Chair’s Update – January 2024

I hope CDS Members are enjoying the new benefit of free access to National Civic Review, a long-standing publication of the National Civic League. I’ve had the pleasure of working on NCL’s 9th Edition of the Model City Charter and publishing in the Review in the past. I encourage CDS Members to submit article proposals to the Editor—community development is a central function of local government.

As previously noted, the Board of Directors adopted a number of bylaws changes and clarifications in June 2023. However, since one of those changes includes asking Members to ratify such changes, we delayed the notification necessary to execute those changes under the existing bylaws. Instead, we held an information and deliberation session with the membership to garner feedback and input to the new draft (on January 22nd). Many thanks to all who participated! We garnered important feedback that validated changes and input for needed clarifications. Based on these results, we will disseminate and present a final draft for a ratification vote during a special meeting of the general membership. This is an important initiative for increasing accountability to the Members, while encouraging Member interest in service to CDS, expanding leadership opportunities for Board Directors, and enabling enhanced operations within Standing Committees. I encourage all Members to actively and thoughtfully engage as the process moves along!

The NeighborWorks America Professional Learning Advisory Council will convene in April to discuss ongoing progress of this Congressionally chartered organization’s training strategic plan. Our organizations share important professional development aims. I am pleased to have been invited to join the Council and will be sure to seek opportunities for collaboration with CDS, including sponsorship of our annual conferences.

On behalf of the entire organization, I’d like to extend my thanks to all who participated in the Be A Light capital campaign–your support is critical to sustaining CDS’ mission.

Here’s to a vibrant and prosperous 2024!