The Kentucky Cabinet for Economic Development announced last month that they have hired a consulting firm to develop a strategic plan for Kentucky's economy. As they work on developing their plan, the consultants have been holding in-person "visioning meetings" across the state, and encouraging citizens to fill out an online survey.
“State economic development agencies in today’s global economy must have a clear understanding of its strengths, weaknesses and advantages on a global level,” said Luther Deaton, chairman, president and CEO of Central Bank & Trust Company and vice chair of the Partnership Board. “It must adopt an adaptable, strategic and modern approach to economic development. The Partnership Board very much looks forward to the creation of such a plan for the Commonwealth.”
The plan, which is expected to be completed by late October 2011, will identify emerging business sectors for Kentucky and make strategic recommendations designed to position the Commonwealth for economic development success based on its key assets for business.
In addition to thorough research to be conducted by BSA, input from a broad cross-section of stakeholders will also be a key component of developing the statewide economic development strategic plan. A series of visioning meetings will be held across the state to facilitate the process of gathering input from stakeholders. Additionally, citizens are encouraged to complete a confidential online survey that will help shape the outcome of the final plan.
“We want this process to truly be inclusive of anyone that wishes to share their thoughts and ideas for making Kentucky the most competitive it can be from an economic development standpoint,” said Cabinet for Economic Development Secretary Larry Hayes. “We invite all those that have an interest in Kentucky’s economic success to make their voices heard by attending one of the visioning meetings and completing the online survey.”
A visioning meeting for Eastern Kentucky is scheduled for Wednesday, August 3 from 9am-noon at the East Kentucky Expo Center (Ballroom A & B) in Pikeville.
