Western-Star.com

Public transportation, urban and education renewal, crime reduction, jobs, political and tax reform, the completion of Ohio 63 and supporting businesses were among the top regional projects area leaders would tackle if money were no object.

More than 30 area community leaders and stakeholders participated Monday at the Manchester Inn in a citizen engagement forum aimed at helping to develop a shared regional vision and action plan for the Greater Cincinnati area.

The forum was designed to get the Middletown area's view on the region's issues, challenges and assets, as well as to identify through facilitated small groups the top projects for the region to tackle.

Bill Triick, president and CEO of The Chamber of Commerce, told the group Agenda 360 is a plan being developed by the Cincinnati USA Regional Chamber. Among the key components of the plan are developing a competitive economy, educational excellence, livable communities, urban renaissance and effective governance.

Doug McNeill, president and CEO of Middletown Regional Health System and Atrium Medical Center, said his organization sees the migration along the interstates as a catalyst and was excited about the economic potential of the area.

Steve Johns, director of Citizens for Civic Renewal, led the facilitated sessions to get the local input on regional issues with an ultimate goal to develop one voice to unite the region.

Johns said 20 meetings will be held over the next few months to gather input and that there was a desire to include Middletown in the process from the beginning.

"I think it's a good concept," said Mayor David Schiavone. "I'm glad they're talking to everyone in the four-county area."