The Fall 21 Change Academy featured a three-part deep dive into CITY PLAN 2040 on three consecutive Monday evenings, October 25 through November 8, 2021 from 6:30 to 8 PM.
Over the course of four books, we’ve explored racism from a historical perspective, through its personal and longstanding impacts, and how it started as a tool for profit and grew to shape public policy. In each of our discussions we’ve focused on what we can do individually and locally to impact a complex and layered system.
In December 2020, Roanoke City Council approved CITY PLAN 2040, intended to advance the community around a variety of central themes. “Interwoven equity,” a theme of its own, is also woven into all parts of the plan. In a three-part series, we’ll meet virtually with City staff and community leaders to understand the goals; we’ll hear about City strategies to accomplish them in an equitable manner; and we’ll meet community partners organized to work alongside the City to advance our collective goals. Participants will also have a chance to share relevant reading recommendations for better understanding.
As a result, we’ll identify how the efforts of individuals, community organizations and civic clubs align with the plan and will further shape it, as we collaborate for greater impact in our city.
CITY PLAN 2040 is available online. Additionally, copies are available at the desks of City of Roanoke Library branches.
SCHEDULE & NOTES:
Monday, October 25th — Overview and Interwoven Equity (pages 1-43).Our guests included Assistant City Manager Chris Chittum and Total Action for Progress Vice President of Economic and Real Estate Development Angela Penn.
Monday, November 1st — Healthy Community, Harmony with Nature, & Livable Built Environment (pages 44-87). Guest: Director of Parks and Recreation Michael Clark.
Monday, November 8th — Responsible Regionalism and Resilient Economy (pages 88-103). Guests: Aisha Johnson, Roanoke City Economic Development and Tommy Page, NuFocus Group.
BOOK CITY ★ Roanoke 