If you are reading this update, you have accessed it through ReimagineChatham.org. A summary of this local initiative is presented there. If the objectives of this initiative are achieved, the effort has the potential to provide sustained funding for grants and studies for projects to help improve our community for the betterment of everyone. Here is where the effort stands as of the first of March.
- Background: Chatham Rotary Foundation, Chatham First, and the Rotary Club of Chatham teamed up to apply for a grant from a local Trust to develop a growth and renewal plan for Chatham and the adjacent area. The philanthropic Trust’s specifically focuses on business development and community improvement by promoting partnerships with community organizations and local government. The growth and renewal plan will be developed by a consultant expert in the process. The applicant was approved and the funding was received early this year, Then the work began. As defined in the application to the Trust, the grant will be administered by a steering committee comprised of the applicants, town of Chatham representatives, businesses, and other local interests.
- The Plan: The plan is intended to be a roadmap toward improving the business environment and quality of life in the town and immediate area. It is not about specific projects, such a walking trail. Rather, its adoption will create an “umbrella” or Vision/ master plan, under which desired improvements and specific projects may be undertaken. In most cases, these improvements can best be brought to success by a coalition of the Town of Chatham, civic groups, local foundations and trusts, and citizen involvement. Building out the Vision will be a long-term process. However, there is reason to believe that ongoing grant funding to help support these initiatives will be supported.
- Organizing: In late December, the organization of the steering committee began. The committee duties have been defined and staffing is essentially complete.
- Hiring an expert: Concurrent with organizing the committee, an RFP (Request for Proposal) describing the work to be done was completed. RFP’s were provided to three qualified firms in early January 2024 and replies /proposals were been received as of mid- February. A review of the proposals is currently underway with an objective of having the committee select a firm and have them under contract by the end of March.
- Public Information: Another critical aspect to success has begun. That aspect is public information. The success of this effort depends on broad and diverse public input. The study process will provide opportunities for obtaining public input addressing what people desire as a vision for Chatham’s future. This will be through focus groups and public meetings. It is important to understand that the plan is not the committee’s plan. The committee is simply there to administer the contract, support the independent work of the consultant, and facilitate their effort however needed.
In addition to the current information being disseminated through the Reimagine Chatham site, posters and cards have been developed and will be distributed through local businesses, member organizations, and other means. QR codes on the posters and cards will direct people to ReimagineChatham.org , where they can sign up for email updates and progress reports, like this one. Two press releases have been issued to The Star Tribune and Danville Register and Bee. The first was published in late December and the other in late February. A diligent effort will be made to reach as many people as possible within the community. For those who lack access to the automated information, the consultant will develop a process to notify as much of the local population as possible, perhaps though a mass mailing. - Going Forward: Once a consultant is under contract, they will develop a study schedule and begin the data gathering necessary to develop a draft of the Growth and Renewal Plan, a collective consensus Vision for Chatham’s future.