Can councils and activists work together? Let's vote on it.

I'm looking forward to a conference later this month, hosted by Bristol City Council, in which we'll be invited to consider how far local authorities and community activists can work together effectively. In particular, we'll be looking at whether local councils can provide a useful online campaigning platform for community groups. There'll be speakers for and against the idea, and opportunities for the rest of us to vote using keypads.
I should think Bristol - and the e-Innovations group at the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister - will be hoping for a positive result, because they have invested £395,000 in the CampaignCreator system developed by Bristol. I've been rather sceptical in the past - links below - but hope it turns out well for all concerned. As the Power Inquiry report shows, we need some good ideas to revive democracy, and this one has the advantage of giving citizens a direct voice instead of relying on existing organisations to become more participative.
I know voting at a conference isn't the most participative way of working through the pros and cons of an issue, but I'm assured there will be plenty of time for debate, discussion and networking .... and if we don't like it, we can always follow up with our own campaign on the system. The site is now open for business, and you don't have to live in Bristol.
Previously
CampaignCreator site goes live
Can a council host community campaigns?