The municipal newsletter is still one of the best ways to reach every resident, including those who don’t follow the city on social media. But it has to be read. Here are seven ways to make it useful and enjoyable.
1. Lead with what affects residents
Collections, roadwork, recreation sign-ups, key dates: put practical information up front, in a box that’s easy to spot.
2. Talk about people
A volunteer, a local business, a sports team: stories about neighbours make people turn the page and strengthen the sense of belonging.
3. Keep it short and clear
Simple sentences, subheadings and lists make the newsletter accessible to everyone. Long administrative texts can point to the city’s website.
4. Design for every age
Large print, good contrast and an airy layout help everyone, especially seniors. It’s also a great way to put an age-friendly municipality approach into practice.
5. Choose a professional layout
A polished layout in the municipality’s colours builds trust and makes people want to read. It also saves the team from spending evenings putting the document together themselves.
6. Offer a digital version
An online version that’s easy to share reaches residents where they are and can be posted on the city’s website and social media.
7. Keep a steady rhythm
Monthly, quarterly or seasonal: consistency is what matters. Residents get used to looking forward to it and keeping it.
In closing
A good municipal newsletter informs, brings people together and gives the municipality a positive image. With a partner handling the layout and the digital version, your team can focus on the content.
