Published February 18 2015
In the first Neighborhood Leadership Gathering of the year, interested residents can join in a conversation about economic growth and its effect on neighborhoods. The featured speaker will be James Henderson, the city's new economic development director.
The event, "How Bellevue's Economic Growth and Neighborhoods Can Prosper Together," takes place 6:30-8 p.m. Thursday, February 26, in room 1E-108 at City Hall, 450 110th Ave. NE.
As the economy booms and the population grows, as new businesses open their doors and workers move to Bellevue from across the nation and around the world, how are neighborhoods affected? What are the factors that keep our local economy healthy? Henderson will discuss economic growth and address questions about potential impacts.
Following the economic development discussion, Paul Inghram, Bellevue's comprehensive planning manager, will briefly highlight the new neighborhood chapter in the city's draft Comprehensive Plan, which is currently being updated. The last update was in 2004.
After the presentations and discussion, attendees can take part in informal networking and speak with Neighborhood Outreach staff who will be on hand to assist leaders with specific neighborhood needs and answer questions about programs. Neighborhood Outreach Manager Mike McCormick-Huentelman will host the evening.
Neighborhood association members, emerging leaders and those interested in becoming more involved in their neighborhood or the community are encouraged to attend. The gatherings, which take place twice a year, give neighborhood leaders an opportunity to voice their opinions on important community issues from a neighborhood perspective.
The event is free and light refreshments will be served. Please RSVP to neighborhoodoutreach@bellevuewa.gov or call 425-452-6836.