Hudson -- Council members want more input on collaboration projects with neighboring communities according to statements made to city staff March 12 when they reviewed the strategic plan to develop the commercial and industrial base of Hudson.
The action plan developed by the city includes community-wide communication links, regional involvement of the community, regional perception of the community, provision and control of utility service, financial resources and fiscal sustainability and how to enhance Hudson as a great business location.
Mayor William Currin said there were a number of collaboration projects the city could consider for shared services and reducing costs.
Council member Alex Kelemen wanted the city to provide a list of various organizations and their goals and obligations the city could work with for services or funding.
Kelemen asked the city to provide updates as the action plan for a project progresses. He wanted to know why collaboration projects in the past didn't work and whether it was related to financial or strategic reasons.
Others agreed and Council member Dennis Hanink wanted ongoing evaluations and a mechanism to understand costs and benefits.
"If collaboration doesn't benefit the community, the cost isn't justified," Hanink said.
Council doesn't need a sit down presentation with every topic, but the city could provide reports, and Council could discuss information if necessary, said Council member Keith Smith.
Because Hudson has multiple neighbors, Council members wanted collaboration projects prioritized with Boston Heights at the top of the list.
"Sharing fire [departments] with Boston Heights may not work now, but it could work in the future," Smith said.
Projects due to be completed in 2013 for goal two -- develop commercial and industrial base -- include design a specific marketing plan for businesses by July; review commercial zoning district requirements and processes by September; provide a competitive rate structure for Hudson utilities by October; Develop metrics for measuring economic development by October; assess current broadband infrastructure and needs by November; study provision of Hudson water throughout the city by December; and summarize utilities at Seasons Road by December.
Council plans to discuss the third and final goal -- improve the efficiency, effectiveness, quality and availability of services at its March 26 workshop.
Email: lfreeman@recordpub.com
Phone: 330-541-9434
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