Rutland
Age (if entered):
27
What does Vermont mean to you?
Vermont means to me the ability to have "otherness" living and prospuring all in one community. It means to take pride in doing what is right for all instead of selfishly being concerned with your self. It means to have unwavering pride and boastfully speaking to those who don't know about us.
What common values do Vermonters share?
Our common values vary but progress towards equality is always been in the forefront of Vermont. Our agreement to support the future of Vermont and be sustainable also brings us common values.
What challenges and opportunities do we see for our communities and state?
The biggest challenge facing Vermont is its ideals vs. wants. Ideally we want to be rural and progressive, but we want better paying jobs and affordable housing. We wish for the private sector to grow but do not want to give up our social service programs.
What should our priorities be as we work together to prepare Vermont for the future?
The number one priority is how do we make our state attractive to clean, green, and Vermont friendly business that brings us funds to support our progressive and socially responsible ideas.
How do your thoughts about Vermont's values, future challenges and priority issues apply to YOUR community?
Rutland is a dieing town, business leaves left and right, leaving deep holes in our budget and edifice. The city needs a jump start of business arts and population if it plans to survive in the next century.