Jackson County residents are invited to take part in shaping the future of their community by attending one of several Drive Jackson Vision Plan Pop-up events. These open house–style gatherings are designed to make it easy for everyone to share their ideas and feedback on the next 20-year Strategic Vision Plan for Jackson County.
Drive Jackson is a countywide initiative to develop a bold community-driven plan, initiated by Jackson County Chamber of Commerce, together with partners, including Accelerate Jackson County, Experience Jackson, Jackson Community Foundation, City of Jackson and Jackson County.
Planning NEXT is leading Drive Jackson, a process to develop a new vision and strategic plan for the County. They will work closely with the Chamber of Commerce and Drive Jackson’s Key Leadership Committee to guide the community planning process. As a neutral convener and experienced facilitator, the firm is helping to foster collaboration and align diverse perspectives to drive Jackson County’s future.
Over the summer, the Drive Jackson survey and in-person efforts interacted with over 1,000 residents of various demographics and locations within Jackson County to formulate the plan’s framework. This second round of feedback will give residents further opportunity to contribute before the plan is finalized. Through a series of engaging events, residents can help ensure Drive Jackson reflects the voices, values and aspirations of people from across the county.
Full List of Upcoming Pop-Up Events
Tuesday, Oct. 28 | 5:30–7:30 PM
Martin Luther King Jr. Recreation Center
1107 Adrian St., Jackson
Enjoy a free casual dinner while sharing your ideas for the future of Jackson County.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 | 9:00–10:30 AM
Callaghan’s Coffee Café
109 S Main St., Brooklyn
Stop in for a morning chat about the county’s future and receive a discount on your coffee.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 | 12:00–2:00 PM
Jackson City Hall
161 W Michigan Ave., Jackson
Spend your lunch hour with us—light lunch provided—while adding your voice to the county’s future vision.
Wednesday, Oct. 29 | 4:00–6:00 PM
Lost Railway Museum
142 W Michigan Ave., Grass Lake
Bring the whole family for a free sweet treat, interactive activities, and a chance to explore the museum after hours.
NOTE: All Vision Pop-ups follow the same format, so residents are encouraged to attend the event that best fits their schedule.
No RSVP is required to attend any of these events.
Details are available at drivejacksoncounty.com.
About Drive Jackson
Drive Jackson is a community-led planning process that will result in a new 20-year Strategic Vision Plan for Jackson County.
The plan will:
Articulate a shared community vision for the future.
Identify core values and priorities that reflect the needs of residents.
Analyze emerging trends and opportunities to prepare for growth.
Provide a framework for action—policies, programs and projects that bring the vision to life.
Ensure long-term success with a roadmap that can be revisited and updated over time.
This process is about honoring Jackson County’s rich heritage while ensuring it grows in a way that strengthens its identity, attracts new residents, supports businesses and enhances quality of life for generations to come.
About planning NEXT
Planning NEXT is a multidisciplinary community visioning and planning practice that brings people together for a shared sense of purpose and place. Known for their expertise in community engagement, they skillfully facilitate inclusive planning processes that turn a community's ideas into actionable plans. For over 28 years, the firm has helped clients answer the question, “What’s next?” This means integrating strategic analysis of conditions and trends with community insights and values, both in service of implementation, moving from planning to doing.
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