Working hard to build positive image for Houston

The image of a city is important to those who find their home a comfortable place to live, love and play. The thriving and growing community of Houston is there, hidden behind the corridor of woods lined along the Parks Highway that Houston residents call home. Many don’t know much about this community because, in Alaska fashion, homes and properties are off the beaten path and people keep to themselves.

The way the city is perceived by its residents and Alaskans at large weighs heavily in its ability for continued success.

A part of image is also one’s perception — a perception of what residents and fellow Alaskans feel thec of Houston administration and council are doing to progress the city in a growing sector of Alaska. The city needs involvement by its residents in the government process of making decisions on their behalf that affect Houston and surrounding areas. As mayor, I welcome the input of Houston’s residents about what is needed and wanted for the community and ideas of how to make them happen.

To offer residents an opportunity to be part of the process there has been a committee initiated for community-based planning, Comprehensive Community Economic Development. This community-based planning allows residents of Houston to prioritize together with administration an inclusive comprehension plan. A comprehensive plan directly mirrors what a community wants for residential, economic and recreational goals, public facilities and services as well as environmental and transportation goals.

The city of Houston is ranked as a second-class city where residents do not vote for their mayor. The seated council of seven voted in by Houston residents appoints the mayor and deputy mayor from among its ranks. To be chosen by one’s peers to serve as mayor is an opportunity to lead change and progression for Houston, which is my goal.

The council and staff of the city of Houston have been working for some time to correct Houston’s image for its residents and fellow Alaskans. Positive change is coming to Houston step by step due to the concerned work of the current council. We welcome comments and ideas from residents.

Being a proud resident of Houston is a choice. The choice is to live here, work here and speak proudly of my community.

Virgie Thompson has been mayor of Houston since October 2010. Deputy clerk Rebekah Riley contributed to this column.

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