Kingston Office of Economic Development & Strategic Partnerships (Kingston, New York)

City of Kingston Office of Economic Development & Strategic Partnerships

Kingston, New York

Website: www.kingston-ny.gov/content/76/86/default.aspx ; www.facebook.com/KingstonEconomicDevelopment/info

Mission Statement

The mission of the Office of Economic Development & Strategy Partnerships is to build capacity for a livable city by working with public and private partners to foster economic opportunity and neighborhood vitality throughout Kingston, NY.

Issue Areas – Action Issues

To create thriving commercial areas, successful neighborhood businesses, and equitable access to quality jobs throughout our city, our strategy must build on the best-practice, community driven approach to successfully position neighborhoods, local businesses and their residents to connect to and compete in the regional economy. This collaborative approach to neighborhood economic development will build partnerships for implementation and ensure that the implementation process reflects community priorities and strengthens communities from within.

Achieving this goal requires connecting people to living-wage jobs, supporting neighborhood business growth, and growing vibrant commercial areas. Investments and initiatives designed specifically to address disparities among communities – including poverty, unemployment, business ownership, and the benefits of public investments –– will be a critical component of this work citywide.

Continued progress on other elements are required as well: business retention and recruitment initiatives will help grow the regional economy and provide job opportunities for neighborhood residents; transportation infrastructure, housing choices, parks and green space investments will powerfully influence neighborhood vitality; and education-focused initiatives designed to strengthen neighborhood schools and prepare Kingston’s workforce will dramatically impact neighborhood and individual prosperity.

Student Name and Class Year: Victor-Pierre Melendez, MS ’10

If you are interested in getting in touch with this student/alum, please contact Caroline Ramaley, [email protected]