So how do you remove that skepticism?
The answer, she explained, is to make citizens part of the citys planning and problem-solving process.
The shared work made the results the citizens of Garys comprehensive plan, she explained.
Theyll own it and theyll own, we expect, the implementation.
Thats what Love My City is all about."
I ran for mayor of Gary because I love my city and its citizens.
His legacy was the inspiration for my public service.
This is especially true for city leaders.
We want to know about their hopes and aspirations and how we can support their achievement.
Citizens are always appreciative when they see a true effort to meet their needs.
In your opinion, what are the benefits of creating communities for all generations?
What sort of opportunities does such an initiative open up for residents?
After seeing the citys mayor mow the lawn herself, the neighbors generally follow suit.
In Gary, we have active programming for our youth through the Youth Services Bureau.
This is especially important in a community like ours with a high poverty rate.
All of these initiatives work together to make us a city for all generations.
What tools and resources can communities use to increase civic engagement and why is community engagement so important?
So many tools are available to promote civic engagement among citizens.
One-on-one and small group engagement always tops the list.
Every other week, I host 15 Minutes with the Mayor.
Residents can sign up to come in and talk to me about whatever is on their mind.
Social media and other technologies have become useful tools to communicate with and hear from citizens.
The use of other technologies are increasingly useful with citizen engagement, too.
We use aGary 311app so citizens can advise us of their need for city services.
Legacy Cities face unique challenges but also have unique assets.
Congrats to Jimmy on acquiring and maintaining Koney King … Congrats to Paul on 50 years in business."
It is both an honor and a challenge to lead a legacy city.
Its an honor because people around the globe recall Garys contributions to steel and manufacturing.
At the same time, its a challenge to inspire new investment to create a renaissance in our city.
The challenge also allows us to be creative in the way we develop opportunities for our citizens.
Legacy cities are special because of their historic contributions to our country.
But I believe legacyresidentsare the people who make our city truly special.
They almost take on the role of cheerleaderswho cheer for the resurgence of our city.
Its a joy to work for them.
How are you and the National League of Cities working to advance the discussion on this important issue?
The task force identified five areas of focus for a report that will include best practices and policy recommendations.
The task force will release its report to the public this July.
I look forward to sharing it with communities across the country then.
