The Art of Civic Engagement

In Starksboro, Vermont, planners are using storytelling and community art projects to get at the heart of what matters to residents.

The Orton Family Foundation http://www.orton.org/ , working with the Vermont Land Trust, was behind the process.

"Many familiar issues grew out of the town’s artistic approach to planning for its future, Rosenbluth said. Residents want to preserve the town’s rural heritage and landscape while also expanding opportunities for small, home-based businesses, she said.

McCleery said the bigger advantage of the project was to draw people together from all parts of town."

By Matt Sutkoski

Full Story: http://www.burlingtonfreepress.com/article/20091107/NEWS02/911070311/Arts-drive-Starksboro-planning