Main Street Revitalization in Beattyville (5 of 12) Posted: April 30, 2002
Get Ready, Company is Coming!
Submitted: 11 Feb. 2002
By: Larrey Riddle
Something exciting happened in Beattyville last Thursday night. It was not particularly Earth shattering. And, if you came to town Friday morning, nothing appeared any different. In fact, unless you spoke to one of the forty-five people who were there and witnessed it, you might not even know that something fundamental had changed.
So, what was it?
Simply this. People decided to take the future into their own hands. Forty-five people, from all walks of life, decided that they could effect how the future settles on their community. An organization was formed. As of now, it is an organization without a name, without a charter, and without leadership. Those details will be worked out at the next meeting. The amazing part of this is that people realized that if things are going to change, it had to be fueled by them. Not by government. Not by some of the myriad of non-profit organizations dedicated to “help” the people of the region. But, by the people whose futures are at stake. Government and non-profits are an important part of the solution. They can provide funds and technical assistance. Last Thursday night forty-five people decided to take the first step in making changes to their community. They decided to improve things themselves.
The meeting began with the agenda of forming a downtown association, looking to starting the process of a Main Street revitalization project. The merchants with shops downtown were well represented, but everyone saw the need for an organization that was more inclusive. After all, most of the people who work in Beattyville live not in town, but out in the county. The vitality of both is linked. The futures of both are inseparable. Those plans may include a Main Street project. They may include looking at ways to generate more business for merchants. The plans may include attracting new businesses. It may include developing a tourism infrastructure. Whatever direction this newly found organization decides to go, the biggest step has been taken.
Naming the organization, electing officers, and setting short and long term goals will all be dealt with at the next meeting. It will take place February 21st, at 7:00 p.m. at the P.E.P. Coalition offices. You are invited.
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