Coping With Economic Meltdown
How strong is your local economy? Is there a role for planning commissioners in addressing local economic development? The first of a series of short articles by Gwendolyn Hallsmith.
Economic Development
Economic development is vital for most communities. But what kind of development and where it best fits are often challenging questions.These articles & postings consider various aspects of planning for local economic development.
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Libraries at the Heart of Our Communities
There’s been a dramatic change in the mission of a growing number of libraries across the country. No longer just static repositories of books and reference materials, libraries are increasingly serving as the hub of their communities, providing a broad range of services and activities.
Audacious … or Realistic?
I met with planners trying to deal with the large amounts of vacant land in Cleveland’s inner-city neighborhoods. Their approach to turn things around: implementing creative, green-oriented strategies.
Main Street Mill: “The Perfect Trifecta”
I returned to the small town of Richford, Vermont, as the starting point of my travel plans for this Spring. I had visited Richford last Summer to first learn about the Main Street Mill redevelopment.
21 Bright Ideas: Special Issue of the Planning Commissioners Journal
Our Winter and Spring 2006 issues featured 25 bright ideas on a wide range of topics — ranging from walkable neighborhoods to meeting workforce housing needs, from commissioners “on tour” to how art can transform a street.
Energy Conservation & Community Planning
Our pattern of land development can have a significant impact on energy consumption. A growing number of local governments are taking steps to promote energy conservation.
Taking the Mystery Out of Economic Development
According to consultant Otis White, many cities and towns focus their economic development efforts on encouraging relocations. Instead, time and money would be better spent on fostering the growth of local businesses.
Education and Economic Development
Jack McCall explains why quality education is of critical importance to the economic vitality of cities and towns.
Community Loan Funds for Business Development
A short introduction to the use of community loan funds by community development specialist Jack McCall.
Involving All of the Community
Why economic development efforts work best when a broad spectrum of the community is involved.
Up With Downtown
Community development consultant and author Jack McCall with some ideas on strengthening downtown retailing.
Finding Economic Development At Home
How to keep money from leaving your local economy.
Design Matters
Good design can mean more jobs, more tourists, and increased property values.
