Regional neighborhood conference set to open
- Details
- Published on Wednesday, 18 September 2013 17:08
- Written by Paul Gordon
The 2013 Regional Neighborhood Network Conference, where a coalition of big and small Midwestern cities converge to discuss ways to improve their neighborhoods, will be Thursday through Saturday at Four Points Sheraton.
More than 400 representatives from 22 Midwestern cities will participate in discussions and exchange ideas that could transform troubled neighborhoods. "We look forward to the opportunity to showcase Peoria's diverse Neighborhoods and committed Neighborhood Leaders," said a release from Peoria City Hall.
Last spring, after a meeting the the RNNC's steering committee in Peoria, local officials lauded the work of the organization, which has included Peoria the last 25 years. "This really is one of the most important organizations that Peoria is part of, in my opinion, because the cities represented all help each other find ways to improve their neighborhoods," said Paul Masick, president of the Peoria Neighborhood Alliance.
Peoria City Councilmen Eric Turner and Ryan Spain, both advocates of strong neighborhoods and the council's chief drivers of the Warehouse District, spearheaded the drive for the 2013 RNNC to be in Peoria. It was last here in 2001.
"It is an honor and pleasure to have an opportunity to showcase our wonderful city with all its amenities, including our dedicated neighborhood advocates. The city understands that an event of this magnitude will need strong community partnership with Peoria's key stakeholders to be successful," Turner said after that committee meeting in March.
Spain noted that the RNNC is a success because it involves not only neighborhood organizations but civic, political and business leaders of the communities. Locally, that includes leaders from Caterpillar Inc., CEFCU and Illinois-American Water Co.
Another key sponsor is the Peoria Area Association of Realtors, which stays tuned in to what is happening in area neighborhoods.
Dallas Hancock, CEO of the Realtors Association, commended local leadership for bringing the conference to Peoria. "A city is only as healthy as its neighborhoods. Each year this conference brings ideas and people together to focus on a common goal of improving their neighborhoods. As an All-American City, Peoria needs to be a leader in improving the quality of life in all its neighborhoods by exchanging challenges and success with other communities in the region," she said Hancock.
The conference begins at 2 p.m. Thursday and keynote speakers include Dr. Chuck Stoney, a professor of management and leadership at Bradley University and the author of several books about management. Also speaking is Dave Meslin, a dynamic community innovator from Toronto.
Breakout sessions are scheduled for Friday and Saturday, with local trips and events planned for the evenings.
For more information on the RRN Conference visit www.peoriagov.org/community-development/neighborhood-development-division/regional-neighborhood-network-conference-rnnc/
Illinois cities involved in the RNNC are Peoria and Decatur. Indiana cities are Indianapolis, Evansville, Ft. Wayne, Muncie, Richmond, South Bend and Terre Haute.
Kentucky cities are Bowling Green, Covington, Lexington, Louisville and Owensboro. Ohio cities are Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton, Lima, Springfield and Toledo. Tennessee is represented by Memphis and Knox County.
"While representatives of the member cities typically interact face-to-face, a minimum of two times per year at Steering Committee meetings, the friendships have become long-standing opportunities for resource sharing through technology. All conference collaborations are conducted in a non-partisan manner. This interaction among the city representatives has transcended party politics and is based simply on trust, respect, and genuine friendships that have evolved," the RNNC said.
