What is a Citizen Topic Group?
Citizen Topic Groups are a key part of the Visioning process. Each group will work in one of thirteen topic areas, building on the foundation of ideas and issues gathered through surveys and Big Idea Gathering Meetings, to create a vision statement, goals, implementation strategies and implementation steps. They will answer questions such as "What is our vision of the future? What do we want to achieve? What should be done?" Citizens will choose one topic group to commit to work with over the next six months.
What are the topics?
- Arts and Culture - new attractions; support and promotion of the arts
- Community Character - beautification; historic preservation; revitalization
- Community Facilities and Services - libraries; public safety; law enforcement
- Community Pride and Human Relations - diversity/tolerance; sense of community; youth; seniors
- Development - planning for growth; infrastructure; land preservation; neighborhoods; redevelopment
- Downtown - housing; investments; mobility
- Economic Development - airport; jobs and job training; science and technology
- Education - curriculum and programs; facilities (size/capacity); resource allocation; quality education
- Environment - environmental quality; energy; conservation (reduce/reuse/recycle)
- Governance/Decision-making - community involvement; government
- Health and Social Services and Affordable Housing - affordable housing; health; poverty/homelessness; social services
- Parks, Recreation, and Greenways - parks; recreation
- Transportation - alternative; public; transportation (general/roads)'
How do I know which group I should join?
Citizens should join the topic group focused on the topic they are the most passionate about. Citizens can only serve on one Citizen Topic Group but will be able to review and provide feedback on the work of all groups.
What is expected of Citizen Topic Group members?
The job of Citizen Topic Group members is to:
- Attend all Citizen Topic Group meetings. Citizen Topic Groups will meet at least once a month from January - June 2007. Some Groups may choose to meet more often at their own discretion.
- Help to finalize the membership of the Citizen Topic Group by identifying and inviting key subject matter experts and ensuring that all perspectives are represented.
- Gather information in order to become familiar with your chosen topic and with the existing community context. Specific tasks will be outlined by the consulting team.
- Complete additional assignments as necessary.
- Prepare - in cooperation with the members of your Citizen Topic Group - the required deliverables for the vision: a vision statement, goals, implementation strategies and implementation steps.
How can I join?
Citizens may RSVP to the City Manager's Office at 874-7214. The kickoff was conducted on January 17, 2007. The second meeting of the Citizen Topic Groups – and last opportunity to join a group – will be held on February 21, 2007 from 6:00 to 8:00 PM at West Junior High School, 401 Clinkscales Road. Citizens who are unable to join a topic group at either of the first two meetings may participate in the April 4 “Exploring the Vision” meeting. More details on the time and location of that meeting are TBD.
How can I learn more?
To learn more visit the Citizen Topic Group page.
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