Chuck Marohn will present as part of the University of Central Arkansas' Community Development Institute (CDI).
Neighborhoods First (July 31)
Time: 5:30 - 7:30pm
Location: UCA Downtown (1105 W Oak St)
Risky, low returning projects too often become expensive boondoggles that haunt a community for decades. Public officials everywhere are desperately seeking an alternative. This talk will cover the "Neighborhoods First" approach to show how a community can grow stronger by making small, incremental investments over time. By observing how neighbors live their lives, by asking them where their daily struggles are, by getting out on the street and discovering what is actually going on, any local government can discern what their community’s pressing needs are. These projects are the high return investments and they are all around us.
A portfolio of incremental projects, each building on observed needs and past successes, is the basis of a solid, long term investment strategy for communities of any size. It is an approach that fits into every budget. It will empower a local government to move beyond the lack of ownership and control that comes with traditional grant programs. And most importantly, you can get started right now.
Refreshments will be served from 5 - 5:30pm. This event is open to the public but registration is required and tickets are $10.
Registration | Information
Curbside Chat Keynote (August 1)
Time: 8:00 - 9:15am
Location: University of Central Arkansas, McCastlain Ballroom
As a part of CDI 2018, Charles “Chuck” Marohn, Founder and President of Strong Towns, will present CDI’s Keynote Speaker presentation “The Curbside Chat.” During “The Curbside Chat” Marohn answers the question, “Why are so many cities and towns across North America going broke?”
Our roads are deteriorating. Our governments are in debt. No matter how much we increase them, our taxes aren’t enough to fix it all. And no one seems to be able to agree on how we got here—much less how to change the course. This isn’t just about numbers on a budget. This is about the fate of the communities we love most, and the real people that live there. This is about how to give our citizens, today and tomorrow, a chance at the future they deserve. If we want American cities to be strong and resilient we need to change everything about the way we plan and build our places.
In the Curbside Chat, Marohn explains, in plain language, how so many American cities have found themselves in decline after decades of “growth.” And then he shows participants a revolutionary way forward that could create enduring prosperity — if we just have the courage to change our minds.
This event is free and open to the public but registration is required.
Registration | Information
(Top photo source: photolitherland)
BONUS: Want to grab a drink with Chuck and your fellow Strong Towns members? Join us for a drink at Señor Tequila (1117 W Oak St) immediately following Chuck's Tuesday, 7/31 presentation (around 7pm.) Attendance at Chuck's speaking engagement is not required; feel free to bring a friend, and just ask for "Strong Towns" at the host stand.
RSVP below so we know to look out for you.