ECDI Director Joe Sumners Pens Chapter for Economic Development Book

Joe Sumners, director of the Economic and Community Development Institute, recently authored a chapter in a new book published by the Carl Vinson Institute of Government at the University of Georgia.

Sumners suggests that small towns are best served by promoting strong and diverse community leadership that is inclusive, collaborative and connected; an engaged citizenry and a community mindset of pride and optimism. According to Sumners, these characteristics of strong communities actually form the
foundation for prosperous small town economies.

He also recommends that small towns identify their unique assets, create and implement a strategic plan based upon a shared vision, and engage in internal and external partnerships. Finally, Sumners suggests that leaders in small communities must create community and regional crossroads -- organizations and structures that allow leaders to connect regularly and assess, plan and
work together -- for their efforts to be sustainable.

Sumners concludes,

Posted by dreynold at July 17, 2008 09:07 AM | TrackBack