Phase Two

When Crawford: 20/20 Vision began, only one thing was certain: Crawford County needed change in order to build a better future for its residents.

As the Vision project progresses, the process takes a more specific shape – one that has been crafted by voices in the community. Since March, eight community meetings have been held. These meetings provided an opportunity for all residents of the county to obtain information, give input and actively participate in the initiative.

The conclusion of the final general community on June 16 signified the end of phase one for the Vision project. The main objective of the meetings was to generate problem identification through discussion and surveying, which was undoubtedly accomplished.

Four very specific areas of concern were consistently identified during the course of the meetings:

Public safety and drug-related issues

Workforce quality and education

Quality of life

Business success and job availability

Through July, the Vision committee will prepare for phase two: issue-specific meetings. Unlike phase one, phase two will focus on solution building and planning, rather than problem identification. The issue-specific meetings will target the consistent topics listed above.

In order to keep community members involved in the process, Crawford: 20/20 Vision is planning a weekly series focusing on each challenge. In these weekly series, the Vision will release articles, provide facts, conduct surveys, and hold contests pertaining to each topic.

Issue-specific meetings will include individuals in the community who are deeply invested in the particular issues. Crawford: 20/20 Vision’s weekly series will allow community members far and wide to provide input, offer suggestions, generate discussion and participate in issue-specific dialogue. Participation from all county residents is vital.

Crawford: 20/20 Vision’s objective has persevered, and soon a tangible plan to achieve that objective will be constructed.

The actual issue-specific meetings are slated for August 16 and 17. Community members who feel passionate about a certain topic and want to actively participate in one of the meetings may contact Crawford: 20/20 Vision via e-mail at crawford2020@crawford-co.org. Questions or concerns may be directed to Dave Williamson, director of the Crawford County Economic Development Partnership, at 419-563-1809 or davidw@crawford-co.org.