Share views on transportation, public facilities

Do you have any concerns or ideas on how the transportation system or the conditions of the roads are due to impact of the oil boom? Is the maintenance of the roads, streets, alleyways or public infrastructure important to you?

If so, then you are an excellent candidate to attend the “Transportation” concurrent session at the second annual “State of the Community” County-wide Conference to be held Jan. 23.

During this session you will be able to participate in the open discussion on the topics of: the maintenance, improvements and safety on all major routes in Richland County for drivers and pedestrians; future and placement of Sidney truck route; transportation infrastructure for agricultural needs; and the support and expansion of current public transportation options, such as the Richland County Transportation Service.

The session discussion topics are derived from the Richland County Growth Policy’s goals and objectives, and the Richland County Community Strategic Plan. The goals and objectives were identified by the county residents who participated in the public meetings held by the City/County Planning Board in 2006.

Each concurrent session will be led by a local facilitator. Their job is keep the conversation focused on the topic as your input is essential to the implementation and updating process of the Growth Policy and Strategic Plan.

This is your opportunity to become involved in addressing the future needs of our communities. Your participation, comments, ideas and concerns are the key to help us address the issues and challenges we face here in Richland County. So please come Jan. 23 to the second annual county-wide conference to help us ensure our policies are put into action, and to continue to ensure they are updated.

The future of Richland County belongs to its’ residents, and at the “State of the Community” at the St. Matthew’s Parish Center everyone will have a chance to make their voice part of the community’s plans and actions.

For more information about the conference or to register, please contact Marcy Hamburg at the Richland County Planner Office at 433-6886, or by e-mail at mhamburg@richland.org. Online registration is also available on the planning Web site at http://www.richland.org/planning.

Everyone in the community is also welcome to join the action groups. If you would like to attend a meeting or learn more, please contact Becky Hayes at the Richland County Health Department at 433-2207, or by e-mail at rhayes@richland.org.