Recommendations
Implementing a regional plan is a big undertaking, but that’s the beauty of tackling it together! A network of partners and resources working from the exact blueprint and sharing the workload will get you further faster. Similarly, a blueprint designed with attainable, incremental deliverables offers the potential for wins along the way toward a realized vision.
first things first: establish a network of partners and resources
establish Regional and Local PowerUP Committees
Regional: Developing and executing a comprehensive regional plan is a big task that requires the focused attention of local leaders and the broader public’s support and perspective. For this reason, it is recommended that the PCRPPD invite the community partners recognized through Phase 1 of this process as Steering Committee members to transition as members of the PowerUP Committee. This core group will serve as the driving force behind the regional plan’s ideation, planning, and implementation. The core group should be small but mighty—one or two representatives per community.
Local: Like building the regional committee, each PowerUP Committee member should create a local cohort of community leaders to facilitate planning in each of the six communities. The PowerUP Committee members will serve as community advocates, sharing local ideas and agendas with the larger regional team
learn about the state’s Leadership Certified Community designation
The Nebraska Department of Development invites communities to participate in the Leadership Certified Community (LCC) program. This program provides smaller communities with helpful resources, including a roadmap or outline of activities that help them become better organized for future growth and development. The designation “unlocks” different resources and opportunities from the state.
The PowerUP Committee could host a workshop or training session with Kelly Gewecke, the LCC Program Coordinator, to learn more about how to plug into this resource.
thinking long-term: strengthen community infrastructure
Sustainable economic growth requires a strong foundation of essential services. Communities interested in retaining and growing their population must provide adequate public infrastructure and access to critical services for overall community health.