The Institute's 20th annual Indicators Report tracking the future of NEPA
And to carry the metaphor a bit further, the report offered several touchdowns as it matriculated down the field of data, research and projections.
Dr. Katie Pittelli, President of Johnson College, told the crowd, "We are all working together for a better future for NEPA."
Teri Ooms, chief executive officer of The Institute; Jill Avery-Stoss, president; and Charlie Kasko, board chair, carried the ball most of the morning, offering key information and introducing several presenters on all main indicators.
Ooms and Avery-Stoss said The Institute was founded on the belief that good data drives good decisions. Since 2004, the mission has been to serve organizations and communities by providing "empirical, objective research that drives discussion and informs action."
For nearly two decades, Institute data and research on a wide range of topics have helped policymakers and community leaders from the public, private, and non-profit sectors understand and address some of the region's biggest challenges.
The annual Indicators Forum is an opportunity to share this data and research. Conversations from past Indicators events have been a driving force behind many economic and community revitalization initiatives that produce positive outcomes in Northeast Pennsylvania.
"It is our desire that the information in this year's program will provoke thought and discussion that reveal new priorities and continue to advance our region," Ooms said.
Dr. Pittelli said the first Indicators report was in 2006 and covered approximately 40 Indicators in the region.
In the coming weeks, the Times Leader will feature each of The Institute's Indicators and explain each in detail.
Housing
Romilda Crocamo, Luzerne County Manager, discussed housing in the region, and she spoke about the importance of The Institute and its work.
"I stand before you today with immense pride and gratitude as we gather to applaud the remarkable work of The Institute in developing a comprehensive road-map to address our housing needs," Crocamo said. "This initiative is not just a plan — it is a vision for a brighter future, one that recognizes that housing is a fundamental pillar of economic development and community well-being."
Crocamo said in her role as county manager, she has gained a deep understanding of the multi-faceted barriers and challenges related to housing in the region and the significant impact these issues have on individuals and families.
"These challenges not only affect where people live, but also have far-reaching consequences on their health, employment opportunities, and educational performance," Crocamo said. "As we all know, stable and affordable housing is essential for fostering a thriving economy."
Crocamo said when residents have access to safe and secure homes, they can contribute to their communities, pursue education and job opportunities, and participate fully in the economic landscape.
"By addressing our housing needs, we are not only providing shelter, but also creating a foundation for growth, stability, and prosperity for all residents of Luzerne County," Crocamo said.
Recently, Crocamo said The Institute responded to the county's call for proposals related to the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) grants by putting forth an ambitious plan for a comprehensive county-wide housing needs assessment, which sought funding to address these pressing issues.
"I am pleased to report that their proposal was awarded, and they have since prepared a detailed housing needs assessment," Crocamo said. "This thorough analysis encompasses community profiles, insights into housing development, interviews with housing professionals and community leaders, as well as a rigorous examination of secondary data and an analysis of existing zoning and planning codes."
Furthermore, Crocamo said The Institute has compiled a series of well-considered recommendations, not only addressing the needs of Luzerne County itself, but also providing guidance for local communities, private developers, and nonprofit housing leaders.
"As we review the report and its recommendations, we are taking proactive steps to form a dedicated housing committee and to re-evaluate our zoning and planning codes to better align with our communities' needs," Crocamo said. "Moreover, this commitment to housing is a testament to our collective responsibility to our residents. Every individual deserves a place to call home, a sanctuary where they can build their lives and dreams."
Crocamo said the county's partnership with The Institute underscores the dedication to ensuring that everyone in the community has access to quality housing.
"Together, we can create a future where no one is left behind, where families can thrive, and where our economy can flourish," Crocamo said.
The county manager said Luzerne County is fully committed to working closely with The Institute to turn this road map into reality.
"We understand that collaboration and innovation are key to overcoming the challenges we face in the housing sector," Crocamo said. "By aligning our resources, expertise, and passion, we can make significant strides toward fulfilling the housing needs of our residents."
In light of these developments and with The Institute's pivotal role in facilitating regional planning discussions, Crocamo said she and the county are optimistic that more communities throughout Luzerne County will be inspired to collaborate and engage in "meaningful partnerships as we work towards enhancing housing solutions for all residents."
Reach Bill O'Boyle at 570-991-6118 or on Twitter @TLBillOBoyle.
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