MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR – APRIL ECONOMY

I firmly believe that strengthening our economy is crucial to the success of our city. That’s why I was pleased to join with my fellow public and private sector leaders to announce the formation of a new economic development organization – Greater Fort Wayne Inc.

Greater Fort Wayne Inc. presents a unified vision for a new era of collaboration and positive momentum that will make Greater Fort Wayne the best that it can be.
The recent announcement was the culmination of efforts, begun last year, to examine the possible coordination of economic development activities throughout our region, with the goals of stronger alignment and increasing the competitive position of the community.

A steering committee with representatives from the business community, the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance, the Greater Fort Wayne Chamber of Commerce, the Downtown Improvement District, the City of Fort Wayne, and Allen County have been studying the benefits of creating a more competitive, opportunity-rich community by aligning our economic development efforts. The new organization was created following a thorough analysis and benchmarking of what other cities that have experienced.

The goals and objectives of Greater Fort Wayne Inc. are to achieve more with a common vision, grow jobs, create entrepreneur-rich landscape, attract talent, increase business investment, engage and develop leaders and enhance the community’s overall competitiveness.
On another note, this Friday, April 26, Parks & Recreation Director Al Moll will join 2nd and 3rd grade pupils from Waynedale Elementary School to celebrate Arbor Day by planting trees next to the school on McArthur Drive.

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NIPSCO donated five Tulip trees, four Red Oaks and one Bur Oak to be planted on McArthur Drive and will present each child in attendance with a seedling to plant on their own property. NIPSCO is a longtime member of Tree Line USA – a designation given by the Arbor Day Foundation to companies that employ best practices in utility arboriculture.

Director Moll and I believe that our community is enriched by teaching our children how important it is to nurture our urban forest, in spite of such challenges as the Emerald Ash Borer infestation. We know that raising awareness about our tree canopy is the best way to ensure the message will spread to the next generation.
One final note, I also encourage all interested residents to participate in the “Revealing Our Rivers” Initiative on Saturday, May 4 from 8 a.m. to noon. The event – hosted by the Friends of the Parks of Allen County – was originally going to be held in April, but had to be rescheduled due to high water conditions.

They’re seeking volunteers, age 18 or older, to help reveal the beauty of our downtown rivers by cleaning up trees, invasive species, trash and debris left on the riverbanks. To register, contact Robin Holley at robin_holley@comcast.net or 260-417-3804. No experience is necessary.