Back to the future
Tucked away in a much too inconspicuous place in the Council Chambers at Hillsboro City Hall, is the following declaration in the next column.
It was created several years ago during a focus session led by a facilitator from out of town.
According to Mayor Delores Dalke, the document was created at a time when she was concerned about the future of our community, and where we were going.
The consultant was hired to lead elected officials and community leaders through the process of planning for the future of Hillsboro.
According to Dalke, it was one of those times when it seemed the city was at a crossroads, as we are today.
The Mayor said she thinks it might be a good time to call that meeting again, to see where we are and where we are going, to ask what Hillsboro envisions itself to be.
We're glad it happened once.
The results are all around us.
Maybe it's time to study them again.
— GRANT OVERSTAKE
GUIDING PRINCIPLES
The Hillsboro of the future is a thriving community where
— Residents take pride in who and where they are.
— Residents live in a safe and supportive environment.
— Families and children thrive.
— Employment opportunities exceed expectations for a community of its size.
— Good educational opportunities exist in the public schools and local college.
— Health care exceeds expectations for a community of its size.
— Retail sector serves as the economic center within the surrounding area.
— Residents create a wealth of "social capital" through strong social networks.
— Faith-based institutions contribute to the community.
— Recreation and cultural opportunities exist for a wide range of interests and ages.
— Planning for the future is a way of life.
— Positive "can do" attitudes are the norm.
— Respect for the past provides strength for the future.
