The retreat was held at the Murray State University Paducah Regional Campus and was facilitated by Julia Novak, president of the Novak Consulting Group.
Wednesday night, everyone met for several hours to discuss topics such as good governance, governing relationships and roles among those who participate.
Thursday’s agenda included each commissioner sharing their view of the future of Paducah, and a group review of events and actions that have shaped the city over five decades.
When asked how they would like Paducah to be labeled ten years from now, five labels were presented - Hitting our Stride; A New Paducah; Growth and Progressive; A Wonderful Place to Live and Work; and A Leader in Innovation and Modern Economic Growth.
The Board then brainstormed to develop categories in which to place specific projects, programs, or policies. That process then led to each board member listing specific priorities for the city over the next 12 to 24 months.
From more than three dozen ideas that were presented and two rounds of voting, 13 priorities came to the forefront:
•Develop a clear process for managing constituent service requests;
•Continue with the implementation of the Enterprise Resource Planning software;
•Implement performance-based budgeting;
•Update the Paducah Human Rights Commission;
•Develop the riverfront area that used to be the site of the Executive Inn (this area is also called the Commons);
•Complete current projects that are underway including the Comprehensive Storm Water Master Plan, City Hall Phase I Rehabilitation, and the Noble Park Tennis Court Shelter/Restroom Facility;
•Develop a comprehensive infrastructure improvement plan;
•Develop a bike plan for connecting and recreation;
•Launch a neighborhood empowerment model;
•Establish a creativity/arts commission;
•Assist local community groups with their growth plans;
•Develop a shared agenda with McCracken County;
•Develop a regional 911 collaboration agreement.
The next step is for the management team to work with commissioners to define these priorities and develop a work plan that considers staffing, necessary resources, and timelines. Novak suggested that everyone ask two questions during this stage: 1. What problem are we solving, or what opportunity are we seizing? and, 2. What does success look like?
The retreat ended with each participant providing their reflection on a day filled with hard work, great discussions, and a variety of ideas.
Commissioner Sarah Stewart Holland quoted the character Jimmy Dugan from the movie, A League of Their Own. Dugan said, "It's supposed to be hard. If it wasn't hard, everyone would do it. The hard ... is what makes it great."
