James Fallows, a freelance writer, became curious about the demise of small towns; so, in 2016, he and his wife flew a small plane 54,000 miles around America to find out the common factors of cities that are succeeding despite the trends. They found 11 common characteristics; here is my summary of their findings:
- Politics
Divisive national politics don’t rule the atmosphere. Yes, people are aware of what is going on, and they are involved, but it does not saturate every relationship. The focus is on local initiatives to address practical problems.
- Local Patriots
Who makes this town go? When interviewed, the same names were on the lips of the citizens. It could have been a business owner, a politician, a radio personality, and/or a newspaper columnist, but everyone knew who they were, and understood the influence they have on the community.
- Effective Public/Private Partnerships
When the motivation for public good found in government efficiently bonds with the incentives for effective efforts found in the private sector, good things happen. In successful cities, citizens could identify and explain one or more effective public/private partnerships.
- Know the Civic Story
“Those who forget the past are doomed to repeat it.” People who live in the more successful towns know their history, which gives the community a sense of connection and commonality that is invaluable and a springboard into the future.
- Downtown
Many forces have driven economic activity away from these civic centers, but successful cities have launched revival projects to reclaim their past, creating a sense of vibrancy not found in communities with dilapidated historical districts.
- Research University Nearby
Another way to think about this is ANY kind of Federal government spending in the area. Also, a research university draws academics and young people.
- They Support a Community College
A community college is a wonderful and effective bridge to a better future for our young people. Great towns support them.
- They Have Above-average Schools
If the citizens feel good about the public/private schools in their community, it shows through. We have to invest in education, and stay involved after our children are grown.
- They are Open
The only growth that is occurring in small town America is through migration and immigration. Whether new people are born in a big city, a foreign country, or across the state line, successful communities welcome everyone. Don’t be offended by a regional accent or a foreign language; rather, use it as a conversational bridge.
- They Have Big Plans
Healthy growth in small towns is seldom an accident. Effective civic planning creates a vision that most people in the community can get excited about and embrace.
- Craft Breweries
This may be the most reliable marker of a successful town. Why? Maybe it indicates that the community incubates creative and gutsy entrepreneurs. It also gives people a place to gather.
The great news for Fort Scott is that we check most of these boxes. I am confident that we can make progress on most, if not all, of these fronts. Let’s create a vision of success together.