Clinton residents invited to help shape downtown’s next chapter

Clinton residents have another chance this week to help shape the future of their city. A second community input session is set for Tuesday, Oct. 13, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Bailey Municipal Center, 211 N. Broad St., and everyone is encouraged to attend.

The sessions are part of an economic development planning effort funded by the South Carolina Department of Commerce. The department’s local economic development program works with smaller communities to help them plan for growth and pick one key project that can build momentum. The city is not paying for the work. Residents’ input on projects and initiatives that support local businesses and boost the economy will go into a strategic plan for community and economic development.

Mark Farris of Sustainable Consulting Solutions LLC is leading the process. He has spent 40 years in local economic development, with roles in Anderson, Rock Hill and Greenville, and now works with the Commerce Department’s program as a consultant.

“My mom and dad taught me that leadership is about service, not about telling people what to do,” Farris said. “This process is about listening to the people who live here and helping them find a project that can make a real difference.”

Farris pointed to the program’s first community, Chesterfield, as an example. There, the city is turning a parcel it owns into a farmers market with an amphitheater behind it, a project meant to draw people downtown and spark interest in the area.

Monday’s session was informal. Participants attending worked through a SWOT analysis, which looks at a community’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Strengths and weaknesses are internal factors. Opportunities and threats are outside forces that could help or hold back the city’s progress.

Residents spoke with pride about Clinton’s close-knit community and the loyalty many feel toward their hometown. They also highlighted the city’s location along Interstates 26 and 385, within easy reach of Greenville, Spartanburg and Columbia, and the role Presbyterian College plays in the life of the town.

The conversation turned to ideas for bringing more energy to downtown. Suggestions included gathering spaces where families can enjoy music, food and time outdoors, along with stronger partnerships with existing events and attractions such as Lush Acres Farm. Participants also mentioned towns that could serve as models, including Hartsville, Greer and Winchester, Virginia.

A common thread ran through the discussion. Projects that serve the people who already live in Clinton tend to attract visitors later.

Farris said the final goal is to pick one project that can create a sense of place and carry momentum forward.

“Most people want to see positive change and growth,” Farris said. “The more voices we hear, the better the plan will be.”

Clinton residents have a real opportunity to help decide what comes next for their city, and organizers hope to see a strong turnout Tuesday night.

The second community input session will be held Tuesday, Oct. 13, from 5 to 6:30 p.m. at the Bailey Municipal Center, 211 N. Broad St. in Clinton. Whether someone has lived in Clinton for decades, recently moved to one of the city’s new neighborhoods, runs a downtown business or simply wants to see more things to do close to home, their perspective matters.

No preparation or expertise is needed. Residents can come as they are, share what they love about Clinton, talk about what they would like to see change and suggest ideas for the project that could help bring new life to downtown. Parents, students, retirees, business owners and Presbyterian College faculty and staff are all encouraged to attend.

Input from these sessions will help shape the project the city takes on. The more residents who take part, the more the final plan will reflect the people who call Clinton home.

Residents are encouraged to invite a neighbor, a friend or a coworker and make plans to attend Tuesday evening. Those who cannot attend can share their ideas by contacting the City of Clinton.