THE ROLE OF THE PUBLIC IN MAKING MANAGEMENT DECISIONS REGARDING THE PLANNING OF THE DEVELOPMENT OF HROMADA TERRITORIES

Research subject. The role and place of the public in making management decisions on hromada development planning, which is extremely important for ensuring effective, transparent and democratic governance at the local level. The study is based on the issue of involving citizens in the planning of spatial development of the hromada territory and their significant impact on the development and adoption of strategic plans for the development of the hromada territory, given that this process is often accompanied by a number of difficulties and barriers that can complicate effective co-operation, while at the same time such interaction between local authorities and the public has a number of advantages. Methodology. The scientific and theoretical foundations of public involvement in making managerial decisions on planning the development of hromada territories are investigated. As a result of the study, using general scientific methods, the author examines the regulatory framework governing the place of the public in the process of making managerial decisions, in particular, in planning the spatial development of the hromada territory. In the system of local development management, the planning function is singled out as the main one in public administration, which involves setting priorities, allocating resources, defining specific tasks and determining ways to achieve results at the initial stage of the system development. Research objective. Scientific and theoretical substantiation of public involvement in making managerial decisions on hromada development planning. To determine the place of strategic planning for the development of hromada territories as a component of strategic management of socio-economic development of the region and the main function of the management activities of local self-government bodies. To explain the importance of a comprehensive plan for the spatial development of the territory as the main document reflecting the territorial development of the hromada, as well as the importance of public involvement in its preparation. To identify the forms of public participation in spatial development planning, as well as the importance of taking into account the advantages and problems of such participation. Conclusion. The article examines the role and place of the public in strategic planning of hromada development and its participation in management decision-making, which is necessary for the development of an effective and transparent local self-government system. It is determined that the public has a significant influence on the development and adoption of strategic plans for the development of the hromada, but this process is often accompanied by a number of difficulties and barriers that can complicate effective co-operation. Ways to overcome challenges and find compromise solutions require a comprehensive approach, including improved communication, increased trust, optimisation of citizen engagement mechanisms, and removal of administrative, financial and legal barriers. Among the functions of local governance is planning, which involves setting priorities, allocating resources, defining specific tasks and identifying ways to achieve results at the initial stage of the system's development. Strategic planning for hromada development is highlighted, which results in the definition of long-term goals and objectives for hromada development, in particular in the areas of economy, social sphere, environment and infrastructure. Particular attention is paid to public involvement in planning the spatial development of the hromada's territory, which not only improves the quality of decisions made but also ensures broad support among the hromada's residents. The main forms of public involvement in the preparation of a comprehensive plan for hromada spatial development are identified: public hearings and consultations, publication of drafts, questionnaires and surveys, creation of focus groups, use of mobile platforms and applications. The advantages and challenges of this process are identified. The advantages include: increased transparency and trust in the authorities; improved social unity and hromada cohesion; improved monitoring and control over the implementation of plans; innovative solutions and creativity, etc. At the same time, there may be a number of problems with public participation in the process of hromada development planning: low activity and interest of citizens; difficulty in coordinating and managing the process; communication and understanding problems; low quality of proposals (proposals that do not take into account technical and economic realities).