1. S TRATEGIC P LAN Vision, Values and Objectives

2. G ATHERING D ATA National Citizen Survey (NCS) NCS Survey Results Over Time Ashland by the Numbers Employee Survey Land Use and Revenue Capital Improvement Program (CIP) Update

3. R ETREAT : W HAT D O W E W ANT ? Vibrant downtown Active interstate area More entertainment More restaurants Town-wide broadband Underground utilities Connected trails Financial health Safe community Town pride Housing for everyone Medical center Thriving arts district More young families Regional destination Walk / bike-ability

4. D RIVING & R ESTRAINING F ORCES Broadband access Location Theater Engaged citizenry Interstate traffic National tourism Main Street Assoc. Regional growth Lodging stock Blight Interstate competition Staff retention Recession Apathy Old perceptions Aging infrastructure

5. S TRATEGIC P LANNING What do we want to become? Are we delivering the right services? How well? Vision What is our higher purpose? How are we going to build relationships? Values

6. A V ISION FOR A SHLAND What are we striving to be? The cultural hub of Central Virginia acclaimed for our people, our thriving economic climate, and quality government services. A vibrant community, embracing its unique and diverse history, striving for excellence into the future. The ideal community to grow your business, forge your career, raise your family and enjoy all life has to offer.

7. G UIDING V ALUES Sustainability Efficiency Resilience Innovation Integrity Equity Diversity Stewardship Community Service Professionalism Excellence  Which of these are most useful in guiding the decisions of council and staff?

8. F OCUS A REAS Which of the following graphics best capture the town’s focus for the foreseeable future? (Next 5 slides)

9. Ashland Economic Competitiveness Quality Neighborhoods Safe Community Responsive Government Cultural Vitality

10. Ashland Economic Health Culture & Events Safe Community Efficient Government Community & Neighborhood Livability

11. Ashland Thriving Economy Neighborhood Livability Community Safety Sustainable Government Cultural Vitality

12. Ashland Strong & Diverse Economy Attractive, Livable & Unified Neighborhoods Safe & Secure Community Well-Managed Organization Cultural Vitality

13. Ashland Prosperous Community Livable Community Safe Community Collaborative Community Engaged Community

14. P RIORITIES Culture Downtown as a unique place Availability of arts and culture events and facilities Ashland as a destination Livability Age-specific housing and infrastructure (esp. medical) Safe and affordable housing for all residents Professional residents for professional jobs Sense of place Recreational facilities and infrastructure Safety Crime prevention and deterrence Traffic safety Community relations and service Economy Regional “hotspot” for broadband Robust hotels Carefully developed interchange Professional jobs for professional residents Ashland as a destination for tourists, arts/culture Governance Financial excellence Innovative and efficient Team of high performers Citizen/community-oriented Sustainable policies Infrastructure and funds to support initiatives

15. F ROM HERE … Data Retreat Work Session Vision Focus Areas Measures Objectives Goal Teams Action Statements Performance