Across Ohio, we’re experiencing big economic shifts, and few communities have gone untouched. In Dayton, while unemployment remains low, wages have stagnated and the median household income declined by 7% between 2008 and 2017, as the Dayton Daily News reports. To confront these changes head-on and explore what can make Dayton a more vibrant place to live for all, we hosted a community event with local journalists.
On Sunday, September 23, 2018, at the Dayton Metro Library, about 25 community members met with members of the media to answer these questions:
- What would Dayton look like if it was thriving for everyone in the community?
- What’s one thing you would improve or change in Dayton to make it more vibrant?
- What assets, resources, and strengths exist in Dayton?
- What actions might we take to make Dayton more vibrant?
During the conversation, participants settled on three main action areas to focus on: improving the quality of education, strengthening the local economy, and promoting a sense of community and inclusion. One participant told the Dayton Daily News she would “love to see a greater emphasis on building understanding and trust.”
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To read more about the event and input from community members, download the event report.