Approximately 250 citizens attended the Ruston 21 Community Update sessions held December 8, 2009.  The Community Update was held to brief the community on the progress made over the past year, and to provide an early look at the plans being developed for presentation in 2010 as a result of the aspirations expressed during Community Visioning  Day in late 2008.  All community participants were asked to leave their comments for the planning team.  The responses showed that 97% of respondents support the 10 plan initiatives that were presented.  The responses also showed that the education initiative, development of the community core, and economic development were considered the three initiatives which will be most beneficial to the City of Ruston.  Much work has already gone into addressing quick-response opportunities,  including downtown revitalization, substandard housing removal, and one-stop shop permitting.

The impressive turnout for the December 8 Community Updates sessions carried forward from the over 400 persons from throughout Ruston who attended the November 11, 2008, Visioning Day to express their vision for Ruston.  Citizens discussed and provided their opinions of what they wanted Ruston to be known for, the attributes they wanted to preserve, and their aspirations for Ruston. This valuable input was translated into Community Guidelines which are the basis for the 10 plan initiatives. 

Ruston residents were encouraged to come to either of the Ruston 21 Community Update meetings to provide further input in regard to the Ruston community’s guiding principles, review preliminary plans for the future, and share their perspective to further guide this process.  Citizens are encouraged to continue to contribute their thoughts and information through the Ruston 21 website.