WMVO Good Times Great Oldies
The City of Mount Vernon and Kenyon College’s Center for the Study of American Democracy will continue their yearlong Washington Forum series next week with a discussion centered on one of Ohio’s most pressing issues: balancing growth with the protection of the state’s critical resources.
The sixth installment of the Washington Forum, titled “Smart Growth: Protecting and Securing Ohio’s Resources,” will take place on Tuesday, June 30, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. at The Gathering Place, located at 425 South Edgewood Road in Mount Vernon. The event is free and open to the public.
The forum is part of the community’s America 250 commemoration and is presented through a partnership between the City of Mount Vernon and Kenyon College’s Center for the Study of American Democracy. The series brings together experts, community leaders and residents to discuss issues affecting government, leadership and the future of local communities.
This month’s discussion will explore how Ohio can continue to accommodate residential and industrial growth while responsibly managing essential resources such as electricity and water.
Featured speakers include Dr. Steven McElwee, vice president and chief security officer of PJM Interconnection, who will discuss how the regional electric grid is preparing to meet increasing demand from population growth, industrial expansion and emerging technologies such as data centers. Daniel Gernant, principal engineer with Arcadis, will speak about Ohio’s water resources, including groundwater recharge, source water protection and water reclamation. Sam Filkins of the Knox Area Development Foundation will discuss local economic development trends and the importance of balancing growth with responsible stewardship of natural resources.
“As communities across Ohio continue to grow, thoughtful planning and resource management become increasingly important,” Mayor Matt Starr said. “This discussion will help residents better understand the opportunities and challenges associated with growth while highlighting the steps being taken to protect the resources that support our quality of life and economic future.”
Organizers encourage residents interested in economic development, infrastructure, sustainability or community planning to attend the free public event. Additional information about the Washington Forum series is available through the City of Mount Vernon.
