Community input part of Libertyville's strategic plan process
A monthslong process that will include community focus groups and other measures is about to be launched in Libertyville to create a strategic plan.
Guided by the Northern Illinois University Center for Governmental Studies, the process will build on a recently completed community survey to develop a multiyear plan that includes clear priorities and measurable targets. The NIU Center was chosen from among four proposals from consultants who specialize in this type of work at a cost not to exceed $25,000.
"In a shorthand way, it's leadership's expression of the future," said Greg Kuhn, the center's assistant director. "It's about looking over the horizon, `Where do we want to go as a community?' "
Developing a strategic plan is one of the village board's goals for 2016-17. In its request for proposals, the village identified needs to be addressed, including public input to ultimately produce an easy to understand document outlining priorities and direction.
"Strategic planning is a designed conversation," Kuhn said. "It takes over place over several weeks if not months."
Libertyville has selected a six-month process, with details of initial activities to be determined next week.
Kuhn also has been working with Long Grove on an update of its strategic plan, which is scheduled to be presented to the village board next week.
"It keeps things moving forward and keeps us focused," Village Manager David Lothspeich said of the plan that has been updated several times during his 14-year tenure. "It's one of the first things we did when I came on board."
In an example provided by the NIU Center, financial strength could be a desired outcome with bond ratings as an indicator of progress. In that case, a goal to attain a given bond rating is the listed target with various initiatives as the means to get there.
While meetings with elected leaders and key staff is an important part of the process, so is "stakeholder outreach, input and community engagement" exercises to ensure community survey results are used to help shape the final product.
Approaches include focus groups of eight to 15 people representing various perspectives to provide "on the ground" input from residents and stakeholders. Two or three community forums in which participants vote anonymously on various questions via electronic keypads, is also part of the process.
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