Working to make Summit County a Better Place to Live for Ourselves and Future Generations

Our Future Summit is very proud of the open forums that we hold each month. Most forums address an area of interest to Summit County residents that combine economic, social, environmental and political issues. The forums feature a panel of experts that offer a spectrum of opinions on the topic of the forum. Though the exact format will depend on rules set by the moderator, the panelists usually make a short presentation expressing their views on the subject. After the presentations, the moderator poses a direct question to each panelist to clarify or enhance the panelists' views.

The second hour of the forum is a question and answer session with members of the audience given the opportunity to ask the panelists specific questions. Many of those attending Our Future Summit forums have their own area of expertise that they wish to express. Others attend to become citizens better informed on the challenges facing Summit County.

While most forums serve their purpose by the process of discussion, education, and increased community focus on the topic, several evenings have resulted in direct action. A prime example is the establishment of the Summit Pine Beetle Task Force, which meets twice a month bringing together a diverse cross section of the community to establish solutions to problems caused by the infestation. 

After the inception of Our Future Summit in February 2005 we defined the following as the categories for discussion:

1. Economic Development & Growth

2. Transportation & the Environment

3. Housing, Health & Immigration

4. Education & the Arts

5. Finding Ways to Work Together

We will continue the open forum at our next meeting and beyond as we explore a range of great ideas. We will also break out into smaller groups focusing on specific categories. We look forward to identifying common goals and projects that help maintain our lifestyle in Summit County.

Join us for our NEXT FORUM the second Thursday of each month!