As mayor of Gary, Indiana, Karen Freeman-Wilson has dealt with her fair share of “squeaky wheels” – citizens who regularly press for some kind of resolution to the issues that concern them. But she also knows that there are lots of “non-squeaky wheels” who may not speak up but deserve just as much attention from their local government. Freeman-Wilson wants to make sure that all of her citizens feel like they have a voice and their needs are being met. That’s key to successful government.
In Gary, Mayor Freeman-Wilson’s administration has developed several programs to include the “non-squeaky wheels” in the civic engagement process:
5x5x5 Revitalization Program
A variety of challenges over the years have left Gary with a multitude of abandoned homes and businesses. Since 2013, the 5x5x5 Revitalization Program has been bringing together local residents, business owners, civic organizations, faith groups, and other community stakeholders to revitalize long-neglected neighborhoods. They work in five-block areas over the course of five weeks on everything from abandoned building demolition and board up to beautification to information and resources. Residents gain a new sense of hope as they see their neighborhoods take a turn for the better.
Vacant to Vibrant Program
The city has partnered with the Cleveland Botanical Garden to transform vacant urban properties into vibrant, lush, and eco-friendly green spaces. These lot-sized public parks not only improve the community but also work to effectively manage and control storm water.
Communities for All Generations
Mayor Freeman-Wilson says that communities often focus on issues and activities for their youth. They forget about creating a place where seniors feel comfortable in the community they’ve invested in all their lives. In Gary, the Communities for All Generations program has earned the city a designation as an AARP age-friendly community. They focus on improving the quality of life for seniors in a variety of ways, including a Senior Summit to provide resources and services to the senior population; engaging community partners; and ensuring that public spaces and events cater to all ages.
The bottom line for civic engagement? “We want you to say you love your neighborhood and community as much as we do,” says Mayor Freeman-Wilson.