C the Future - Clayton's Strategic Planning Process

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The final elements of the Strategic Planning process were presented to the Board of Aldermen on November 13, 2012. Members of the Strategic Plan Steering Committee Steve Lichtenfeld, John Lee and Dr. Sharmon Wilkinson introduced the new Vision Statement and four Key Performance Areas (KPA).

These elements are the result of a process that began in March 2012 and dubbed C the Future. The Novak Consulting Group, who facilitated the Strategic Planning process, conducted focus groups and meetings with the Steering Committee.

The Steering Committee invited members of the community to participate. Fifty stakeholders committed to the two-part Future Search Conference process, a Vision Conference and an Action Conference. At the Vision Conference in early June, social, political, economic, environmental and technological trends important to Clayton’s future were studied. This visioning process resulted in a draft vision statement and twelve key performance areas. Via an interactive citizen engagement website called ClaytonConnects, the entire community was able to engage in a dynamic online conversation and share their perspectives, ideas, visions and aspirations for Clayton’s future.

Open houses in August provided additional opportunities for stakeholders to provide input and comments. The feedback obtained from ClaytonConnects and the open houses became part of the dialogue for the participants as they structured long and short term action plans.

“We are grateful for the amazing response from the community,” said Mayor Linda Goldstein. “We hope everyone will view the final Strategic Plan document to see how their input helped shape Clayton’s future.”

The fifty stakeholders reconvened at the Action Conference in September. They reviewed and refined the draft Vision Statement and reduced the number of Key Performance Areas from twelve to four.

In late October, the Steering Committee reviewed the final four KPAs and discussed the process of selecting individuals to serve on Action Committees. The Action Committees are responsible for executing each of the KPAs which is the culmination of the process.

“C the Future provided all Clayton stakeholders the unique opportunity to engage in the creation of their desired future,” said The Novak Consulting Group President Julia Novak. “The result of this inclusive process is truly a community vision for Clayton, and it is something that should be celebrated as the city enters into its next 100 years.”

VISION: Clayton is recognized regionally and nationally as a premier city of its size and character. The community is a safe, vibrant destination defined by its unique combination of leading businesses and educational institutions, the seat of county government and picturesque neighborhoods, all of which combine to provide an exceptional quality of life.

Key Performance Areas:

Exceptional City Services
Clayton residents, visitors and businesses are proud of its City government and the exceptional level of City services provided by dedicated employees. City services are provided in a financially sustainable manner with high service levels delivered with a commitment to efficiency.

Livable Community
Clayton is a sustainable, welcoming community comprised of desirable neighborhoods, attractive green space, diverse artistic, cultural and recreational opportunities and a multi-modal transportation system, all of which foster a safe, healthy and enriched quality of life.

Strategic Relationships
Clayton ensures its long-term viability as a thriving community and premier destination by developing and leveraging strategic relationships. Clayton leads and fosters collaboration among public, private and non-profit entities for the greater good of the community and the region.

Economic Development and Vibrant Downtown
Clayton is a premier economic center, welcoming and fostering entrepreneurs and new companies, attracting diverse talent while maintaining and promoting established businesses and investment. Clayton’s economy and sense of place is anchored by a vibrant downtown that is characterized by a blend of corporate headquarters, local businesses, restaurants, residences, retail uses and regional government.