Urban Renewal Passed by Voters Nov

Urban Renewal Passed by Voters Nov. 4, 2003	"The only bulwark of continuing liberty is a government strong enough to protect the interests of the people; and a people strong enough and well enough informed to maintain its sovereign control over the government." FD Roosevelt
Gresham's UR Link		Weed & Seed's Link
most efforts have a need for community involvement. Use this link to find out about how you can help
AFTER THE NOV. 4, 2003 ELECTION . . . Rockwood/West Gresham Urban Renewal was passed by Gresham voters on November 4, 2003. So what difference does it make? Instead of being stuck in the mode of trying to keep Rockwood afloat, we can look forward to what Rockwood will be. No overnight solutions but a road being paved toward a brighter future. What comes next? Yes, bureaucracy . . . if you can't beat it, join it . . .Urban Renewal is for our community and invites citizen/stakeholder involvement and input. Citizen/stakeholder advisory body(ies) will review and advise on plan components and options. From the advisory group, decisions will go to the "Development Commission" aka the City Council. Meetings are open to the public. Stay informed, and be a voice within your community. Informed voices and not quick reactions will bring comprehensive solutions. The City is in the midst of laying out the final steps needed. Some steps were able to be planned in advance, some required a firm "GO FOR IT" (by voters) before further planning. *With patience comes great rewards!* Money comes into the plan slowly, especially in the beginning, based on tax increment financing. Once funding sources, such as new business, etc. start moving to the area, money can be invested into the community on projects.	Miscellaneous Efforts: People for Parks Rockwood International Marketplace thru ECOS Rock Soup Event Stark St. Improvement Project Yamhill Green Street Project Yamhill Head Start Weed & Seed Innovative Loan Projects	Rockwood Weed & Seed is a strategy implemented through the Federal Department of Justice. The Rockwood Weed & Seed Program became operational in January 2003, after Rockwood qualified for the program because of Rockwood's blight and high crime characteristics. Weed & Seed Strategies are designed to "Weed" out detrimental community elements and "Seed" in positive community elements. The major focal points are: Crime Prevention Intervention Neighborhood Restoration Weed & Seed welcomes many community organizations to the table.