The Observation Deck

Observers,

This month City Council unanimously approved, a resolution requesting Lakewood's participation in the National League of Cities Partnership for Working Toward Inclusive Communities.

This partnership unites city leaders who are working to support such issues as racial justice and inclusionary zoning as well as those who celebrate the diversity of race, religions and cultures in order to build communities that are accepting and representative of the difference among its citizens. Increased involvement by a wider representation of citizens in governmental activities will also be a hallmark of these inclusive communities.

"By joining this partnership, the City of Lakewood is not only reaffirming its dedication to its citizens locally, but its commitment to building a nation of inclusion," said National League of Cities President James C. Hunt, councilmember from Clarksburg, West Virginia.

Lakewood's participation in this important initiative is highlighted by a large front page (above of the fold--O.B.!!) picture and article in the Nation's Cities Weekly newspaper, a publication with a nationwide circulation of over 25,000. My picture supporting the resolution was featured with fellow supporters Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson and Cleveland City Council President Martin Sweeney.

The National League of Cities is the nation's oldest and largest organization devoted to good governance and to the promoting and strengthening of cities.

TJG

Hey TJ,

Thats a start. Lord knows you wouldnt wanna miss yet another photo op!
Now understand my question, what are we doing to attract more minorities to our city? How are we being more "inclusive'??




God Bless America!!!
Terry

Mayor George


Great news, every time we get good news it help to build the brand.


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Mayor George

Were Beth and Leon who Lakewood's legendary Health and Human Service Director, Dottie Buckon, was taking around the city to show them the wealth of programs we have for families and young people?

I stopped in on the lunch that was served at the Lakewood's Woman's Pavilion, it was very energizing talking with Leon and Beth. They mentioned they had never seen a city that was so in tune with youth and youth programs and programs that serve the diverse needs of the diverse community.

I know they were very moved with The Family Room, H20, and our school systems with Operation Care.

Keep up the good work.


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Jim,

Leon Andrews and Rebecca Makar are associated with the National League of Cities Institute for Youth, Education and Families headquartered in Washington D.C.

They were here for two days in July as part of a technical assistance grant (value over $25,000) awarded to the City of Lakewood and the Dept. of Human Services to assist in creating a Youth Master Plan for Lakewood.
Lakewood is one of a select few cities in the United States awarded this grant which is funded by MetLife.

Both Rebecca and Leon were very impressed with the work of our City's Youth Dept. including the Division of Early Childhood. Both were also impressed with the healthy relationship the City enjoys with the Schools and other major institutions in Lakewood. They stress putting petty political and territorial agendas aside and cooperating is the key to a city's effective delivery of youth services.

Sean Juris from the JayCees is the Chair of the Youth Master Plan Blue Ribbon Task Force. Key personnel from the Lakewood Public Schools, Lakewood Catholic Academy, Lakewood Rec. Dept., Lakewood Alive and other important community stakeholders are participating in the Youth Master Plan process as well as key City personnel.