Guidelines for Promoting Public Participation in the Development of Local Development Plans for the Phu Khae Subdistrict Administrative Organization, Chaloem Phra Kiat District, Saraburi Province

Abstract

     This research study aimed to: 1. examine the level of public participation in local development planning; 2. analyze factors influencing public participation, and 3. propose guidelines to promote such participation. The sample group consisted of 379 individuals who were aged over 18, along with seven key informants selected through purposive sampling. The research instruments included a 46-item questionnaire with four sections and in-depth interviews. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis.

     The results showed that: 1. the overall level of public participation was moderate. The aspect with the highest participation was receiving benefits, followed by monitoring and evaluation, while implementation and decision-making had lower levels of participation; 2. statistically significant factors influencing participation (p < 0.001) included knowledge and understanding, communication, and community attachment, whereas the lifestyle of the people showed a statistically significant causal relationship (p < 0.05), and 3) the proposed guidelines to enhance public participation included holding regular community meetings, disseminating information through diverse communication channels, developing projects that aim to improve quality of life, and ensuring transparent monitoring processes. This study highlights the importance of comprehensive public participation in the local development planning process, particularly in achieving sustainable outcomes that effectively meet the community’s needs.