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Liberty… For All Background
In February 2007 the city formed a Liberty…For All initiating committee. Its job was to create the foundation for the visioning and strategic planning process and encourage citizens to get involved. The committee made a call for citizen involvement through newspaper ads, phone calls, and talks with neighbors. The goal was to organize a body that would represent as many demographic groups as possible in Liberty.
A total of 164 people, called stakeholders, answered that call. Citizens with different views, different needs, and different experiences came together to create a strategic plan for Liberty. The group that became the core of this process came from all walks of life—stay-at-home parents, small-business owners, builders, developers, high school students, college students, the list goes on. The National Civic League led the way and set some ground rules: no personal attacks; agree to disagree; everyone participates; make decisions by consensus; stay on the topic at hand; take a risk; and have fun.
Early in the process, participants chose which “Key Performance Area” (KPA) they were most interested in: Community Partnerships, Economic Engine, Infrastructure, or Quality of Life. The large group stood up and people made their choice. Amazingly—it was almost a perfect four-way split.
With Liberty…For All stakeholders now self-selected into the four KPAs, it was time to work. Each group met independently to brainstorm about their dream for Liberty.
Throughout the eight-month planning process, each KPA presented its progress to the broader stakeholder group. These presentations provided an opportunity for feedback, buy-in, and eventually agreement on the final plans. Out of that brainstorming, came concrete goals, action steps, and ultimately the final report.
The Liberty…For All community vision and strategic plan is the culmination of hundreds of hours of volunteer hours by Liberty’s most valuable asset: its residents.
Liberty… For All Vision
Liberty is a diverse and welcoming community, inclusive of people of all income levels, races, lifestyles and religions. Residents find Liberty a safe, family-friendly and environmentally conscious community that values its unique heritage while being mindful of the need to be progressive both economically and culturally.
Liberty recognizes and preserves her heritage. The historic downtown square, historic landmarks and historic homes are preserved and valued.
Liberty entices new businesses and industries which provide more employment opportunities, goods and services. Residential and business growth are balanced, providing a stronger tax base. The city spends tax dollars wisely so that city services can meet the needs of our growing community.
Recreation opportunities, diverse businesses and the unique history of our city promote increased tourism and make it a “destination city” within our four-state area. Residents find necessary goods, services, recreation, cultural activities and entertainment within the city limits.
Traffic flow is optimized throughout the city and infrastructure keeps pace with growth. The city and community are progressive in incorporating new technology.
Liberty encourages excellence in education for all students, including early childhood services and post high school education opportunities.
Liberty is a cohesive community with solid relationships and good communication between city government, citizens, William Jewell College and the Liberty School District.
Citizens actively participate in implementing change in the city and share a feeling of unity, ownership and pride in the community.
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