Three general areas of improvement have been identified in past and current discussions on the topic of growth in Decatur.  They are Economic Development, Education, and Quality of Life. 

Economic Development includes Job Growth, Business Retention and Development, and Economic Vibrancy.  The focus of the Decatur Area Education Coalition represents a direction and approach already underway. Quality of life reaches from recreation and entertainment, to safety and health, to a sustainable infrastructure, and beyond.  The areas of focus and their goals listed below represent the beginning of a plan and a dashboard for our community's progress.

A plan for each will come from the community's future collective work.

Transformation requires unified...
    Game Changing Initiatives
    Broad-based Engagement
    Unified Strategic Objectives
    Meaningful Metrics

Area One: Economic Development Aspirations
    Quality Job Growth
    Business Retention
    Business Development
    Economic Vibrancy

Area Two: Education Aspirations
    Kindergarten Readiness
    Grade Level Performance
    College and Career Readiness

Area Three: Quality of Life Aspirations
    Robust Retail, Recreation and Entertainment
    Comprehensive Health Care and Safety Services
    Strategic Community Development
    Sustainable Infrastructure
    Technology and Green Initiatives