I translated a civic flyer for my neighbors and one word changed the meaning more than I expected

People in my apartment building were confused by an English-only notice about an upcoming city meeting. I speak the language many of my older neighbors use at home, so I offered to make an informal translation of the date, location, and main subject. I wrote clearly at the top that it was a neighbor's translation, not an official city document.

The trouble arrived with one word. The notice said the city would "consider" a change. The closest everyday word in our language can also sound like the city is preparing or intending to do it. A more formal term is accurate but unfamiliar. My first draft made the proposal sound farther along than it may be. A neighbor immediately asked what could still be stopped.

That question made me reread everything. The notice linked to an agenda, but the agenda did not explain whether the meeting was for information, recommendation, or a final decision. I had been translating the words while silently guessing the process.

I paused distribution and contacted the office listed on the notice. I asked three narrow questions: what decision, if any, can be made at this meeting; whether public input will be accepted; and whether an official translation exists. Until I receive an answer, I plan to translate only the confirmed logistics and say that the decision stage is unclear.

A few neighbors are frustrated. They say an imperfect translation today is more useful than a perfect one after the meeting. They are right about the cost of delay. They are also relying on my wording in a situation where a small verb can change whether people feel invited, alarmed, or already defeated.

What is the responsible middle ground for volunteer translation of civic information? Should I provide the ambiguous term with a note explaining both readings, or wait for the agency to clarify the process?