Ada launches strategic planning process

ADA — The Village of Ada is launching a community-wide strategic planning process designed to guide the future of the community. Residents are invited to play a central role in shaping that future. Guided by the theme "Preserving Our Village. Building Our Future," this initiative will bring together residents, businesses, students and community partners to define a shared vision and identify key priorities for Ada's continued growth and success. At its core, the process is about the community coming together to preserve Ada's unique village identity while building new opportunities for the next generation. The plan is not about changing what Ada is, it's about strengthening what makes it special and building on that foundation. Through this process, the village will establish clear development pillars, align around shared community priorities, and create a unified direction to guide thoughtful, intentional growth. "This is an important moment for Ada, and we want to ensure every voice has the opportunity to be heard," said Amanda Sears, village administrator. "This process is about bringing our community together to define a shared vision for the future —one that preserves what makes Ada special while thoughtfully building on that foundation for the next generation." Over the next several months, community members will have multiple opportunities to provide input through in-person listening sessions and a brief online survey. Residents are strongly encouraged to attend one of several upcoming sessions including June 6 from 9-11 a.m. at Buckeye East Coffee, 123 E. Buckeye Ave.; June 23 from 1-3 p.m. and June 30 from 5-7 p.m. at Tavern 101, 101 S. Main St.; and July 24 from 10 a.m. to noon at the Ada Public Library, 320 N. Main St. An additional opportunity to engage will be available during the Chamber Summer Social at 5:30 p.m. June 18 at Old Route 69 Brewery, 120 E. Buckeye Ave., where business leaders and community members can share input and contribute to the planning process. In addition to attending a session, all community members are encouraged to complete a short online survey. The survey takes less than five minutes and will provide valuable input to help guide the plan's development. The survey can be accessed at: https://www.adaoh.gov/ Ada Schools will also be sharing information and the survey link with parents and staff to help ensure broad participation across the community. The process is being led by the village, Ada Village Council and a Strategic Planning Committee that includes Sears, Julie Simmons, Jason Broge, Lindsay Walden Hollar and Bob Simmons. The village has contracted with Thrive Community Partners to support the process by gathering input and compiling data for the plan. Community input will be collected through August, with a draft plan presented to Village Council in the fall. The full process is expected to be completed by the end of the year. This strategic plan focuses on strengthening Ada as a vibrant, connected village while preparing responsibly for the future. Through broad community engagement, prioritized strategic initiatives and practical, implementable solutions, the plan will serve as a clear, actionable roadmap that preserves what makes Ada special, aligns priorities with funding opportunities, strengthens competitiveness for state and federal resources, and positions the community for sustainable, long-term success. Residents are encouraged to follow the Village of Ada's Facebook page for links to the survey, updates on the planning process and additional opportunities to get involved. For more information, contact Michele Chambers, administrative assistant, at 419-634-4045 or mchambers@adaoh.gov