It’s an election
year, a cyclical phase that policy advocates approach with a mixture of
resignation and relief. During campaign season, hope that major legislation will
advance tends to be low, giving advocates a moment to catch our collective
breath and prepare for “after Election Day,” when the real work can begin.
But 2008 isn’t a
typical election year. And, at the Metropolitan Planning Council, we know an
opportunity when we see one.
This so-called
“building year” is unique and dynamic. Concerns central to everyday life – the
downturn in the housing market; weakened national economy; urgent need to
conserve energy; and growing awareness that national security depends not just
on airport regulations, but also on well-maintained roads and bridges, and
well-connected communities – have reached a tipping point.
Logic and
urgency demand we not wait until after Election Day to promote specific
solutions. The national climate is calling for change. Record numbers of voters
are turning out in metropolitan regions like Chicago, demanding fresh ideas at all levels of
government. Partnerships between developers and environmentalists, CEOs and
church leaders, national organizations and metropolitan policy groups are
creating the perfect storm.
MPC, with its
reputation as a convener of individuals and ideas, is building on existing
valued partnerships and strengthening alliances with national organizations such
as the Brookings Institution, National Housing Conference, and Smart Growth
America to ensure metropolitan Chicago is not left behind.
MPC has a long
history of tackling the right issues at the right time – which means 2008 will
be a busy year for us. The Metropolitan Planning Council 2008 Policy Agenda
Opportunity Knocks outlines our priorities for policy solutions
that will improve opportunity across metropolitan Chicago. We hope you’ll see some of your
concerns addressed in this document, and that you’ll join us in the coming year
as we make change happen.
MarySue Barrett