RethinkErie

REthink Erie Leadership Team Decides to Develop Application

REthink Erie Leadership Team Decides to Develop Application
Comments presented April 3, 2009

 

Below is the text of the decision announcement, presented by Erie County Council member, Joe Giles:

 

“The Leadership Team met yesterday with Rich Gross to discuss the research results.

"We decided that the results were compelling:

• First, the research clearly identifies workforce development and educational needs in our region that are not being met.
  
• Second, in order for our region to grow and meet future challenges, we have to begin to address these needs.
  

“As Rich pointed out, in 1200 areas across the country, these needs are met by a community college.  Therefore the Leadership Team unanimously decided to proceed with the development of an application to the State Board of Education for a potential community college.

“This decision does not signify a funding commitment from any government entity at this point in time.  Rather, through this decision the Leadership Team is asking the REthink Erie work groups to provide the information required by the State for an application.  Once an application is prepared, it will be presented to County Council for consideration of submission.

“Part of this dynamic process will be to discuss the research results with you, and to share information about what a community college is and does.  We want to meet with you and hear from you in the weeks ahead as we shape the application and look for the best solutions to the very real needs of our region.”