Securing Long Term Quality of Life

"Let us judge what can be done by what has been done," Rousseau

This phrase accurately describes the ongoing work of the Partnership. Because of the professional and personal relationships of Partnership members, issues that would have been impossible to address ten years ago are not only possible but logical to work on now in order to protect and enhance the quality of life in the valley. Because of the efforts of the Partnership, a regional transportation authority initiative passed by 70% in a public vote in both Ada and Canyon Counties.

The metropolitan planning organization that formerly operated for only Ada County is now the planning authority for both counties. The Partnership does not have specific goals for environmental protection, economic development and social equity. However, it is understood by all members that if the five goals of the Partnership are not met in some way, if outreach is not ongoing, and if the cooperative work does not continue, it will have a detrimental effect on all those aspects of the region.

Every member realizes that in order to have a stable, healthy community, air and water quality cannot be allowed to deteriorate. The Treasure Valley has beautiful landscapes and recreational opportunities that draw people from all over the world. Often these people want to stay and create businesses.

The businesses need employees from all backgrounds. The Partnership members work to provide unique, safe and desirable communities within a framework of the larger community of the Treasure Valley.

Another significant element of the Partnership is that every member sits on the boards of various interest groups, including local economic development groups, transportation planning groups, environmental groups, and other organizations of a regional nature. Because of the "cross-pollination from these groups, the Partnership members are better able to understand the specific economic issues of the valley and share this information with other members. Many Partnership members are active in both religious and secular organizations devoted human rights awareness in the valley. Each Partnership member has an area of strength that he or
she shares with other members and the Executive Director.

Because of this, the elected officials have a better overall understanding of the large number of issues in the valley. This does not mean that the Partnership organization will work on all of the issues. But more importantly, it does mean that each member is more aware of these subjects and along with efforts being made to address them.

In May 2000, the Treasure Valley Partnership presented an action list on the long-term goals of the Partnership.

This priority list included:

1. Working on focusing new development along the rail road line that runs from Boise to Nampa.
2. Continuing work on the Treasure Valley Futures grant.
3. Building awareness and implementing a regional open space trail program.
4. Developing an outreach program for citizens, elected officials and others to continue working on the four original goals.