In 2005, the NewCities launched the NewCities Initiative in response to the growing reality that our world had changed dramatically in the 21st century. Economic and community development models of the 20th century had fallen by the wayside, and new global forces had been unleashed.
The NewCities Institute made an intentional decision to put its 12 Principles of Community Building to the test in communities throughout America.
NewCity Moscow - In September 2005, Moscow, Idaho became our first pilot project thanks to the bold and courageous leadership of Mayor Marshall Comstock and the Moscow City Council. Moscow is home the Idaho’s premier land grant university – the University of Idaho. For twelve months, the NewCities Institute worked with the citizens and leaders of Moscow to identify the hopes, dreams, and challenges as expressed by its citizens. Based upon citizen input, the NCI staff distilled the community’s core values through Community Listening Sessions and Community Charettes. In August, 2006, the NewCities Institute presented its strategic recommendations for improved communications, economic development, and community planning.
NewCity Morehead - In April 2006, Morehead, Kentucky became Kentucky’s first pilot project. The NewCities Institute utilized many of the lessons learned in Moscow to refine the processes employed in Morehead and Rowan County. A shortened timeframe gave a sense of urgency to the work, and the community responded. Community Listening Sessions were held in a variety of locations in the city and throughout the county as well as on the Morehead State University campus. Hundreds of citizens gave their thoughts and ideas about the future of their community. A series of multi-layered strategies emerged based upon the community’s core values. As a result, a community foundation was formed to implement the community’s vision and meets regularly to push the agenda forward. From the outset of the process, a strategic partnership was developed with the Morehead City Council, the Rowan County Fiscal Court, Morehead State University, the Rowan Campus of the Maysville Community & Technical College System, St. Clair Regional Medical Center, the Morehead-Rowan County Economic Development Council, and the Morehead-Rowan County Chamber of Commerce. The financial institutions provided monetary support for media and logistical needs.
Citizens are yearning to share their ideas with their community leaders. Given the chance, people will respond to transparent processes that result in a commitment to action. Both of these communities have proven time and again that they are committed to listening and responding to their citizens. More importantly, Moscow and Morehead are facing the challenges of global competitiveness by making wise and intentional choices to improve economic and social prosperity and foster a high quality of life.
People ask us “How do you do what you do?”
HERE’S HOW WE DO IT
Fragmentation happens! Rather than get bogged down by competing groups and organizations that often work at cross purposes, we encourage and help establish “collaborative communities” in which solutions for key issues are mutually determined.
Our community “listening sessions” are dynamic exercises in learning to truly hear everyone’s ideas. No debating. No interruptions. No rants. Just a chance for everyone to share their hopes, dreams and concerns for the future of their community, without interruption.
You set the course. Our job is to help your community define it. We transform your ideas into visual images through a charette process so that your imagination can become reality. Once the vision of your future is established, you can keep your eye on the prize—while instituting programs and policies for people who are already involved in the process themselves. Our community action plans provide the accountability your community needs to move forward toward success.
The NewCities Institute positions your community for success in the 21st century.
