These days, with nations and states paralyzed by ideology, cities are the last resort of pragmatic, participatory, creative, and cooperative problem-solving. In the most successful cities, local governments, civic-minded organizations, and businesses partner to tackle issues. That work not only enhances quality of life but helps cities establish a place in the competitive global economy. How, then, to provide access to these collaborative partnerships and empower individuals (that’s YOU) to take a larger stake their communities? If You Were Mayor was born.
Do you love your city and feel you want to build on its strengths to make it more livable in the short and long run—cleaner, safer, more appealing to the senses, easier to get around, more affordable and sustainable, more open to your participation in its essential life? Would you welcome a robust exchange of ideas that starts not by asking what the local government can be persuaded to do, but instead explores the limits of possibility by sketching an ideal, joyful, accessible, and sustainable city? Are you willing to commit yourself to enhancing the climate for entrepreneurs and other creative individuals to start their own businesses, and to supporting initiatives to materially improve the lives of low-income people? Are you ready to encourage governance that embraces innovation and collaboration?
If the answer to these questions is yes, you’ve come to the right place. Come on in…
