USAID LOCAL EFFECTIVE GOVERNANCE ACTIVITY
QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORT October 1, 2019 – December 31, 2019
CONTRACT NO. 7201678C00001
SUBMISSION JANUARY 21, 2020 APPROVED JANUARY 28, 2020
This publication is made possible by the support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents of this publication are the sole responsibility of the International City/County Management Association and do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government. USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
This page intentionally left blank for double-sided printing.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity
QUARTERLY PERFORMANCE REPORT
CONTRACT NO. 7201678C00001
Program Title: USAID Local Effective Governance Activity
Sponsoring USAID Office: USAID/Kosovo
Contract Number: 72016718C00001
Contractor: International City/County Management Association
Date of Publication: January 21, 2019 Approved: January 28, 2020
The author’s views expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of the United States Agency for International Development or the United States Government.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
ACRONYMS
AKM Association of Kosovo Municipalities AKT Advancing Kosovo Together AWP Annual Work Plan CLA Collaborating, Learning and Adapting CSC Citizen Service Center CSO Civil Society Organizations CYAC Central Youth Action Council DRC Danish Refugee Council GEAP Gender Equality Action Plans GRB Gender Responsive Budgeting ICMA International City/County Management Association IMAWP Integrated Municipal Annual Work Plan ICA Inter-Municipal Cooperation Agreement IWG Informal Women’s Group LED Local Economic Development LEGA Local Effective Governance Activity LEPY Law on Empowerment and Participation of Youth LG Local Governments LLSG Law on Local Self-Governance LYAC Local Youth Action Council MA Municipal Assembly MACC Municipal Assembly Communities Committee MAPT Municipal Action Plan for Transparency MCR Ministry for Communities and Returns MELP Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning Plan MLGA Ministry of Local Government and Administration MOCR Municipal Officer for Communities and Return MOF Ministry of Finance MPA Ministry of Public Administration NDI National Democratic Institute NGO Non-Governmental Organization NSMM Northern Serb Majority Municipalities MACC Municipal Assembly of Communities Committee OJT On-the-Job Training OLC Office of the Language Commissioner PG Performance Grants PIO Public Information Office or Officer PYD Positive Youth Development RMA Regional Municipal Advisers SDC Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (DEMOS) SMM Serb Majority Municipalities
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
SIAP Service Improvement Action Plan TEAM Transparent Effective and Accountable Municipalities project UNMIK United Nations Mission in Kosovo USAID United States Agency for International Development VC Village Councils
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACRONYMS 3 1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY 6 2. PROGRAM BACKGROUND 8 3 ACTIVITY MANAGEMENT AND ACHIEVEMENTS 9 1.1 Strengthen local municipal governments and administration to improve service provision to both majority and non-majority communities. 9 1.2 Improving the ability of municipalities to articulate their municipal needs to the central-level government 11 1.3 Strengthen municipal transparency and outreach to all citizens 11 1.4 Strengthen the central-level capacities in outreach and governance to better support municipalities in addressing needs of the non-majority communities and improve municipal service delivery 12 1.5 Facilitate linkages between municipalities 12 2.1 Increase interaction between majority and non-majority communities in joint priority setting 14 2.2 Empower all communities to engage with the municipalities and hold them more accountable. 18 4 SUPPORT FUNDS AND GRANTS UNDER CONTRACT 19 5 COLLABORATING, LEARNING AND ADAPTING (CLA) 21 6 COOPERATION AND COORDINATION WITH USAID AND OTHER DONORS’ PROGRAMS 22 7 COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACH 25
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The Quarterly Performance Report follows the requirement of section F.7.d of the above referenced contract and describes the progress on all Local Effective Governance Activity (LEGA) initiatives during the period of October 1st, 2019 through December 31th, 2019. The Activity’s overall purpose is to strengthen the operations and inclusiveness of municipal governance in municipalities with non-majority communities in Kosovo. LEGA supports 14 municipal governments to improve the inclusiveness, quality, timeliness, transparency, and equity of municipal services. At the same time, LEGA helps non-majority and majority populations together make use of local government representational structures and oversee executive actions. As citizens make use of local services and hold local governments more accountable, local governments will in turn respond to citizens more effectively and equitably, increasing legitimacy of local governments in the eyes of all citizens. Some of the key programmatic accomplishments during the quarter include the following: • LEGA strengthened local municipal governments and administration to improve service provision to both majority and non-majority communities by concluding the process of analyzing findings of the municipal self-assessment in Štrpce/Shtërpcë, Gračanica/Graçanicë and Novo Brdo/Novobërdë. Additionally, the results have been processed and the reports were completed. The assessment focuses on three major municipal competencies: budget planning, budget execution and auditing processes, while also looking into project management cycle, human resources etc. The outcome is a list of identified gaps and opportunities for improvement of municipal processes in the respective themes in all three municipalities. • LEGA worked towards institutionalizing public consultation mechanisms and structures by conducting a citizen survey in all 14 municipalities. The survey was intended to analyze feedback on citizens’ perception about municipal governance as well as identify the needs and priorities of citizens in each partner municipality (with special attention to non-majority communities) in terms of municipal service provision. Additionally, the sub-activity facilitated dialogue among municipalities and citizens to address identified issues. The end report of the sub-activity will be prepared and submitted in the next quarter. • In addition, LEGA conducted a thorough review and analysis of municipal Local Economic Development framework including but not limited to municipal plans and strategies (where applicable), and both short and long-term objectives in all partner municipalities. Currently, we are polishing individual reports for each of partner municipalities on their potential for inter-municipal cooperation and improved competitiveness. The sub-activity will be completed in the next quarter. • LEGA supported communities’ ability to monitor the implementation of municipal strategic plans. LEGA trained 20 citizen groups and local CSOs in partner municipalities to monitor the implementation of key municipal strategic documents and develop reports for each target LEGA municipalities with the overview of state of implementation of the mandatory municipal plans and engaged in dialogue session with municipal representatives. • LEGA worked towards increasing inter-ethnic interaction and cooperation. Through specific interventions, LEGA enhanced the understanding of citizen participation mechanisms in Kosovo through direct support to citizen groups to identify and institutionally address issues affecting citizens of different ethnic backgrounds or citizens from different municipalities. Additionally, LEGA contributed to the empowerment of citizen groups to address community issues to relevant authorities. Specific interventions in each sector is described below in the Section 3, Active Management and Achievements
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
Within LEGA’s scope, Support Funds and Grants are tightly linked to activities that contribute to achievement of the project objectives and sub-objectives, through two kinds of grants: targeted grants to directly address a defined priority and competitive, flexible grants to support community initiatives and innovations. In Quarter 1, LEGA signed a grant agreement with Democracy Plus, a local NGO, that aims to enhance understanding of citizen participation mechanisms among citizens in LEGA target municipalities and to increase the ability of local governments to respond to citizen initiatives. Details regarding the Support Funds and the status of implementation for each grant and sub-contractor are presented are presented in the Section 4 of this report As in the Year 1, during the first quarter of Year 2 the donor coordination has been carried out with both USAID-funded programs in relevant programmatic areas and other donors active in the sector. Thus, USAID’s TEAM, EMPOWER, READY, UP to YOUTH, Kosovo Economic Governance Activity and Justice Matters were visited, along with SDC-DEMOS, OSCE, British Embassy, European Union and UN agencies. Details are presented in the Section 6 of the current report. On January 8, 2020, LEGA was notified by USAID Kosovo that LEGA will be terminated due the fact that USAID is updating its approach to more effectively achieve goals in the governance sector. USAID will work diligently to continue to support Kosovo in its journey to self-reliance. Subsequently, throughout this report, the planning for next quarter (January – March 2020) is affected by the closeout plan that will be concluded on March 31, 2020.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
2. PROGRAM BACKGROUND Challenges associated with local government institutions’ inadequate performance and their poor relations with citizens constitute a threat to the democratic development and stability in Kosovo. The governance crisis in Kosovo is directly linked to the durability of corruption, poverty, unemployment, inequality, lack of respect for human rights, and strained relations between ethnic communities. Effective governance reflected in improved relations between local governments and citizens is crucial to achieving a sustainable democracy in Kosovo and securing the country’s European future. USAID Local Effective Governance Activity is a five-year program funded by USAID/Kosovo implemented in 14 selected municipalities. The Activity’s overall purpose is to strengthen the operations and inclusiveness of municipal governance in municipalities with non-majority communities in Kosovo. The 14 partner municipalities are: Gračanica/Graçanicë, Štrpce/Shtërpcë, Novo Brdo/Novobërdë, Klokot/Kllokot, Parteš/Partesh, Ranilug/Ranillug, Istog/Istok, Klinë/Klina, Obiliq/Obilić, Dragash/Dragaš, Severna Mitrovica/Mitrovicë Veriore, Zvečan/Zveçan, Zubin Potok and Leposavić/Leposaviq. The overall purpose of USAID Local Effective Governance Activity will be achieved through the following objectives and sub-objectives: Objective 1: Improved equitable, efficient, and transparent municipal governance which responds to citizens’ priorities with a focus on non-majority participation in democratic structures. 1.1 Strengthen local municipal governments and administration to improve service provision to both majority and non-majority communities. 1.2 Improving the ability of municipalities to articulate their municipal needs to the central-level government. 1.3 Strengthen municipal transparency and outreach to all citizens. 1.4 Strengthen the central-level capacities in outreach and governance to better support municipalities in addressing needs of the non-majority communities and improve municipal service delivery. 1.5 Facilitate linkages between municipalities. Objective 2: Increased active citizen participation of both majority and non-majority communities in municipal structures. 2.1 Increase interaction between majority and non-majority communities in joint priority settings. 2.2 Empower all communities to engage with the municipalities and hold them more accountable. Local governments in Kosovo are starting to recognize the need for introducing government policies and practices inspired by the principles of transparency, accountability, and citizen participation to better respond to the demands of their constituencies. Unfortunately, in many cases, they lack the capacities and political will needed to fully operationalize these policies and principles. The Local Effective Governance Activity will not only assist the municipalities but will also enable citizens to fulfil their role in a multiethnic and pluralistic society by influencing development, implementation and monitoring of local policies and by strengthening their participation in the decision-making processes.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
3 ACTIVITY MANAGEMENT AND ACHIEVEMENTS Objective 1: Improved equitable, efficient, and transparent municipal governance which responds to citizens’ priorities with a focus on non-majority participation in democratic structures. 1.1 Strengthen local municipal governments and administration to improve service provision to both majority and non-majority communities. Activity 1.1.1 Strengthen inclusive municipal program cycle processes and capacity Context LEGA helps municipalities to plan, finance, and implement solutions to inclusive local governance challenges by targeting the most critical points within the program cycle that affect inclusive and responsive service delivery, where local officials are committed to improving. LEGA identifies these using ICMA’s Municipal Institutional Self-Assessment (MISA) tool to facilitate an internal self-assessment process with each partner municipality. Actions and Accomplishments LEGA concluded the process of analyzing findings of the self-assessment in Štrpce/Shtërpcë Gračanica/Graçanicë and Novo Brdo/Novobërdë. Additionally, the results have been processed and the reports were completed. The assessment focuses on three major municipal competencies: budget planning, budget execution and auditing processes, while also looking into project management cycle, human resources etc. The outcome is a list of identified gaps and opportunities for improvement of municipal processes in the respective themes in all three municipalities; shaped in the form or recommendations which LEGA will follow up on and support municipalities to addressing them. Activity 1.1.2 Institutionalize public consultation mechanisms and structures Context
Building on its experience during Year 1, LEGA supports capacity and processes for implementing and institutionalizing legally or formally defined consultative mechanisms and structures, including Village Councils, LYACs, and IWGs. In the first quarter of Year 2, LEGA conducted a citizen survey. The goal of this sub-activity was to receive and analyze feedback on citizens’ perception about municipal governance as well as identify the needs and priorities of citizens in each partner municipality (with special attention to non- majority communities) in terms of municipal service provision. Additionally, the sub-activity facilitated the dialogue among municipalities and citizens to address identified issues It was intended that based on the results of the survey LEGA will help mobilize various community groups to develop proposals for improving municipal public services. Actions and Accomplishments Sub-activity – citizen survey Under LEGA’s supervision, this sub-activity was implemented by the local firm UBO Consulting. The following actions were taken: • Design the survey, including required sample, questionnaire, methodology. • Conduct the survey in 14 partner municipalities (as per the Ministry of Local Government Administration’s Performance Management System and National Audit Office’s official data publication)
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
• Conduct one municipal consultation in each partner municipality, with involvement of both communities (majority and non-majority), addressing municipal service provision; • Conduct one focus group workshop per partner municipality, involving both communities (majority and non-majority); addressing citizen perception regarding municipal service provision (qualitative data) as well as providing solutions for municipalities do to address selected issues; • Prepare an analytical report presenting the results of survey for each municipality, based on the provided governance elements, with concrete recommendations (including findings from municipal consultations) on improved and inclusive public services delivery; • Prepare a report on current situation (tailored for each of the 14 partner municipalities) as well as proposed solutions/actions toward institutionalizing the practice of conducting citizen survey independently by municipality; Furthermore, while utilizing the results of the survey, the accomplishments can be summarized as following: • Allowed LEGA and its partner municipalities to understand the citizens perception on municipal performance aiming to identify necessary steps towards improvement of provision in selected public services; • Enabled LEGA and its partner municipalities to identify challenges for access and inclusion of non- majority communities to public services; • Identified possibilities of institutionalizing and creating a legacy about practices of conducting citizen’ surveys by municipalities on their own. A final report on all the activities conducted, challenges and recommendations (available for public upon prior approval). The report is due January 31, 2020, and the subcontract will be fully closed out by mid- February. Sub-activity – revised local level regulations on Village Councils In Quarter 1 of Year 2, LEGA started assisting the municipalities to develop and adopt a new municipal regulation that complies with new national regulations for Village Councils. National regulations have made Village Councils voluntary structures, but they remain the primary way that citizens, particularly in rural communities, interact with their municipal government. The new Administrative Instruction (AI) regulating Village Councils has provided a mechanism through which municipalities can compensate (symbolically) the leaders of the Village Council. Actions and accomplishments • Kllokot/Klokot has adopted the new municipal regulations for VCs • Dragash/Dragaš, Strpce/Shterpce, and Novo Brdo/Novobërdë with LEGA support has made significant progress in developing the new municipal regulations for VCs Future or next steps • It is expected that Municipal Assemblies of Dragash/Dragaš, Strpce/Shterpce, and Novo Brdo/Novobërdë to adopt the new regulations in January session or latest in February.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
1.2 Improving the ability of municipalities to articulate their municipal needs to the central-level government Activity 1.2.1 AKM facilitates inter-governmental dialogue and improves inclusive municipal governance and citizen responsiveness. Sub-activity: Strengthen AKM based on identified weaknesses in GIZ report, with a focus on improving inclusive municipal governance and citizen responsiveness Context In October 2019, GIZ concluded an assessment that evaluates AKM capacity. Based on a review of this report, LEGA identified three areas where LEGA, assuming AKM buy-in, can provide support. Actions and Accomplishments In November 2019 LEGA met with AKM to discuss potential interventions in Year 2. It was agreed that work would be done in four sections (as per LEGA’s year two workplan): Municipal Public Opinion Research; drafting model acts for municipalities; increasing non-majority inclusion; and connecting municipalities (through AKM collegia) to cross-ministerial working group. Each of the four sections would be treated individually by technical teams and a path forward will be defined in the near future.
1.3 Strengthen municipal transparency and outreach to all citizens Activity 1.3.1 Facilitate compliance with Law on Languages The Year 2 work plan noted that work was scheduled to start in the third quarter. As such, no actions were conducted under this activity. Activity 1.3.2 Strengthen citizen outreach and access to information Sub-activity: Citizen Service Centers. Context To improve the efficiency and availability of citizen services LEGA planned to initiate an assessment of necessary steps for improvement and/or establishment of CSCs in all 14 municipalities. Actions and Accomplishments During the first quarter LEGA drafted an RFP to accomplish this task, but then put it in on hold in early January. Activity 1.3.3 Strengthen MOCRs Context At the local level, LEGA planned to continue to support the integration of MOCRs into municipal planning and decision-making processes and strengthen their ability to work with local structures and CSOs and to develop networks and communications strategies, along with the PIO, to keep non-majority communities informed of their efforts, the potential impact of decisions on their communities, opportunities to participate in local processes, and to continually gather citizen feedback. Actions and Accomplishments During the reporting period, LEGA conducted coaching and mentoring session with the Municipal Officers for Communities and Return (MOCR) in Klokot/Kllokot, Klinë/Klina and Zvečan/Zveçan municipalities. The
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
outcome of the meeting contributed to a more effective implementation of duties and new methods to engage citizens in the decision-making process.
Activity 1.3.4 Facilitate utilization of new technologies. Context In Year 2, starting in Quarter 1, LEGA anticipated using grants or support funds to implement this activity, including the elements of e-assemblies. A potential grantee would build capacity of the municipal staff, including PIOs to assess the current status of the websites and to identify missing content. The grantee would perform an initial update of content, then develop a toolkit for municipal PIO staff to enable them to continuously update and maintain these websites on their own. Actions and Accomplishments LEGA conducted a coaching session with the Public Information Officer in Štrpce/Shtërpcë Municipality aiming to effectively implement the steps that are pre-identified in the Action Plan for updating their municipal website. Updating their website will help the municipality meet legal requirements regarding municipal transparency and accountability.
1.4 Strengthen the central-level capacities in outreach and governance to better support municipalities in addressing needs of the non-majority communities and improve municipal service delivery Activity 1.4.1 Facilitate formal center-municipal consultative body and process Context MLGA has committed to lead an inter-ministerial consultative body at the functional civil service level, which by its very existence and obligations will strengthen the connection between the central government and municipal governments. LEGA has formally begun the process of facilitating the development of the consultative body, along with relevant processes and governance structure. Actions and Accomplishments During Quarter 1, several meetings took place between LEGA and MLGA to follow through on the creation of the inter-ministerial consultative body creation. Due to internal political developments, unfortunately, in December we were informed that MLGA is not willing to pursue the idea for the time being, but rather will wait for the new government to take on the initiative.
1.5 Facilitate linkages between municipalities Activity 1.5.1 Facilitate Inter-Municipal Cooperation Agreements (IMC). Context This activity aims to improve local economic development in partner municipalities. Currently, the situation differs across 14 partner municipalities and it needs to be thoroughly analysed and clearly defined to enable future interventions by both local governments and central level institutions and donors. Moreover, the identified potential should enable linkages between the municipalities to support joint efforts for improvement through inter-municipal cooperation. This activity was implemented by a local sub-contractor RIINVEST.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
Actions and Accomplishments Specific actions taken during Quarter 1 include: • conducted a thorough review and analysis of municipal LED framework including but not limited to municipal plans and strategies (where applicable), both in short and long-term objectives; • conducted two regional local economic development roundtables • developed individual reports for each of 14 partner municipalities on economic opportunities • developed individual reports for each of 14 partner municipalities on their potential for inter- municipal cooperation on joint economic development and improved competitiveness • conducted a follow up roundtable, with central level stakeholders to present the main findings and recommendations Final report is due January 31. Closeout of the subcontract will be complete by mid-February.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
Objective 2: Increased active citizen participation of both majority and non-majority communities in municipal structures.
2.1 Increase interaction between majority and non-majority communities in joint priority setting Activity 2.1.1. Strengthening inclusiveness and capacity of Village Councils Context Village Councils provide a community-level mechanism for expressing the needs, priorities and complaints of citizens to their government. In general, the Village Councils lack capacity to fulfill their role. In addition, current Village Council structures lack the participation of women, youth and non-majority community representatives. Actions and Accomplishments With LEGA support, Klokot/Kllokot has developed and adopted the Village Council regulations. Its structure includes women, youth and non-majority community representatives. Similar efforts were carried out in Štrpce/Shtërpcë, Dragash/Dragaš and Novo Brdo/Novobërdë. In January and February 2020, it is expected that the MAs will adopt the regulations for VCs in Štrpce/Shtërpcë, Dragash/Dragaš and Novo Brdo/Novobërdë, considering the inclusiveness principles suggested by LEGA. Activity 2.1.2 Strengthen youth groups and increase youth inclusion in municipal structures and processes for joint priority setting, planning, budgeting and oversight of budget execution Context Local Youth Action Councils (LYACs) were established as the formal mechanism for youth engagement in public affairs. The majority of LYACs, however, struggle with internal capacity, lack of internal policies and regulations, high turnover of leadership, weak relations with the local government and lack of success in reaching out to target groups. In Year 2, LEGA planned an individual approach in re-establishment of each remaining dysfunctional LYACs (Dragaš/Dragash, Severna Mitrovica/Mitrovicë Veriore, Klinë/Klina and Ranilug/Ranillug) and strengthen the functional ones (Istog/Istok, Gračanica/Graçanicë, Partes/Partesh, Ranilug/Ranillug and Kline/Klina). Actions and Accomplishments Istog/Istok. During Quarter 1, LEGA has been engaged in capacity development support to the recently established LYAC through two trainings, which have been implemented in cooperation with Peace Corps Volunteers. As an outcome of the training, an environmental cleaning activity has been designed and implemented in village of Gurakoc/Djurakovac. In addition, LEGA supported the LYAC in submitting a request to the Municipal Department of Public Services and Regional Waste Collection Company to provide a maintenance plan for the park in Gurakocë/Đurakovac. Furthermore, in November 2019 with LEGA assistance, the LYAC organized a public event to pay tribute to earthquake victims in Albania. Over 70 young men and women, including 21 members of LYAC took part in the public event. Gračanica/Graçanicë. During Quarter 1, LEGA has supported the LYAC by coaching the first focus group to assess youth priorities. In addition, LEGA supported the LYAC in implementing an environmental activity which is included in the strategy for youth volunteers. Namely, the LYAC joined GAIA (a local environmental NGO) to encourage volunteers to plant seedlings. Around 250 seedlings were planted on the territory of the municipality. In November 2019, LEGA provided support to the LYAC in organizing the petition collection for
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
improving the river Gracanka. LEGA supported the LYAC in terms of drafting the petition, mobilizing young volunteers to collect signatures, and raising visibility of the LYAC as well as raising awareness about the pollution problem through traditional and social media. This was a success story reported to USAID. Partes/Partesh. LEGA strengthened the LYAC by providing mentoring youth in organizing several public meetings in the city and villages with municipal officials, Informal Woman Group and various youth groups to discuss youth priorities. The municipality committed to act on several topics raised by the youth, particularly on the lack of cultural and sport events. Ranilug/Ranillug. LEGA facilitated the re-establishment of LYAC. To follow up, LEGA conducted a mentoring and coaching session for LYAC members. Kline/Klina. Together with several NGO partners, such as Youth Center “Ardhmëria and a Peace Corps Volunteer, LEGA discussed the revitalization of the LYAC. Meantime, LEGA started consultations with the Director of Culture, Youth and Sports and the Youth Officer of the municipality to discuss the LYAC. As a result of the meeting, the municipality and LEGA will jointly initiate consultation with youth groups in the first quarter of next year to identify the core group of the future LYAC. Severna Mitrovica/Mitrovicë Veriore. In December 2019, LEGA organized mentoring session for members of LYAC. The aim of the meeting was to tutor the LYAC members to conceptualize, design and better formulate the priority initiatives and requests that will be submitted to local governance. Sub-activity: Strategies for developing youth volunteer strategies Actions and accomplishments Several events were organized in Quarter 1, such as: • A workshop for nine LYACs (Leposavić/Leposaviq, Zubin Potok, North Mitrovica, Gračanica/Graçanicë, Obiliq/Obilić, Parteš/Partesh, Ranilug/Ranillug, Štrpce/Shtërpcë and Dragash/Dragaš) on development of strategies for creation of youth volunteer networks. The participants learned about youth volunteer networking and the strategies for outreach, promotion and mobilization of youth at the local and inter-municipal level. • To follow up, LEGA conducted tailored mentorship session with LYAC Gracanica/Graqanice Zubin Potok and Ranilug/Ranillug to develop strategies for expanding their youth volunteer network. The draft strategies include promotion of volunteerism, development of volunteer network structure and establishing programs for volunteering. Youth volunteer network strategies in the municipalities of Gračanica/Graçanicë, Leposavić/Leposaviq, Zubin Potok and Ranilug/Ranillug will be completed.
Activity 2.1.3 Strengthen women groups and increase gender inclusion in municipal policies and processes for joint priority setting, planning, budgeting and oversight of budget execution
Context Inclusion of women in decision-making processes has been lagging in all LEGA municipalities. Mechanisms for systematic and institutional representation of women in the governing structure, such as Informal Women Groups (IWG), have been proven unsuccessful due to poor capacity of these entities to effectively advocate on behalf of their constituencies.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
Actions and Accomplishments
Obiliq/Obilić. In cooperation with the municipal Directorate of Urban Planning, Cadaster and Property, LEGA facilitated the participation of women, youth and non-majority community representatives in the public debate regarding Municipal Development Plan. LEGA conducted outreach activities to disseminate information, such as sending information on the public debate to the representatives of these focus groups via e-mail and phone calls. Additionally, LEGA supported the design and printing of poster information in both official languages that were distributed and placed across the municipality. In total, 46 citizens participated in the debate.
Dragash/ Dragaš. During Quarter 1, a series of events were facilitated by LEGA such as: • A women’s networking event that served as a unique opportunity to introduce different women groups that are active and have diverse roles within the municipality. It brought together the Informal Women Group, Municipal Officer on Gender Equality (MOGE), IWG from the village of Bellobrad and a group of young women volunteers from NGO “AVOKO” to share experiences among women groups/institutions, seek opportunities for conducting joint activities that advance the role of women as well as establishing coordination. • LEGA conducted an event under the campaign “16 days of activism against gender-based domestic violence” that gathered representatives of municipal authorities and other relevant entities to gender-based domestic violence, such as Social Protection Center, police, NGOs and media. The event was followed by a march of women and girls at the center of Dragash/Dragaš town to increase the awareness against gender-based domestic violence attended by over a 100 people. • LEGA conducted a mentoring session with the Informal Women which resulted in needs identification, including internal document development, membership increase, work plan development and capacity building. Ranilug/Ranillug and Parteš/Partesh. In both municipalities, IWGs were mentored by LEGA to prepare to mark “16 days of activism against violence against women”. That included a panel discussion with 37 people (Ranilug/Ranillug) and 48 people (Parteš/Partesh) major local stakeholders, and printing and distributing leaflets that raised awareness on violence against women, including legal aspects and contacts of institutions that play an active role on this matter. Novo Brdo/Novobërdë. In Quarter 1, LEGA organized an on-the-job training and mentoring session for IWG members from the majority and non-majority communities. The training was attended by 14 participants (nine Kosovo-Serb and five Kosovo-Albanian). A mentorship session has been planned to support IWG members to design and articulate priority initiatives deriving from their Action Plan, which will be submitted to the municipality. Istog/Istok. To continue to strengthen the women groups, on the occasion of International Breast Cancer Month, LEGA supported the Office for Gender Equality (MOGE) and Informal Women Group (IWG) to prepare and deliver a breast cancer awareness campaign event. The campaign included a public meeting with women from urban, rural and remote areas and distribution a breast cancer leaflet with informative advice.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
Activity 2.1.4 Expanding areas of service provision to target groups by IWGs Sub-activity – Business registration Context
Jointly with the LYACs, LEGA planned to support the incorporation of IWG members to inform them on the process for registering businesses. Where they exist, IWGs have expressed a desire to learn how to register businesses as part of their annual work plans. This is an opportunity for IWGs to expand their reach to additional women in their communities, including women from non-majority communities, to teach them about ways they can interact with the municipality and what the role of the municipality is in promoting and facilitating economic development through established processes. Actions and accomplishments
Initially, LEGA prepared a draft RFA that would address the business registration training for both LYACs and IWGs. Per USAID’s advice, LEGA met the Kosovo Economic Growth activity and decided to conduct this sub- activity in partnership. The agreement indicates that KEGA will provide the training materials, agenda and the trainers, while LEGA will mobilize the interested LYACs and IWGs of its partner municipalities.
A two-day workshop will be held on February 18-19, 2020. Sub-activity: Licensing IWGs with the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare for social service provision Context
As the Ministry of Labor and Social Welfare supports the provision of social assistance only for licensed entities, IWGs have expressed interest in obtaining LEGA’s assistance in the process of licensing, which will enable them to receive funds from the Ministry and expand their service delivery. Actions and accomplishments
To address this task, during Quarter 1, LEGA prepared a draft RFA that was shared with USAID for approval. This grant aimed to enhance capacity of women groups (IWGs) in LEGA partner municipalities to provide social services to vulnerable groups through Licensing of the Legal Entity/Organizations that Provide Social and Family Services. Activity 2.1.5 Increase inter-ethnic interaction and cooperation Context
Citizens in LEGA partner municipalities are struggling to address community grievances due to a lack of effective citizen participation mechanisms and insufficient engagement by local and central-level institutions to respond to citizens’ initiatives. Actions and Accomplishments
During the reporting period, LEGA grantee Democracy Plus completed all consultative meetings with local communities and local institutions. As a result of these consultation processes, five issues affecting different Kosovo communities have been identified. The first set of trainings for local CSOs have been completed. LEGA’s grantee will complete training sessions with CSOs and produce media products to promote inclusive governance processes in Kosovo. Full close-out is planned for end of February 2020.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
2.2 Empower all communities to engage with the municipalities and hold them more accountable. Activity 2.2.1 Indirect Citizen Engagement Context In Quarter 1 of Year 2, per requests from Klokot/Kllokot and Severna Mitrovica/Mitrovicë Veriore municipalities, LEGA continued one sub-activity of Year 1 such as Strengthen collaboration between non- majority community actors and municipal officials and representatives. This sub-activity is not included the Year 2 workplan. Actions and Accomplishments On November 14, LEGA organized the second coordination meeting of all relevant non-majority stakeholders in Klokot/Kllokot municipality. The meeting was attended by 14 participants (13 non-majority, 10 men and four women) from the executive and legislative municipal structures (Deputy Mayor for Communities, MOCR, MA and CC members, VC representative and CSO). The discussion revealed a deep political intolerance, the lack of inter-stakeholder cooperation and consistency in addressing issues related to non-majority communities. On November 19, LEGA organized the first coordination meeting of non- majority stakeholders in Severna Mitrovica/Mitrovicë Veriore municipality. The coordination meeting was attended by 13 participants (8 non-majority members; 4 men and 9 women) from the executive and legislative municipal structures (Chairperson of Communities Committee, MOCR, MA and CC members, PIO and CSO). The discussion revealed the lack of action by municipal officials when it comes to addressing issues and responding to requests related to non-majority communities. Activity 2.2.2 Direct Citizen Engagement Sub-activity: Meet my municipality Context For the most part, citizens don’t trust their own municipal officials in carrying out their responsibility of meeting their needs. Additionally, citizens often aren’t aware of what the municipalities can or can’t do for them. At the same time, municipal officials are hesitant to face their constituents for fear of being held accountable. To build trust between citizens and municipal officials, LEGA will facilitate Meet My Municipality sessions.
Actions and Accomplishments Obiliq/Obilić. LEGA facilitated its first “Meet my Municipality” session in the municipality in Quarter 1. The purpose of it, led by recently appointed female Director of the Directorate of Health and Social Welfare (DHSW) and Deputy Mayor, (former DHSW Director), was to disseminate the information to women and girls living in Obiliq/Obilić, on health care services which the DHSW provides, with an emphasis on new services, such as those provided by recently opened "classes for mothers" center. In an informal setting inside the Elementary School "Ismail Dumoshi", there was an open discussion where the municipal officials and gynecologist provided 20 female and five male participants health and medical information to improve the health and well-being of women and girls from both majority and non-majority communities with a particular focus on women from the RAE community. Dragash/Dragaš. LEGA facilitated a public meeting between municipal representatives and non-majority community representatives in the rural area of Brod village. The meeting presented a unique opportunity
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
to non-majority community members to get acquainted on recently adopted legal framework on legalization of illegal constructions. The representative of the Municipal Directorate on Urbanism provided a detailed explanation to participants related to the process, procedures and steps to be followed during the process of legalization of illegal constructions. In total 29 members of the Bosniak ethnic group participated in the event. All non-majority community representatives expressed high interest in a follow- up debate with legalization as the main topic. Novo Brdo/Novobërdë. LEGA also organized a public meeting and conducted an outreach campaign with citizens in village Gornje Kusce/ Kufcë e Epërme. The meeting was attended by 14 participants (four females and 10 males) who were briefed by Deputy Mayor and Director of Cadaster in Novo Brdo/Novobërdë municipality about the current possibilities for free legalization of facilities without a permit. Two additional Meet My Municipality sessions will be implemented in Novo Brdo/Novobërdë and Obiliq/Obilić.
4 SUPPORT FUNDS AND GRANTS UNDER CONTRACT Through the end of this quarter, The Local Effective Governance Activity has signed a grant agreement with a local NGO Democracy Plus for the implementation of ‘Create Local Capacity for Inter-ethnic Cooperation’, where the overall goal of the project is to enhance understanding of citizen participation mechanisms in Kosovo through direct support to citizen groups to identify and institutionally address issues affecting citizens of different ethnic backgrounds or citizens from different municipalities. Additionally, the goal of the project is to empower citizen groups to address community issues to relevant authorities.
Previously, through Support Funds LEGA issued and signed three sub-contracts as shown below: 1. Citizens’ perception on local Municipal Governance - UBO Consulting 2. Strengthen inter-municipal cooperation on economic development and competitiveness - RIINVEST 3. Support communities’ ability to monitor the implementation of municipal strategic plans (Center for Social Development)
Additionally, towards the end of the quarter, LEGA has supported smaller activities that supported the overall objectives of LEGA. The activities facilitated and supported through Support Funds are described under sections of activities in Objective 1 and 2.
The following table provides GUC and SF status as of the end of Quarter 1 of Year 2:
Status Number/ Implementer GUC Cost share Support Fund Activity RFA/P Create Local Capacity for Inter- RFA_1 Democracy Plus 33,527.40$ 0,00$ Objective 2 ethnic cooperation Citizens’ perception on local RFP_1 UBO Consulting $43,326.00$ Objective 1 Municipal Governance (Survey)
Strengthen inter-municipal RFP_2 Riinvest $52,935.90$ Objective 1 cooperation on economic development and competitiveness (LED) Project.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
Support communities’ ability to RFP_3 CSD $33,749.70$ Objective 2 monitor the implementation of municipal strategic plans
Public hearing/Mentoring and PO $45,391.54 Objective 1 coaching/Conferences/Exchang and 2 e visit facilitated by LEGA Grand Total $33,527.40 0.00$ $175,403.14$ $208,930.14
By the end of the Q1 LEGA committed in total $208,930.14 under GUC and Support Funds, of which one grant and three subcontracts has been signed for the value of $163,538.60$ and $45,391.54 through purchase orders.
LEGA’s termination decision impacted the current Support Funds process, as well. During the closeout phase, the Survey and LED sub-contracts will be terminated on term by January 31. The CSD sub-contract will be early terminated also by January 31, after Deliverable #2 is submitted and approved. The D+ grant is going to be early terminated by February 10, including the Deliverable #3.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
5 COLLABORATING, LEARNING AND ADAPTING (CLA) During the first quarter of Year 2, LEGA revised, updated and submitted the Monitoring, Evaluation GENDER BALANCE and Learning Plan (MELP) based on the approved workplan. The updated MELP supports the team to Female stay focused on results and contributing to 16 49% Performance Indicators through defined targets (outputs and milestones). The updated MELP includes adjustments of old indicators and Male introduce three new ones that would be more 51% amenable to LEGA. Also, Performance Indicator Reference Sheet’s (PIRS) are also updated with relevant information accordingly. Figure 1 Total number of participants During Quarter 1, LEGA performed 40 activities in 14 partner municipalities (figure 1.) and the central government. A total of 636 people participated in Total 636 participants in 40 various meetings, on-the-job coaching, trainings, facilitated municipal activities, facilitated MLGA activities activities, all with the aim to achieve targets as per the remaining activities of Annual Work Plan of FY1 Albanian 240 and the Approved Annual Work Plan FY2. Gender balance, as a top priority of all interventions, was Bosnian 31 maintained in this quarter as well; based on the Gorani 2 evidence, total female participation reached 49 percent (figure 2.). RAE 26 All the performed activities of this period are Serbian 316 recorded through Activity Approval Request and Turkish 2 Post Activity Reports, that are available electronically and physically filed in M&E office. Unreported 19
0 100 200 300 400 During this period, the most prominent type of Figure 2 Participants by ethnic group intervention was the facilitation of various meetings and events with in-house resources. Out Type of intervention of 40 interventions, more than 70% were the facilitation of meetings (figure 3.). This indicates 11% 2% that LEGA is not leading but rather enabling the 13% partner municipalities and citizen groups to take an active role in local government affairs. 74%
Conference Facilitation Mentoring/Coaching/OJT Training/Workshop Figure 3 Type of intervention
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
6 COOPERATION AND COORDINATION WITH USAID AND OTHER DONORS’ PROGRAMS During the reporting period, LEGA continued to extensively engage in coordinating its activities with various stakeholders in the sector. A series of meetings were conducted with targeted stakeholders to learn about challenges faced in implementation of activities and target potential areas of joint intervention and/or coordination. As in the Year 1, during the first quarter of Year 2, the coordination has been carried out with both USAID funded programs in relevant programmatic areas and other donors active in the sector.
LEGA has organized a series of meetings with USAID’s implementing partners that play a major role under USAID’s Democracy and Governance portfolio. Based on these discussions, potential areas of cooperation were identified: • In December 2019, LEGA met the USAID’s TEAM as part of regular consultation and coordination between USAID activities that impact municipal governance. Identified areas of cooperation were as follows: promote and expand TEAM’s lessons learned on social audits within LEGA municipalities, particularly the cases of park safety in Prishtina and school procurement in Vushtri; explore LYAC and IWG interest to learn on e-procurement (procurimi i hapur) and benefits through active civic engagement on municipality accountability. • In November and December 2019, LEGA met with Kosovo Economic Governance Activity leadership to discuss joint implementation of Online Business Registration training for LYACs and IWGs activity. Both parties have agreed to implement this activity jointly. Trainings will be organized in the week of February 17, 2020. In terms of work in municipalities, there is overlap in only one LEGA partner municipality (Gračanica/Graçanicë). The technical teams have decided to follow up case by case to coordinate the future interventions (CSC intervention was discussed as one of the potential joint efforts). KEGA works with Gračanica/Graçanicë on the legalization process and this process is administered through CSC. • Similarly, LEGA conducted a meeting with the UpToYouth leadership to explore potential for cooperation and synergy between the projects in early December 2019. As the UpToYouth project is implemented in only two LEGA partner municipalities and has different target group of beneficiaries (rural community and informal setting), it has been decided that both activities will continue communication to ensure potential for cooperation in the area of youth development in Kline/Klina and Istog/Istok. • LEGA met the USAID’s Justice Matters Activity in October 2019 to collect information and lessons learned on their internship program. LEGA had anticipated starting its own internship program, but will no longer do so as the project has been terminated effective March 31, 2020. • Meantime, LEGA continued to coordinate its intervention at the local level with the Peace Corps Volunteers. For example, in November 2019, LEGA met with Peace Corp Volunteer (PCV) in Dragash/Dragaš Municipality and discussed opportunities in organizing joint activities. As a result, it was agreed that parties will jointly facilitate the meeting between IWG and a group of volunteers of young women which operate under NGO “Avoko” in Dragash/Dragaš. The aim of the meeting planned for January-February 2020 is to introduce both women groups, in exchanging experiences and seeking opportunities to further expand IWG as a part of its expanding process foreseen to take place in the future. Moreover, LEGA had individual meetings November 2019 with Peace Corps Volunteers that are currently volunteering in Ranilug/Ranillug and Gračanica/Graçanicë. The purpose of the meetings was to give a detailed presentation of LEGA activities in respective municipalities and to find areas where volunteers would prefer to join the implementation. Both
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
volunteers have shown interest in LEGA activities with the focus on Gender and Youth related activities.
In addition to USAID’s funded activities, LEGA continued to meet other major donor organization that, through their programs have an impact on Kosovo’s local governance development, such as: • In November 2019, LEGA met again with SDC-DEMOS management, as part of regular coordination to discuss upcoming activities and potential overlap. Two topics were discussed: 1. the Performance Grant (PG) and how LEGA interventions affect it, and 2. the support to MLGA for designing the validation mechanism for Performance Management System (PMS) (activity 1.4.2). LEGA has several activities that target specific themes which are measured by the PG and should LEGA’s interventions be successful, their anticipated impact is that partner municipalities’ performance improves and the received funding from the PG is increased. All of them were discussed and it was agreed that the interventions of both LEGA complement the work of DEMOS and measurements of PG rather than pulling in different direction. On the second topic, DEMOS expressed willingness to also be part of the process as they have expertise on the topic and have been supporting MLGA in the design of the PMS itself. It was agreed that the following steps will be closely coordinated in the implementation of this activity and LEGA and DEMOS will complement each other in the process of the validation mechanism design. Ultimately, LEGA explained that it would not support the implementation of the tool and asked of DEMOS to use the same approach (to which DEMOS subscribed), as MLGA has expressed the commitment and capacity to implement it themselves. • In December 2019, LEGA met the OSCE Deputy Head of Mission, Chief of Governance Section, Head of Coordination office and other technical staff. The aim of the meeting was to inform each other on program objectives and identify possible areas of cooperation. While operating all over Kosovo, including LEGA’s 14 partner municipalities, OSCE mentioned that they focus on democratization, security and political stability in Kosovo. Youth and Gender are also cross-cutting themes. Furthermore, LYACs/IWGs support and municipal transparency seem to be an area of possible coordination with LEGA. • Also, in December 2019, LEGA met the British Embassy to discuss the current status of cooperation and areas of potential future cooperation between our projects at the local level. It is important to mention that at that stage LEGA already coordinated interventions in 9 municipalities with the two local NGOs – KDI and AKTIV – contracted by the British Embassy. Those nine municipalities are: Obiliq/Obilic, Kline/Klina, Dragash/Dragas, Strpce/Shterpce, Gracanica/Gracanice, and the four north Serb Majority Municipalities. The British Embassy reported that the local government project will be concluded most likely in March 2020 and they have not planned any follow-up intervention on local government in Kosovo. Until the project is concluded in March 2020, LEGA RMAs will continue to coordinate with KDI and AKTIV to avoid overlapping and encourage synergies. • Additionally, LEGA met with GIZ Sustainable Municipal Service Project. The project focuses exclusively on waste management, from basic services to “circular economy”, which is a term referring to the recycling industry, and covers all 38 Kosovo Municipalities. The areas for possible cooperation that were discussed in principle are as following: Performance Grants Scheme “Clean Environment”, particularly three governance indicators (procurement plan, municipal transparency and municipal asset management inventory); civic engagement in environmental education, specifically on littering/illegal dumps and waste service fee collection; and inter-municipal cooperation on waste management. Next steps shall focus on identifying specific LEGA municipalities and specific intervention in each in line with those areas mentioned above. • LEGA also met the European Union Office in Kosovo (EUOK) representatives to discuss areas of cooperation. While EUOK is not directly financing any specific local government interventions, there
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
are some areas of potential joint efforts such as youth and gender. Pending EUOK interest to cooperate, LEGA will follow up with specific EUOK’s project managers in areas mentioned above.
Specific donor coordination has been articulated in the four NSMMs. For example, LEGA conducted a meeting with the representatives of International Business College Mitrovica (Riverview Campus, North Mitrovica) regarding a potential cooperation on capacity development of LYACs in the four NSMMs. In addition, LEGA conducted a coordination meeting with the UN Habitat municipal advisor in Zvečan/Zveçan regarding the possible overlapping in development of Municipal Action Plan on Transparency (MAPT) initiated by LEGA and Citizens Participation Plan currently developed by UN Habitat. Meantime, LEGA has been in touch with OSCE gender focal point in the north to find out about OSCE plans regarding capacity building of municipal officers for gender equality in the four municipalities, particularly in connection to assistance in development of MOGEs’ annual work plans. OSCE has not planned any trainings for the four gender equality officers and will implement such activities only upon request by interested parties. Moreover, LEGA held a coordination meeting with UN Habitat representatives in the north regarding the functionalization of Geographic Information System (GIS) in four northern municipalities. LEGA was informed that only Zubin Potok municipality has not obtained and installed IT equipment necessary for functioning of GIS due to the lack of budgetary means and administrative obstacles, while the remaining three NSMMs have the equipment in place.
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
7 COMMUNICATION AND OUTREACH
The implementation of LEGA activities during the first quarter of year two LEGA has enabled the communications and outreach department to establish a close collaboration with partner municipalities as well as central level stakeholders.
LEGA’s communication team played a critical role at the front and back end of programmatic activities and initiatives. Prior to events, LEGA utilized resources and partnerships to promote activities to maximize awareness and participation. LEGA then used a multi-pronged approach in reporting on programmatic impact and successes.
Event and Activity Promotion LEGA regularly shared activity information with municipal PIOs, IWGs, LYACs, and non-majority community members to increase inclusion and representation in municipal participatory mechanisms such as budget hearings etc.
LEGA Outreach via Partner Municipalities and other Stakeholders/Beneficiaries LEGA’s communications department has actively worked with partner municipalities in promoting LEGA’s initiatives. The team has also stayed on top of informing relevant stakeholders with information of our activities and achievements to better reach target audiences. This includes other LEGA stakeholders and beneficiaries, as demonstrated below.
Translated LEGA Brochures were printed and sent to all 14 municipal partners during the reporting period. To be available to all citizens by the entrance of each municipal building as agreed with PIO`s.
Albanian Version
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
Serbian version
USAID Local Effective Governance Activity – Quarterly Performance Report, October 1st, 2019 – December 31st, 2019
New Communication Plan LEGA communications team began collecting weekly quotations from the field to be included in our weekly reports as of December 2019. Where we eventually would have had a collection of quotes in an album- based story of our interventions and work in Kosovo partner municipalities. This was an idea to then be presented to all partners and relevant stakeholders in reaching out to other citizens hesitant on engagement.
One Page Newspaper Articles Communications office has established a process of developing the one-page newspaper while articulating information on newspapers to then be shared via PIO`s at partner municipalities about recent LEGA interventions and work to better outreach relevant citizens where LEGA was present.
Success stories At the beginning of Year 2, LEGA presented a success story that demonstrated LEGA’s impact on municipalities and citizens engaging LYAC.