Providing resources for communities and entrepreneurs to create and retain jobs in Antrim, Charlevoix, Cheboygan & Emmet Counties.

6 Ways to Create a Great Community

By Janet Koch, Community Development

Over the last few months, I have visited many municipalities in NLEA’s four-county region. Our cities, villages, townships, and counties each have wonderful and unique characteristics, but I’ve come across a common theme; “We don’t have the money to do what we want.”

Though many types of community development will require getting out the checkbook, there are other ways to improve the lives of your residents. Here are six:

1) Do nothing. Though we don’t recommend this, it is an option, especially if you think your community is already on the right track. But since you’re reading this article, it’s likely you have an interest in being even more proactive. If so, read on!

2) Celebrate the small things. You don’t have to wait for the construction of a new manufacturing facility or a new township hall to celebrate. Have some fun and cheer on the small things—after all, a lot of small things can add up to big changes. An example of a small celebration can be as simple as a fresh coat of paint in the board room. (Take before and after pictures!) Here are some ways to get the word out:

  • Press releases
  • Bulletin board flyers – libraries and senior centers are great for this
  • Print newsletters – include them with the tax bills
  • Enewsletters – collect a mailing list
  • Social media

3) Take advantage of your website.

  • Make sure your zoning ordinance is easy to locate. This may seem like a small thing, but having your zoning ordinance front and center helps residents, business owners, and anyone interested in the community’s attitude regarding growth.
  • Add placemaking elements. Not everyone knows about the cool things in your community, not even all the residents! For example, how many people know about the Hugh J. Gray Cairn in Antrim County? Or why Pellston is called the Icebox of the North? That the first stage in Mackinaw City’s Ironworkers Walk of Fame was built from tools donated by ironworkers across the US and Canada? Or that there are 25 recreation facilities in Hayes Township—and seven private facilities?
  • Add photos of elected officials and employees. While there is likely to be some resistance to this, including photos of the people that residents and visitors are likely to encounter can help create a more approachable atmosphere.

4) Work together. A governing body that works together can be a huge asset for a community. Conversely, a governing body mired in discord can be a huge negative. Imagine this: You’re a local entrepreneur considering a new business and know that you’ll have to approach a local unit of government to get the required permits. You open the newspaper or meeting minutes and read about postponed decisions and infighting. Why would you, as an entrepreneur, willingly walk into that type of environment? It’s far easier to choose another community for your business, one whose decision-makers treat others with respect and courtesy.

Evangeline Township has created a code of conduct they take so seriously it’s on their website. Read How we treat one another and consider how your organization might benefit from a respectful attitude that runs deep into the culture.

5) Talk up your successes. Make success stories—both current and historic—a part of your regular conversations. These can be as small as a new flagpole or as big as a collaboration that saves thousands of taxpayer dollars. How do you get the stories out there? Attend Rotary meetings, high school government classes, and chamber of commerce events. Tell your friends, neighbors, and relatives. Tell everyone! If you’re not excited about the great things in your community, who will be?

6) Smile! It doesn’t cost a thing and will brighten not only your day, but the day of everyone you meet.

If you’d like help with any of these ideas, from the use of social media to writing press releases, contact NLEA at 231-582-6482 or info@northernlakes.net.

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