A vision for Findlay's future

Over the past few weeks, I've had great conversations with local business leaders about my vision for Findlay's future and how we can achieve it together. Over the past six and a half years as mayor, I've worked to share that vision, but I recognize that it can be challenging to capture something so broad and interconnected. I'd like to take this opportunity to distill our goals and explain why the city is investing in specific areas — and how each of you plays a vital role in our progress. My top four priorities are: flood mitigation, economic growth, housing, and workforce development. These priorities are deeply intertwined and together form the foundation of a strong, vibrant future for Findlay. Flood mitigation remains essential for the safety and long-term stability of our entire region. It protects lives and property, instills public confidence, and is crucial for retaining businesses, attracting new investment, and supporting a highly skilled workforce. Economic growth continues to be a hallmark of our community. This year, Findlay was named the #1 Micropolitan in the U.S. by Site Selection Magazine for the 11th consecutive year — a testament to the strength and commitment of our local businesses. All of our 2024 qualifying projects were investments or expansions by existing companies, reinforcing the idea that we are all one team — working together for the continued prosperity of our community. A continued focus of mine is attracting more white-collar jobs. This work isn't simple — it requires years of relationship-building, strategic planning, and creating the type of community that people want to move to and stay in. Safety, excellent schools, diverse housing options, and vibrant amenities are no longer "nice to haves" — they are must-haves in the competition for talent. As family dynamics evolve — with many people having children later in life and being less tied to their hometowns — Findlay must become a place of choice. That means doubling down on creating an environment where families, professionals, and retirees alike want to build their lives. Housing is a cornerstone of that environment. Over the past decade, we've seen growth primarily in condos, apartments, and townhomes, which are important. But to ensure neighborhood stability and long-term community investment, we also need more single-family, owner-occupied housing. I'm actively working with state legislators, private developers, and economic development leaders to reduce infrastructure costs and support greenfield development — paving the way for more homes that serve our residents today and tomorrow. Community amenities like parks, trails, and green spaces are also critical to our identity. While we may not have the geographic landmarks of other regions, we can create our own unique destinations that enrich daily life and support economic vitality. Some question public investment in these areas, but I firmly believe this is among the wisest investments we can make. Studies show that strong park systems improve property values, enhance quality of life, boost economic mobility, and help attract both talent and employers. I've had direct conversations with companies offering high-paying jobs who asked specifically about our parks — and were impressed by both what we have and our vision for the future, including the downtown recreation area. The takeaway from these conversations have been clear: amenities matter. Each of these efforts helps us retain and attract a highly skilled, engaged workforce. But that's only part of the equation. We must also continue to engage our own young people — showing them that opportunity exists right here, whether after high school, college, or military service. That's why programs like Raise the Bar and WorkAdvance are so important. They expose students to local career pathways and help current residents upskill into better-paying jobs — strengthening both families and our economy. What can you expect in the years ahead? I will continue to champion neighborhood clean-up, support housing development, expand our parks and trails network, invest in safety services, pursue incentives for white-collar job growth, and press forward on flood mitigation. Some of these goals are easier than others — but all are essential for Findlay's continued success. I am incredibly proud to serve as your mayor and excited for the future ahead. I hope you are, too. Christina Muryn is mayor of Findlay.