Neighborhood improvement, financial empowerment and improving quality of life are at the heart of an upcoming free conference that welcomes residents from across Richland County.
At the first Upgrade Together Conference, Richland County officials will discuss the importance of collaboration between County departments and local communities and will provide practical tips to revitalize neighborhoods, tap into County services and boost the quality of daily life for residents. At Upgrade Together, attendees will learn about:
· Housing options in Richland County
· Options to lower mortgage payments
· Tips for reducing household energy usage
· Planning, Zoning and County regulations
Attendees will also receive information about Richland County's updated Comprehensive Plan, which is an adopted 20-year plan that sets the vision for the County’s future growth, development and preservation.
“Planning staff worked diligently and conducted a public planning process to produce the updated Comprehensive Plan (Plan),” said Richland County Planning Director Tracy Hegler. “We are extremely proud of what was created and want to educate our residents about how the adoption of the Plan will shape the County’s future growth. We also want to continue to get their feedback because the buy-in from our citizens is what will make implementation of the Plan a success.”
The conference will offer insight about student housing, reducing residential energy costs and mortgage payments, and what planning and zoning ordinances exist in neighborhoods. County officials from a variety of departments, real estate agents, home maintenance specialists and housing professionals will be on hand. In addition, a special town hall forum will feature Richland County Council Chairman Torrey Rush.
Upgrade Together, which is hosted by Richland County’s Community Development Department and the Neighborhood Improvement Program, takes place 8 a.m.-2 p.m. Saturday, June 13 at Richland Northeast High School, 7500 Brookfield Road, Columbia. Free breakfast and lunch will be provided and door prizes, such as an iPad Mini and local store gift cards, will be awarded.
“You may come out initially for the free meals and a chance to win great door prizes, but you will leave with a wealth of information that will make you happy you attended,” said Valeria Jackson, Richland County Director of Community Development. “The information will enhance your home and your neighborhood.”
To register for free, click here or visit the “Upcoming Events” tab at www.rcgov.us. For more information about Upgrade Together, email powella@rcgov.us or call 803-576-2166.