Council and Staff Set Strategic Priorities

In 2021, the City Council and senior staff met in a series of facilitated work sessions to help City leadership work together on key initiatives. This initial planning wrapped up in July of 2021, but the plan continued to evolve over the next 18 months as initiatives were completed and others were added.

The City Council established four strategic priorities with initiatives for each. As work advanced on these initiatives, the City provided regular progress reports, as noted below. A final executive summary report was delivered to the City Council in February 2023. The Council and administration are considering strategic planning processes for 2023 and beyond. Updates will be provided, as decisions and progress are made.

Priority 1. Focus on People, Processes, Infrastructure and Finance

• Develop a multi-year financial model to improve planning and long-term stability for the City.
• Enhance diversity, equity and inclusion in City processes and operations and continue to improve Hastings as a welcoming community for all.

Priority 2. Community Image and Public Engagement

• Develop a strategic communications plan that reaches multiple and diverse audiences.
• Find new funding streams to stimulate tourism in collaboration with Tourism Bureau/Chamber of Commerce. This initiative includes leveraging partnerships and maximizing return on investment.

 Priority 3. Parks and Public Spaces

• Improve beautification and maintenance of parks and public spaces.
• Assure enhancements to the TH 61 (Vermillion Street) are consistent with the goals and measures of the Council-adopted Vermillion Street.
• Pursue projects for Lake Rebecca and Lake Isabel Parks, contingent upon pending funding proposals.

Priority 4: Housing and Economic Development

• Explore the feasibility of a special taxing district as a mechanism for enhanced services in downtown area.

View the 2021-2023 Strategic Priorities

Statement of Strategic Direction Approved by the City Council 9/7/2021 

2021

Strategic Priorities 3rd Quarter 2021 Progress Report

Strategic Priorities 4th Quarter 2021 Progress Report

2022

Strategic Priorities 1st Quarter 2022 Progress Report

Strategic Priorities 2nd Quarter 2022 Progress Report

Strategic Priorities 3rd Quarter 2022 Progress Report

Strategic Priorities 4th Quarter 2022 Progress Report

2023

Strategic Priorities Executive Summary 2021-2023 Report and Appendix