Mayor Announces Leadership Learning Institute

Mayor Graham Richard tonight announced a Leadership Learning Institute program. The initiative features a series of meetings designed to help residents learn new skills and strengthen the community. Mayor Richard made the announcement during his Report to the People speech to the Northeast Area Partnership.

"City government is committed to being a learning organization. We want to extend learning resources to the entire community," said Mayor Richard. "Learning and leadership are crucial for Fort Wayne to be competitive in retaining and gaining jobs and businesses. We want to capitalize on broadband technology as a key learning tool for adults and young people to develop new skills."

Leadership Learning Institute meetings (Location: Omni Room; City-County Building). The meetings will be held from 5-6:30 p.m. in advance of the monthly Neighborhood Associations' Presidents Meeting.

* April 3: Bylaws, Covenants and Compliance presented by Attorney Randy Spencer. Learn how organizations can improve the effectiveness of their legal structure.

* May 1: Problem Solving in the Community Part I presented by Fort Wayne Public Safety departments. Learn how to turn complaints such as animal control, noise and traffic issues into compliance.

* June 5: Problem Solving in the Community Part II presented by the Solid Waste, Neighborhood Code Enforcement and Housing and Zoning departments. Learn how to turn complaints about trash, housing, and land issues into compliance.

* July (date to be determined): Festivals, Special Events, Tourism, and the Community presented by CVB, DID and BlueprintPlus officials. Discover the importance of special events as it relates to the local economy. Residents will also learn how they can help with local events.

* August 7: Improving Relationships between Neighborhood Associations and the Rental Community presented by several public and non-profit groups. Learn how residents and landlords can work together to improve the quality of life in the community.

* September 11: Using Broadband and Technology presented by public and private technology organizations. Discover how new innovations can help neighborhoods and the community as a whole.

* October 2: Strategic Planning and Project Development presented by public and private housing development organizations. Learn how various housing programs can help revitalize neighborhoods.

* November 6: Infrastructure Improvements presented by the City's Public Works Division. Learn how to get involved with applying for projects such as sidewalks, curbs and other infrastructure work.

* December 4: Celebrating Community Leaders for Tomorrow. Potential and new community leaders will have the opportunity to meet current elected officials and past leaders to develop relationships that can help new leaders learn how to serve the community.

All meetings are free and open to the public. Individuals interested in participating need to register with the Mayor's office by calling 427-1111 or by email at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..