In so many of the communities Redevelopment Resources has worked, there is a desire to be excellent. We see it across the communities and organizations where projects begin and either proceed or become stalled. Many economic development practitioners, municipal employees, Main Street employees, board members and volunteers have a desire to do the best work they possibly can.
So why are there communities with incomplete projects, struggling downtowns, languishing industrial parks, a glut of vacant commercial real estate? And at the same time other communities are thriving with “NOW HIRING” signs on many of their businesses; have vibrant downtowns; and business owners are expanding?


It could be said that a lot of it has to do with attitude. The desire to be excellent, even in uncertain times is a force to be reckoned with. To excel at something means to be better or greater than another. Mediocrity on the other hand is the state of being neither very good nor very bad. In this challenging economy, there is no room for mediocrity. One must ask him/herself, “What else can be done?” “How can this problem be solved?” “How can this project be moved forward?”
It would be easy to say, “There isn’t money for that”, or “there is nothing we can do until the economy turns around”. Another common excuse is that a project won’t get the required votes from a council or committee.

1. Be encouraged to push beyond those excuses. Brainstorm solutions with coworkers.
2. Research like projects; chances are the same challenges have been met elsewhere in the world!
3. Find the money: consider non-traditional sources including private foundations or individuals in the community who have money and want to invest it in the right project. Put together an investor group of junior investors who want to get started developing projects and portfolios in the community.
4. Succeed in spite of the economy. Don’t be swayed by the reports in the media hype about the negative economy. Somebody’s doing well somewhere…… make it be your community!
5. A solid project needs a champion and a majority of votes, not unanimous support.
6. Be as clear and concise about your project, highlighting (and focusing on) the benefits to the community.
7. Look for financial and technical support in nontraditional places. Take on private sector advocates for projects like local bankers, real estate agents, utility representatives, private foundation representatives, attorneys, accountants, other stakeholders standing to benefit from the project (directly or indirectly).

Be BOLD, and be diligent! Your community will benefit from your efforts!