A History of Disinvestment  Inauspicious beginnings  Persistent poverty  Lingering effects of segregation It all adds up to a persistent bad reputation—often inaccurate, but still damaging.

Systematic Change is Needed To break these vicious cycles, Opa- locka needs systematic reeducation:  Strategies that help existing businesses and residents do better  Strategies to promote the City's assets and attract new investment This will require new partners: nonprofits and quasi-public agencies.

Three Clusters of Strategies  Strategy Cluster I: Traditional Economic Development Services  Strategy Cluster II: Build on Opa-locka’s Assets  Strategy Cluster III: Address Image and Identity Issues

Strategy Cluster I: Traditional Economic Development  Make use of existing programs  Cultivate regional dominance in niche markets  Help existing business expand  Provide access to capital for micro- enterprises and small businesses  Attract new businesses and encourage entrepreneurship  Nurture a well-trained and skilled workforce

Strategy Cluster II: Build on Opa-locka’s Assets  Enhance and promote the City's distinctive character and identity  Improve the built environment  Develop tourism geared towards culture  Address potential housing glut  Implement a strategic capital improvements program  Capitalize on the Airport

Strategy Cluster III: Address Image Issues  Confront crime  Revive services organizations  Make the case for Opa-locka as a place to live, work and visit  Stay the course!

These Strategies Should:  Get more dollars circulating in the local economy  Let those dollars circulate through the local economy longer  Improve Opa-locka’s attractiveness as a real estate investment  Boost Opa-locka’s reputation as a viable choice as a place to live, work, and visit