right messages, thereby fostering trust and clarity among residents. "Setting up press conferences with one or multiple spokespersons determined by the situation is key," one member stated.

Another critical point raised was the need for a robust web presence. The council recognized that misinformation can spread quickly, and having a clean, focused website is essential for providing accurate updates. Members were reminded to avoid scheduling social media posts that could inadvertently confuse the public during a crisis.

As the meeting concluded, the council members expressed a commitment to improving their communication strategies, ensuring that they are better prepared for future incidents. By learning from past experiences and implementing these new strategies, Lakeville aims to enhance its responsiveness and maintain the trust of its residents in times of need.