Community Engagement Task Force

The City of Hopkins is launching a new Community Engagement Task Force in response to  feedback asking for more engagement in planning, more informal social events and more opportunities to meet neighbors. 

In joining the Task Force, interested community members will work with a small group of action-oriented residents to plan, promote and host community events.

Commitment 

The Task Force will run through May to July 2026. Over three or four meetings, members will plan up to three summer events:

  1. Garden Plots Kickoff Tabling: Saturday, May 9, from 9 to 11 a.m.
  2. Sunset Series Potluck: Thursday, June 18, from 6 to 7 p.m.
  3. A group-designed event during Raspberry Festival (dates will be chosen by group availability)

Eligibility

Anyone with a connection to Hopkins is welcome to apply. No particular background or experience is required; just a desire to bring people together. Whether you're connected with a school system, faith community, sports team, cultural organization or even your neighborhood, your network can help the Task Force better connect Hopkins.

Requirements to Join

  • Must attend Task Force meetings in May, June, and July:Meeting dates are tentatively May 4, June 1 and June 29, with an optional meeting on July 13 if members desire additional time before the Raspberry Festival event. There will be a final reflection and celebration meeting on July 27 with dinner provided.
    • Attending at least one event is strongly recommended for all Task Force members.
    • Meetings will be on Monday nights at 6 p.m.at Hopkins City Hall. Hybrid meetings may be offered upon request.
  • A connection to the Hopkins community: This includes anyone who lives, works, goes to school, or worships in Hopkins or Hopkins area schools
  • A desire to engage with all members of the Hopkins community, with a willingness to learn from others, celebrate differences, and find common ground.

Responsibilities

  • Planning and hosting up to three city-wide summer events: Planning will take place primarily at monthly meetings, though some members may elect to take on additional work outside of meetings. The final event will be planned entirely by members, with flexibility on timeline and content.
  • Promoting events: Members with connections to schools, faith organizations, neighborhood associations, sports teams, cultural communities or any other group are encouraged to spread the word to bring together as many residents as possible.
  • Advising the city on engaging diverse residents: Membership in a community within Hopkins and/or experience working with diverse communities is a benefit in ensuring programming is appealing to more residents.

After the Task Force concludes, a final reflection session will be held. Members will be asked for their input regarding a long-term Community Engagement Group. Next steps will be taken based on their input and the success of the Task Force’s events.

Apply

If this sounds like something you’re interested in, please apply online.