The Garland City Council held a work session on August 4, 2025, focusing on the development of a comprehensive communication master plan aimed at enhancing public engagement and information accessibility. The session outlined the 15-month development process, key findings, and next steps for improving communication strategies within the city.

The meeting began with a discussion on the importance of effective communication, emphasizing the need to foster a positive image of Garland for both residents and visitors. The plan aims to ensure that all community members have access to relevant information about city offerings, including events and services. The primary communication channels identified include social media, websites, and print marketing.

A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to the findings from a communications audit conducted by the consulting firm Magid. This audit revealed gaps in current communication efforts and highlighted the need for a more cohesive strategy. The council discussed the importance of aligning the master plan with Garland's strategic plan, known as Garland's Pathway to Success (GPS), which includes various focus areas related to communication.

The master plan development involved multiple phases, including community workshops and focus groups that gathered input from residents and visitors. Key takeaways from these discussions indicated that Garland's diversity, particularly its culinary offerings, is a major attraction. However, participants expressed challenges in finding relevant municipal information, suggesting that clearer and more engaging communication is necessary.

The council outlined three main areas of focus for the master plan: optimization of existing communication channels, a refined content strategy, and the establishment of partnerships to enhance outreach efforts. Specific actions proposed include consolidating communication platforms to reduce fragmentation, improving website navigation, and developing targeted messaging that resonates with diverse audiences.

Additionally, the council acknowledged the importance of reaching residents who may not engage with digital platforms, emphasizing the need for traditional communication methods such as newsletters. The meeting concluded with plans for ongoing collaboration among city departments to ensure consistent messaging and effective use of resources.

Overall, the work session underscored Garland's commitment to enhancing communication strategies to better serve its community, with implementation expected over the next three to five years.