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Issues Overview

The Building Bridges Key Issue Area Committee addresses such critical goals as regional cooperation, leadership development, public/private collaborations, image and non-profit capacity.

Performance Measures

• Increase in non-profits statewide
• Creation of regional economic development groups
  
• Number of home town communities
  
• Consolidation of area governments/services/school districts
  
• Increase in number of public/private collaborations statewide
  
• Changes in National Livability ratings
  
• Improved external image of the state
  

• 4/24/2002
  "Vision Shared" concept of pooling resources is alive and well in north central West Virginia
  A concept outlined in the "Vision Shared" economic development strategy is working exceptionally well in the north central region of West Virginia -- pooling resources. The "Vision Shared" plan points to the very definition of regionalism, which tells us that we may achieve collectively what we cannot achieve individually. The plan encourages such teamwork, and the concept is bringing about the sweet smell of success. This article is authored by Ralph J. Bean, Jr., Chairman of the West Virginia Council for Community and Economic Development, which developed the "Vision Shared" plan. Mr. Bean is a former chairman and current member of the West Virginia Roundtable, and writes that pooling resources is an important part of the state's plan to create "a vibrant and diverse economy."
  
• 12/20/2001
  Tourism and economic development team up in West Virginia's Northern Panhandle
  The Mountaineer Race Track & Gaming Resort has done more than bring itself back to life and into the #7 spot in Forbes magazine's 200 Best Small Companies list. MTR Gaming Group and CEO Ted Arneault have set out to wipe the tarnish off of West Virginia's Northern Panhandle to make it an attractive tourism destination. Located less than an hour from Pittsburgh and nestled up against Pennsylvania and Ohio, Arneault said concepts of regionalism, employee loyalty and establishing a specific niche in the tourism and travel industry are responsible for his company's success.
  
• 7/24/2001
  Regionalism in West Virginia: Strength in Numbers
  The concept of regionalism is not a new one, with shining examples of cooperation among towns, cities, counties and regions across the U.S. In the wake of one of the most prosperous eras in our country's history, a number of West Virginia communities and counties are struggling to provide basic services, attract business and stimulate their economies. However, thinking and acting regionally has resulted in thriving progress throughout the U.S. This article, written by West Virginia Roundtable Public Relations Director Patrick Gregg, supports a recommendation of regionalism in West Virginia and demonstrates that we can collectively achieve goals we cannot reach individually.
  
• 6/21/2001
  West Virginia Public Broadcasting: A Partner in Economic Progress
  Part of the strategic plan released by the West Virginia Council for Community and Economic Development calls for a more positive role by the media. "West Virginia: A Vision Shared!" explains that the media can play a critical role in boosting West Virginia's image within the state and outside the state. This article is an interview with West Virginia Public Broadcasting Executive Director Rita Ray, who talks about covering hard news stories, maintaining objectivity and balance, and developing programming that highlights the positive aspects of West Virginia.