CRITICAL ISSUES 2009

LEADERSHIP CATTARAUGUS CLASS OF 2009

CRITICAL ISSUES

            Since the Opening Retreat in 2004, each class of Leadership Cattaraugus has participated in an exercise to identify those issues that they believe are critical to the growth and stability of the region.  The Class of 2009 participated in this exercise during the second day of the Opening Retreat, on March 24, 2009.  This helps in focusing attention on pressing matters that impact the quality of life in Cattaraugus County.  Additionally, as they serve on Boards of Directors of area agencies, they are aware of these issues and have learned about them.  They will develop contacts throughout the program year, that can help them in mitigating these issues, too.

            While many of the issues are consistent with previous years, the group identified some issues that they have become increasingly aware of.  The issues include:

Ø  Unemployment                                                       

Ø  Health Care                                                             

Ø  Taxes                                                                          

Ø  Technology Infrastructure                                       

Ø  Transportation                                                           

Ø  Relocation of Young People                                

Ø  Aging Infrastructure                                                           

Other issues on the list include:

Ø  Lack of Education for Professional Development          

Ø  Health Insurance                                                    

Ø  Lack of Amenities                                                     

Ø  Lack of Activities for Youth                                                 

Ø  Generational Poverty/Welfare                                

Ø  Affordable Housing                                                  

Ø  Decreasing Population                                            

Ø  Aging Population                                                      

Ø  Slow in Value Change Towards Race/Gender               

Ø  Gangs

Ø  Limited Cultural Activities

Ø  Lack of Knowledge of International Affairs

Ø  Funding

Ø  Drop-Out Rate

Ø  Affordable Child Care

Ø  Lack of Nursing Homes

Ø  Escalating Teen Pregnancy Rates

Ø  Increase in Crime/Drug Abuse