The sixth installment of the Washington Forum will be held on Tuesday, June 30, at The Gathering, hosted byt the City of Mount Vernon and Kenyon College's Center for the Study of American Democracy.
The event, part of the America 250 civic engagement series, will take place from 6:00 to 7:30 p.m. at 425 S. Edgewood Road in Mount Vernon. Admission is free and open to the public.
The forum aims to explore how Ohio can balance residential and industrial growth with the responsible management of vital resources such as electricity and water.
“As communities across Ohio continue to grow, thoughtful planning and resource management become increasingly important,” Mayor Matt Starr said, according to the City's press release. “This discussion will help residents better understand the opportunities and challenges associated with growth while highlighting the steps being taken to protect the resources that support our quality of life and economic future.”
This month's theme, "Smart Growth: Protecting and Securing Ohio's Resources," will feature three speakers. It includes Steven McElwee, Ph.D., Vice President and Chief Security Officer of PJM Interconnection; Daniel Gernant, Principal Engineer with Arcadis; and Sam Filkins, President of the Knox Area Development Foundation.
McElwee will explain how the regional power grid operates and how PJM ensures adequate electric capacity to support population growth, industrial expansion, and emerging demands such as data centers.
Gernant will provide insight into Ohio's water resources, including source water protection, groundwater recharge, and water reclamation. He will also highlight how Ohio’s abundant water supply has become a significant advantage for economic development.
Local and regional economic development trends, efforts to attract new industry, and the importance of balancing growth with responsible stewardship of water and energy resources will be discussed by Filkins.
The Washington Forum series is designed to foster civic dialogue and provide opportunities for the public to engage with experts on issues critical to government, leadership, and community development. Presented through a partnership between the City of Mount Vernon and Kenyon College’s Center for the Study of American Democracy, the program continues to highlight topics that shape the future of Ohio communities.
For more information about The Washington Forum and upcoming programs, visit the City of Mount Vernon website or call 740-393-9517.
