Last week, I wrote a blog about how far Delray Beach has strayed since the days when Florida Trend referred to the city as the best run town in Florida.
I received a tremendous response indicating that the piece struck a nerve.
That was the intent; with an admonition for citizens to get involved. We can and must do better.
But while the piece was mostly “diagnostic” outlining where we’ve gone off track, one gentleman wrote to me and asked for solutions.
I don’t claim to have all or even some of the answers. Nobody does. The whole point is for citizens to get involved because I believe that the more stakeholders are at the table the better we are as a community.
But aside from involvement and voting (too few of us do) here are a few thoughts on how we can fix what’s ailing us.
Unfortunately many of these ideas are hard to accomplish during a pandemic but we can surely lay the groundwork now for a civic comeback later.
I’m limiting my list to community unity concepts because we have to repair the civic fabric before we can heal and move forward.
There are a slew of other things we will need to do to rebuild the economy but for now let’s concentrate on unifying the community.
Here are a few ideas:
Get back to citizen driven planning and visioning. —Delray was built on grass roots involvement in crafting a vision for the future. We haven’t had a large scale all hands on deck planning and visioning exercise in many years. It’s time to invite citizens to the table to talk about our future. Nature abhors a vacuum and in the absence of a vision we have invited petty politics to take over. It’s time for a new vision that includes everyone. You know you’ve gone wrong when commissioners focus on each other and not the vision. In the absence of a vision it’s inevitable.
Restore civic education—Delray was once known for its efforts to engage the community through efforts such as the Residents Academy, Youth Council, Elder Ready Task Force and Police Academy. These efforts enabled citizens to learn about their city and to volunteer for boards etc. It was invaluable. A great way to connect people to their hometown.
Bring back community dinners—The Commission I served on created Community Dinners where we invited diverse neighborhoods to gather at Old School Square for a potluck dinner and fellowship. Commissioners and senior city staff attended and facilitated conversations covering topics of concern to the neighborhoods. The low cost, high impact events built relationships and bridged divides. Those evenings were magical.
Emphasize commission goal setting—When your commission is split it’s important to find common ground, areas where everyone can agree. Once those goals are set, it enables city staff to get to work and get things done. If goals are achieved, commissioners succeed. So even if you have a commission that doesn’t get along you are guaranteed to get some things done.
Dust off plans that have been shelved— Adopt and implement the Set Transformation Plan, Congress Avenue Plan and US 1 overlay. We spent taxpayer money and citizen time to create these plans. They are good plans and we need to get moving again. When citizens volunteer only to see their work ignored, cities pay a high price. People stop caring. Consequently, when they see plans implemented they take pride in their work and their towns.
Recommit to key civic projects— It seems like every year, Old School Square and other important civic projects have to fight for their survival. We need to commit to these endeavors which sends a message to volunteers and donors that the city is firmly behind these projects. That doesn’t mean that Old School Square and the Arts Garage etc., are above accountability. They need to perform. But it does mean they can rely on the city as a trusted partner. City Hall needs to be viewed as an ally not a critic. And if criticism is warranted, then it should be constructive.
Celebrate success—In days gone by, when goals were reached we threw a party. Yes sometimes it was goofy but it also builds morale and civic pride. We will all need a party when the pandemic eases.
Restore trust—Sure that’s easier said than done. But it takes time, patience and performance. There was a time when local governments nationwide were the most trusted form of government. People trust leaders when they are accessible, transparent and when they deliver on promises and own up to mistakes.
Show support for city workers—Public and private praise goes a long way. We have many dedicated public servants. It’s important to appreciate their contributions.
—Honor the past, encourage the future. -This City has been blessed with a slew of amazing people. We should reach out to remember and honor them. We should also scan the landscape for new and emerging civic talent and take the time to encourage them. It doesn’t cost money. But the return is invaluable.
Call out the civic bullies—Recently, the city commission did a great thing by calling out someone who stepped out of bounds on social media. It was a bold and needed correction. We need to insist on civility and have the courage to stand up to those who cross the line. It’s ok to passionately argue for issues that we care about. It is not ok to get personal or go after family members or the livelihoods of elected officials.
Identify a Big, Audacious Goal and Get it Done—Civic projects that involve the community can be bonding experiences. In the past we have created goals for culture, the downtown, education and neighborhoods. All of these efforts brought people together. We can sure use another effort we can sink our teeth into. Suggestions? How about the Old School Square Park? The parks bond was passed 15 years ago. It’s time to create a sensational public space and create a process that invites the community to get involved.
These are just a few ideas.
But the number one solution is to stay informed and get involved. Delray needs you.
A wise person once said that Delray was at it’s best when it was working on “Big Things”. There are still big things to be done and people need to be challenged to step forward and “grab hold”. Participation and inclusion were always the “keys to the kingdom” that “made Delray work”. It can happen again!
Well said Chief. If you don’t focus on big things you end up majoring in the minor.
A very special place. It certainly has changed since I first came in 1971. I like the changes. Growth will continue. The world has discovered the beaches. The very vibrante down town. Parks would be wonderful. Community can bring a focus. We need to address affordable housing. For all including the elderly. As a former Chairperson of a Housing Authority , I understand the need of that housing.
Spot on my friend. Affordable housing is and will remain a huge challenge.
Once again you write honestly without attacking others. I would like to say the person that asked you for solutions must not be aware of the time you spent on the commission and also as Mayor. During your tenure as well as Dr. Alperin’s tenure as Mayor, our little town started to shine as bright as our south Florida sun. Residents have to start stepping forward to be part of the solution and not just pointing out others short comings. It used to feel like the residents voices were heard and the city government was transparent, we have lost that. It seems, to me at least, that there have been some questionable management actions taken by our Civic Leaders.
it was a fews citizens that came up with programs like “The Socially Distance Supper Club” that became so successful in helping area restaurants during this pandemic. Now additional chapters have opened copying the business plan. I have not seen any city government back or start programs like this.
Thanks so much for your kindness.
I really believe there is a hunger for engagement and a strong desire to connect as neighbors. The city used to lead these efforts and would have partnered with efforts such as the Socially Distanced supper club. We can do this again.
I’m glad someone is talking about specifics. Real plans. Real action steps And taking advantage of the groundwork already laid. How ironic that such ideas sound revolutionary.
Sometimes the old formulas work.
There’s a whole new generation of citizens waiting to be engaged.
lets get to work on the big things again
That’s what we were once known for.
We have to aspire, that’s what creates value, pride and yes love of community.
Yes, Yes, Yes. I love the idea of the potluck dinners and getting behind big, audacious projects! I was so impressed with the Socially Distanced Supper club (citizen led) but didn’t see much from city that was inspiring. Community members love this town, it’s time to get behind the programs and activities that we believe in. There are young, energetic and innovative people who want to support and work here, but aren’t finding support from Delray right now, I’d love to see that change.
Hi Shana.
I love how you think. There is some much energy we can and should tap into. I’m hoping that starts soon because we desperately need new, inclusive thinking.
Jeff,
Great read.
I totally agree with you. It is time to get our Community back together, working together.
Thank you.
I agree Cory. It’s a simple and proven concept. Let’s hope it happens.
This article is both informative & Inspiring.
Thank you!
I agree with Mary. I love your blog Always so informative. You are a very Special man. A speedy recovery
Aww..thank you Ellie. You are special too.
I am getting so excited to imagine that “those were the days” can easily be replaced with “ these are the days”! I fell in love with so many people I had never known….. and I am still in love! It’s like Peck’s Bad Boy was Delray and put in a “ time out”! Time served! Let’s get back to the energy we created and hang in for another explosion of talent . It was then, and can be now, an amazing and spiritual community experience!! Most true leaders inspire and their gift is allowing many voices to be heard! And then get out of the way! It’s time for many voices to be heard! Thanks , Jeff, my HERO!
❤️ Frances.
You and I have talked about all of this before. It is funny you mention the Elder Ready Task Force project. I just threw out in the garbage the last booklet I prepared for Delray. The project took a year and a half out of my life as well as 20 others who were assigned to the task force. Delray let it sit there, and did nothing about the recommendations put forward except put in a couple of new bus stands. The state of Florida was very disappointed, as was I. I suggested to you years ago that the key people at the time be invited back to old school square to tell their stories on how we became the all American city, and their part in it, but no one wanted to hear it, it was outdated for the times…..welllll, its funny how history repeats itself isn’t it?? Here we are in the “new times” and things are not looking too good.
You are always welcome back to OSS to talk and share about how to try a “do over”! Find your 20 year book! Good ideas stay good!!
I would love that. Especially if you spoke with me.
Bring it. I’ll be there