When you think of Valparaiso in 20-30 years, how do you want the city to be described? ValpoNEXT wants your input on big questions like this at the Community Summit on May 28, 6 pm to 8 pm at Valparaiso University’s Harre Union. “We’ll be asking participants to share their preferences and priorities for major initiatives — big ideas — based on the thousands of pieces of input received so far,” said Matt Evans, co-chair of the ValpoNEXT initiative. Participants will be given a hand-held voting device so answers can be tabulated in real time. “It’s going to be both fun and productive,” he said.
The ideas that will be presented at the summit came from a series of Big Idea workshops earlier this spring. These workshops were an opportunity for the entire community to share their insights on major opportunities before the community. “We’re pleased that so many diverse ideas came in. Now it’s time to finalize a list of the ideas that will make the cut. Attending the summit assures that your voice is heard,” said Elizabeth Lynn, co-chair of ValpoNEXT.
The summit will include a combination of small group discussions as well as interactive polling. “Decisions are being made right now that will affect all of us in the community as a whole. We don’t want people to miss out on this opportunity,” said Valparaiso’s Planning Director, Tyler Kent. People are encouraged to bring a friend or neighbor for this interactive evening. Parking is free.
Everyone is invited but please RSVP to save your seat at www.valponext.org/2014/04/save-your-seat-for-the-community-summit/. The ValpoNEXT visioning process will result in a specific implementation plan for Valparaiso’s next 20 to 30 years. The plan will be completed by this fall. To learn more about the ValpoNEXT visioning project, including directions to the Harre Union, visit www.valponext.org or find it on Facebook at “Valpo Next.” You may also call Tyler Kent with questions or to reserve your seat, 219-462-1161 x. 3331.