Neighborhood Organization
The existing neighborhood organizational structure is weak. While, there is strong institutional presence and the commitment of C.O.R.E. and very strong leadership in adjacent neighborhoods (e.g. Historic Midtown Citizens' Association), grass roots resident involvement is lacking. Similarly, the high concentration of business owners are not engaged in a way that adds value to neighborhood planning and development. In fact, most of the local business community is able to independently operate without making any significant contribution to the neighborhood. Businesses may not see themselves as neighbors, especially in an area where there is little neighborhood definition.
C.O.R.E., with help from the City, will need to continue to reach out to all segments of the neighborhood to engage them as partners. Identifying and contributing resources for training and technical assistance for local leadership to be enhanced is a prudent investment. Additionally, continuing to communicate and keep information about neighborhood planning as public as possible will help to spread the message about C.O.R.E.'s work and ways that people can join in the effort.
Forming and expanding partnerships, both public and private, among many of the key stakeholders in the neighborhood is an excellent way to create excitement and involvement. Early accounts have shown that there is a definite willingness and interest on behalf of a number of key players within and outside of the Center City Neighborhood. This seems to suggest that more involvement will come as a plan is developed and stakeholders know what opportunities exist and how they can assist.
In the short term, thought should be given to creating a small neighborhood council or association representing the Center City area. Currently, such a grass-roots organization does not exist. This group could complement the C.O.R.E. Council and serve in an advisory capacity regarding important neighborhood issues. Business owners could also be represented or perhaps encouraged to form a separate entity geared toward some of their common issues and concerns regarding the neighborhood. Since too many organizations can often lead to unnecessary bureaucracy, the City or C.O.R.E. would need to play an active role in facilitating and coordinating the work of these organizations so that their roles are complementary, and not conflicting.