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Buena Vista City Council is embarking on an initiative to develop a strategic plan to set priorities and guide the city’s direction for the next 10 years.
In order to ensure this plan reflects the needs and desires of the community, city officials are inviting all residents and stakeholders to participate in a community input session on Saturday, Nov. 2, from 2 to 4 p.m., at the Ramsey Educational Center, located at 2040 Magnolia Ave.
During this session, community members will have the opportunity to engage in hands-on activities, exercises and action planning designed to help shape Buena Vista’s future. While the city has previously held workshops and input sessions focused on specific issues or focus areas, this strategic plan will take a much broader approach, allowing for big picture thinking and longterm goal setting.
“We want this plan to reflect the voice of the entire community and lay a solid foundation for the city’s future,” said Mayor Tyson Cooper. “This is a chance for us to think critically and creatively about what we want Buena Vista to look like in the next decade and make sure we are aligned on our priorities. We are excited to hear from all members of our community as we envision our future together.”
Assisting with developing the plan is Dr. Michael J. Hicks, a visiting professor this semester at Virginia Military Institute who is a professor at Ball State University. He is being assisted by David Terrell, also a Ball State University professor who serves as executive director of Indiana Communities Institute.
To accommodate families at the community input session, children’s activities and child care will be provided in a separate room at the Ramsey Center so parents who wish to attend can bring their children and participate fully.
In addition to the Nov. 2 event, the city will offer an opportunity to participate in the planning effort during the annual Spooktacular event in downtown Buena Vista on Thursday, Oct. 31, from 4 to 6 p.m. Attendees can stop by the city’s booth for a brief planning activity, allowing them to share ideas for the future while enjoying the Halloween festivities.
RSVPs for the Nov. 2 session are encouraged but not required. Visit www. buenavistava.org/strategicplan to RSVP.
For questions or more information, contact Sarah Burch with the city manager’s office at [email protected] or (540) 261-8601.
