A series of events to transform Richland County neighborhoods kicks off this fall with several programs and projects, including an outdoor dinner to bring together 100 residents for a community conversation.
Under the theme “connections make community,” the events spearheaded by the County's Planning Services Division are part of Engage Richland, the County’s year-round program that encourages residents to learn more about their local government. The “connections make community” events are designed to connect County residents to their surrounding neighborhoods, neighborhoods to the larger community and the community to local government resources.
“Planning Services has, through the work of the Neighborhood Improvement Program, had a focus on the comprehensive health and prosperity of County neighborhoods for 13 years,” said Ashley Powell, Planning Services Division Manager. “As the program progresses, it’s critical that residents join staff in working toward the vision of happier, healthier, more productive neighborhoods. This series of events implores residents to do exactly that – it invites citizens to engage in the path forward for where they live.”
The events range from service projects and block parties to informative workshops about the County budget and grant opportunities. The programs begin in October with a “neighborhood toolkit” series that guides neighborhood leaders through the process of creating bylaws, a vision, mission, goals and objectives for their communities.
The headlining event is an outdoor dinner that will bring together 100 residents for a candid and productive conversation about making positive changes in Richland County. “100 Plates: Conversation. Collaboration. Change.” will be held outside Friday, Oct. 26 at Columbia Place Mall. The dinner will include a presentation of 100 things to love about Richland County as told by residents.
Other upcoming events include “Making Government Work for You,” a panel discussion about government processes; “Exploring Your Earth Day;” and “Getting to Know Your Budget.”
“We are excited about this lineup of citizen-centric events with the potential for impacts that will be both far reaching and long lasting for the County’s many neighborhoods,” said Neighborhood Planner Erin Brooks. “We will emphasize the importance of community, showing residents how we are better able to move Richland County forward when we work together.”
All of the events are free but some require registration. For more information, visit the Richland County webpage at richlandcountysc.gov and click the featured article, or go directly to richlandcountysc.gov/residents/engagerichland. Contact the Richland County Planning Services Division at 803-576-1379 for details.