Building a Stronger Iowa, One piece at a time
DCA Director Director Mary Cownie Citizens Advisory Board ChairTerry Lynch Vice ChairQuentin Hart Great Places Staff Francis Boggus Linda Howard
Creativity is the currency of the 21 st Century
► A Great Place has a Community-based Vision and Action Plan to improve the quality of life and economy of their area. ► In addition, they have already demonstrated pride and creativity.
Benefits of being a Great Place ► Collaborative community effort establishes priorities ► Coaches from State agencies guide you ► Grant dollars (if legislature approves) ► Preferential consideration for departmental grants ► The quality of life and economy in your place improve
Great Places leverage funds
Year 1 Exploratory Track ► Legislative Breakfast & Training ► Form local committees ► Complete Seven Dimensions ► Community Visioning Completed ► Attend training & Recognition Banquet ► Projects proposed
Year 2 Pre-proposal Track ► Legislative Breakfast & training ► Interdepartmental Coaching ► Pre-proposal Submitted ► Advisory Board Reviews and meet with applicant to determine readiness ► Coaching resumes ► Final proposal submitted ► Board visits finalists and designate GP ► Recognized at the GP Banquet
Year 3 Designation Period ► Work Plan Completed ► Legislative Breakfast & Proclamation ► Staff review projects ► Departmental grants completed & submitted ► Training ► Attend Annual Banquet
Visioning ► Utilize outside expert to facilitate ► Include all elements of your community ► Process is shared public information
7 Dimensions of a Great Place ► Unique sense of place ► Engaging experiences ► Sustainable Community & Pleasing Environment ► Rich, diverse Social Fabric ► Vital, Creative Economy ► Strong Foundation ► Creative Culture
Great Places cultivate the unique and authentic qualities that make it special
Obstacles to Becomng a Great Place ► Excellent leadership in team building & follow-up is required ► A large cohesive group of talented citizens must work very hard for a very long time
The Hedgehog Concept
Building a Stronger Iowa, one piece at a time