As you may know, AWC is creating a new 3-year strategic plan. At each step in the planning process we have gathered input to ensure that the plan is member informed. Accordingly, we invite you to review the preliminary goals and strategies listed below and provide your feedback. 
 
Here's what to do:
  • Review each goal and its preliminary strategies.
  • Write your feedback in the comment box under each goal. If you do not have any comments, leave the box blank and move on to the next goal. 
  • Please submit your comments by December 31, 2018. 
The feedback we receive will be used to inform the final plan, which is set for review and approval by AWC's Board in February. Thank you for your participation! 

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* Your name, city/town and email address (In case we have any questions regarding your feedback):

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* Goal #1:  LEAD | Boldly and proactively drive policy on behalf of Washington cities and towns.

Preliminary Strategies

a) Enhance our ability to adapt and anticipate issues by reviewing and refining our advocacy processes.
b) Proactively work with legislators to propose legislation on issues impacting cities and towns.  
c) Increase awareness, respect and support for city/town issues by developing an education program for legislators and their key staff.
d) Increase support by acknowledging legislators who support AWC priorities and holding legislators accountable when they take actions that undermine city and town needs.
e) Optimize member involvement in advocacy by strengthening year-round programming and communications.
f)  Evaluate the potential effectiveness of litigation as a component of our advocacy strategy.
g) Enhance the depth and breadth of partnerships and coalitions to advance shared priorities. 

Please note any comments on the goal and/or strategies:

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* Goal #2:  PROMOTE | Raise visibility for cities and towns and the pivotal role of local government.

Preliminary Strategies
 a) Capitalize on AWC’s reach and reputation to shape the public narrative regarding cities and towns through increased media, partnerships with civic groups, and targeted outreach.
b) Expand our capacity to identify compelling city/town stories and best practices.
c) Maintain a strong lineup of member spokespeople who are prepared to share cities’/towns’ perspectives and speak on priority issues. 

Please note any comments on the goal and/or strategies:

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* Goal #3:  EDUCATE | Inspire excellent and effective city/town leadership. 

Preliminary Strategies

a) Increase member awareness of AWC’s robust educational offerings.
b) Continue to evolve and deliver relevant, best-in-class conferences and online educational offerings for members.
c) Expand educational programs for newly elected officials with particular emphasis on strong mayors.  
d) Promote and enhance the value of AWC’s Certificate of Municipal Leadership (CML) program and increase participation. 
e) Develop additional venues and vehicles for cities to share and learn about best practices.

Please note any comments on the goal and/or strategies:

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* Goal #4:  EMPOWER | Champion innovative, high-quality solutions and resources to help cities and towns thrive.

Preliminary Strategies
a) Expand capacity to collect and share data on city and town issues and trends.
b) Continue to provide high-quality solutions through the Member Pooling Programs and Member Services departments.
c) Identify and/or create new resources to address the evolving needs of cities and towns. 

Please note any comments on the goal and/or strategies:

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* Goal #5:  ENGAGE | Model inclusiveness and provide meaningful engagement opportunities to all members.  

Preliminary Strategies
a) Evaluate structure and practices to increase participation and build a strong leadership pipeline.
b) Formalize an AWC “ambassador” program to personally introduce and connect new members to AWC.
c) Review and enhance the member onboarding process.
d) Explore developing a mentor matching program for elected officials. 

Please note any comments on the goal and/or strategies:

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* Goal #6:   DELIVER | Maximize our organizational effectiveness. 

Preliminary Strategies
a) Review programs and initiatives to ensure equitable access by members.
b) Ensure the ongoing financial health of the association. 
c) Position AWC board members to serve as advocates for AWC's programs and offerings.
d) Enhance relationships with other organizations like MRSC in order to reduce duplication of effort and to enhance the value of services to cities and towns.
e) Advance AWC’s systems and technology to support operational needs and deliver an excellent member experience.
f) Maintain a culture of member-centricity, transparency, strategic focus and organizational agility.
g) Foster a collaborative and equitable work environment and continue to invest in attracting and retaining highly qualified staff.  

Please note any comments on the goal and/or strategies:

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* Any other questions, comments or suggestions related to the strategic plan?

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