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Draft of June 26, 2000 Volume I as passed by the Council. The New Face of Iowa [the following is a facsimile of a news article from the future] GROWTH AND
SUCCESS PUTS A NEW FACE ON IOWA State officials
and business leaders say the astounding turnaround was engineered
in the first year of the new century when a citizen's commission
took the values and the ideas of Iowans from across the state
and created a vision for the future. "The
plan tapped into Iowans' dreams and determination," said
the Iowa governor. "It revitalized the state by building
on strong values with innovation in businesses and education.
The plan gave the state a map for building stronger communities
from border to border, and Iowans got down to work and made it
happen." Turn the
calendar to 2010. The headlines are all Iowa's. Once residents
of a stagnating Midwestern state whose glory seemed steeped in
memories of the past, Iowans boldly dreamed of the future. Now
as the rest of the world looks on in awe, Iowans begin another
new year celebrating their future. Families of multiple generations
gather for holidays, neighbors share varied cultural traditions
in festive celebrations, and communities look ahead with excitement
gained from stronger schools, new businesses and clean natural
resources. The best
of Iowa traditions and values, coupled with the growth and new
opportunity made possible by leading edge technology and resources,
has created a new look and a new way of life for Iowa. Iowa in 2010 From across
America, a growing number of families, recent graduates and young
professionals choose Iowa as home. College students and young
adults from other states are drawn to Iowa for the extraordinary
education, comfortable lifestyle, safe and caring communities
and excellent jobs. Native Iowans are staying because their home
state offers professional opportunity, competitive salaries,
and a quality of life that includes culture, entertainment, and
recreation. Together
these groups have boosted the state's working population by 310,000,
strengthening communities from border to border and building
a solid foundation for Iowa in the 21st century. Iowans enjoy
a strong sense of local community while taking advantage of global
business and education opportunities. High speed Internet access
is available in homes, schools, and businesses in every community,
opening doors around the world from anywhere in Iowa. Residents
of Stanhope, Onawa, Keosauqua, and Clear Lake access government
information, educational and medical resources, and worldwide
businesses and markets conveniently from the comfort of home.
Iowa rural communities are revitalized by their electronic links
to resources across the state and around the world. Family incomes
are higher and jobs are plentiful in Iowa 2010. Business and
education partnerships in the life sciences field have created
an explosion of industries that revolutionize Iowa's business
profile. These companies, driven by the connections between pharmaceutical,
nutrition, and agricultural development, have established Iowa
as the life sciences capital of the world. Iowa's traditional
agricultural economy has been diversified by breakthroughs in
biotechnology that redefine agriculture production and the agribusiness
infrastructure. A growing share of Iowa farms are devoted to
niche production, including organic foods and a variety of specialty
products. Iowa is moving to the forefront worldwide in the production
of renewable energy. Its plentiful natural resources provide
ethanol and wind-generated electricity that will fuel the future. The growth
of high tech industries has brought unparalleled business opportunity
to the state. Iowa's strong insurance and financial services
business base is broadened by innovative software development
and telecommunications services that lead the nation. More than
half of American workers are employed in industries that are
either big producers or intensive users of information technology,
and Iowa is a worldwide leader in these fields. Iowa's solid
base of manufacturers has shifted local production emphasis to
advanced manufacturing, with Iowans working as engineering designers,
high-end assemblers, and marketers. Iowa's pace-setting place
in technology resources allows businesses to offer their workers
quality, high-paying jobs in thriving communities with strong
schools and safe, healthy environments. Iowa's leading
position in education is strengthened by growing higher education
institutions that bring jobs and expanding economic development
opportunities to communities like Ft. Dodge, Burlington, Cedar
Falls and Pella, as they continue to dramatically enhance the
earning potential of their graduates. Education
in the year 2010 is a lifelong process in Iowa. The innovative
Iowa Passport system serves Iowans as an electronic "one-stop"
resource for educational information, advising, record keeping,
and placement information. Education programs open learning opportunities
to Iowans prior to kindergarten and long after graduation, moving
beyond traditional classroom walls for teaching, training, and
skill development. Iowans in
the year 2010 are enjoying life. With beautiful natural resources
protected by a strong environmental ethic, Iowa's rivers, lakes,
parks, and trails offer recreation and relaxation. Exciting new
athletic, cultural, historical, and entertainment attractions
provide Iowans with a stimulating and enjoyable way to spend
their leisure time, while attracting visitors from across the
country. Our Shared Values Values serve as a foundation for strategic planning. Values drive decisions. While the values outlined below include current Iowa values, this list looks forward. These are the values the Governor's Strategic Planning Council has used to guide planning for Iowa in 2010. We value
education, nurturing growth and achievement for all Iowans. We value
economic prosperity for all regions of the state and economic
opportunities for all Iowans. Economic prosperity and opportunities are characterized by our work ethic, skills, jobs that pay well, labor-management cooperation, advancing technologies, value-added and inventive agriculture, enabling government, balanced taxation, efficient infrastructure, and high-return investment opportunities. We value
caring communities, the vitality of connecting with each other
in our rural areas, towns, and cities. Caring communities mean social and individual responsibility; welcoming diversity; excellent government and community services; safety; varied recreational, social, and cultural opportunities; and celebrations of cultural heritage and identity. Social and individual responsibility mean civic involvement, pride, honesty, integrity, fairness, respect, giving back, friendship, and watching out for each other. Iowans "neighbor." We value
individual well-being, recognizing each person as valuable and
unique within increasingly diverse communities. Opportunity, wellness, spiritual fulfillment, emotional connectedness, strong family and security characterize individual well-being. We value
our natural environment, sustaining us and enriching our lives. Our commitment to our environment means clean air, water, and soil; stewardship of all our resources; preserving natural diversity; respecting the land; energy conservation; and renewable resources. We value
civic integrity. We expect a high level of civic integrity in the conduct of the public's business. There should be a new commitment to Iowa's long-standing tradition of clean and open government with special insistence on honesty, accountability, respect for the system and the office holders, citizen participation, and tolerance for divergent views. We value
a world-class reputation and identity, Iowa being held in high
esteem. We expect to have an international identity built on education, a culture of community connectedness, opportunities for excellence, technology-enabled jobs, artistic and intellectual creativity, leading the world in agriculture and food production, and in opportunities for families to prosper. Recommendations Using our
shared values as a foundation, the Council weighed proposals
against the following criteria. The most promising proposals
are those that: ·
Align with the shared values, ·
Are critical to improving Iowan's lives (as opposed to only supporting),
·
Address an existing or emerging crisis, ·
Build on current strengths and assets, and · Are unlikely to happen without the added impetus from the Council. The results of that process appear on the following pages. Please see [Volume 2] for the best of the other good ideas and more detail on all the recommendations. Each of the
primary 2010 goals comes in five parts: 1. a goal
statement, describing the benefits for Iowans in 2010; 2. a rationale,
explaining why this goal is critical for Iowa's future; 3. key action
steps, describing what specific actions we need to take (with
key implementing entities indicated); and 4. indicators, to track progress between now and 2010. 2010 Goal 1: Iowa's population increases by 310,000 working people by retaining Iowans of all ages and welcoming diverse new residents, including immigrants, who perceive Iowa as providing economic, political, cultural, and social opportunities. Rationale: New faces
will define the dynamic Iowa of the future. By welcoming new
Iowans to the state, communities will be poised for growth and
success that will lead the state strongly into the future. Population
growth is the heart of real change for Iowa, and attracting more
people to choose Iowa as their home is the challenge of our future.
Across the
country, Americans will be drawn to the new face of Iowa. The
unique combination of traditional Iowa values, innovative technology
and quality jobs, will draw people from coast to coast to the
heartland. Metropolitan residents will trade in long commutes,
smog, noise, and crowds for the convenience, clean air, neighborliness
and opportunity that is Iowa. Some new
Iowans will be familiar faces. Iowans who have left the state
for opportunities elsewhere will come home. They'll see the new
face of Iowa as a place they want to return to, bringing friends
and family back to the place they love, that's now even better.
The combination of technology, jobs and wages, education and
a high quality of life will draw native Iowans home. Just as Iowa
welcomed immigrants and pioneers in its earliest history, the
state must now open its doors to those who seek the opportunities
offered here. The rich cultural and ethnic traditions of many
Iowa communities showcase the diverse populations that make up
Iowa. The Dutch tradition in Pella, the Czech neighborhoods of
Cedar Rapids and the Tai Dam community in central Iowa and the
celebrations of Juneteenth and Cinco de Mayo all illustrate the
important contributions of Iowans from other countries. By taking
bold action, Iowa can become an international leader in immigration,
welcoming people from around the world to its neighborhoods and
communities. Through a growing international population, Iowa
can expand its cultural and ethnic diversity, bring new skills
and knowledge to the workplace and increase its role in the global
marketplace. This infusion of diversified backgrounds in Iowa
schools and communities will also offer a world-wide, world-wise
education for Iowa children. As the new face of Iowa offers tremendous opportunity for people from around the country and around the world, so does a dramatic increase in population offer opportunity to the state. This growth will expand business and industry, re-energize our communities and schools, and strengthen the economy to provide additional services for all Iowans. Key Action Steps: 1. Develop
and implement strategies and policies to retain Iowans and encourage
former Iowans to return, particularly college graduates. For
example, foster innovative models and partnerships with businesses,
the public sector, and industry to encourage students educated
in Iowa to stay in Iowa or return to Iowa. Many other action
steps in this plan directly or indirectly address retention.
This action step calls for the Governor, Legislature, colleges
and universities, schools, business, labor, and others to develop
and implement further specific steps to retain more Iowans. ·
Examples include: school-to-work initiatives that connect teens
with job prospects while they are still in high school, more
internships to connect college students with Iowa companies,
and other financial incentives to live and work in Iowa. Create
a public-private partnership to permit a student who has attended
an Iowa college or university and who works for an Iowa company
following completion of their studies to be eligible for either
(a) a financial incentive for each year of Iowa employment up
to a maximum of 3 years, or (b) annual financial assistance from
his or her employer to reduce student loan indebtedness (Governor/Legislature/Business/Labor/Higher
Education/IWD/IDED/Schools) ·
Use Iowa's college and university databases to recruit alumni
to "Come Home to Iowa" to raise their families. Bring
the existing alumni-based marketing efforts up to scale. (Business/Higher
Education/IWD/IDED) · Develop "Centers of Rural Vitality," with a template center at ISU to help foster the revitalization of rural Iowa. 1. Request
and obtain from Congress a designation of Iowa as an "immigration
enterprise zone" with immigration targets that are not constrained
by federal quotas. Request the assistance of the Immigration
and Naturalization Service in the prompt processing of immigrants
relocating to Iowa. (Governor/Legislature/Congressional Delegation/Federal
Government) ·
In addition to the other responsibilities for Iowa's immigrant
"Welcome Centers," each center will be staffed by a
representative of Iowa Workforce Development to serve all workers,
targeting immigrant, refugee, limited or non-English speakers
and undocumented alien workers, and providing information about
their rights under state and federal labor laws together with
information on how to pursue action against non-compliant employers.
Information will cover wage and hour laws, worker compensation,
Occupational Safety and Health, unemployment compensation, migrant
and seasonal workers protection, EEOC and non-discrimination,
Family and Medical Leave, Americans with Disabilities Act, and
other legislation assuring their rights as employees under state
and federal law, including information and explanation of their
rights to form and join a collective bargaining unit. · Additionally, safeguards against exploitation of non-English speaking employees, especially those recruited from outside Iowa, exist under Iowa law. These include illegal deductions from paychecks, a guarantee of qualified interpreters for non-English speaking workers, and a disclosure of working conditions expected at the worksite when recruiting out-of-state workers and others. However, these are enforced on a complaint basis if at all. By the year 2003, the Iowa Workforce Development office will employ field workers to proactively enforce these vital worker protections. 4. The Iowa
Finance Authority, in cooperation with other housing stakeholders,
will develop a comprehensive housing policy for the state of
Iowa by the end of calendar year 2000. This process will include: ·
Assess current housing stock and needs (establishment of baseline
data); ·
Quantify public resources and evaluate their impact to date; ·
Convene a Housing Task Force and public forums for stakeholder
and citizen input; ·
Make recommendations for a coordinated, targeted, efficient,
and effective use of public resources to improve the affordable
housing environment in Iowa. 4. There shall be an evaluation of Iowa's anti-discrimination laws and a concerted effort to actively enforce them and strengthen them where needed. In particular, by 2002, amend the Iowa Civil Rights Act to prohibit discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation and gender identity. In 2000, designate the Iowa Department of Human Rights to record the results, review the indicators and determine the status of progress towards this goal. (Governor/Legislature) Potential Indicators: 1. The population
of Iowa. 2. Comparison
of non-white to white graduation rates from high schools, vocational
schools, community colleges, colleges, and universities. 3. Changes
in levels of complaints filed with the Iowa Civil Rights Commission
based on race discrimination and determined valid by the Commission.
4. Demographics
of new Iowa residents. 5. Percentage
of Iowa high school seniors who pursue post-secondary education
and who enroll at Iowa community colleges, colleges, and universities.
6. The number
of graduates of Iowa higher education institutions who remain
in the state following graduation or return after 5 to 7 years.
7. Percentage
of Iowans who are homeowners. 8. Percentage of Iowans living in substandard housing 2010 Goal 2: Iowans are electronically connected to each other and to the world. Access to advanced telecommunications services statewide and a continuing ability to take advantage of emerging technologies have moved Iowa to the forefront in education, e-commerce, e-government, teleworking, telemedicine, community development and other new fields, and revitalized rural economies. By 2005, all Iowans will have access to advanced telecommunications services, as defined in Section 706(c) of the Telecommunications Act of 1996, that is appropriate to their needs at affordable, nationally competitive prices. Services should be reliable, secure and easy to use, and should be robust enough to provide expected levels of service, handle peak loads, be scaleable to growing needs and uses, and be flexible in operation. Rationale: Access to high speed electronic communications will allow Iowans to reach out to the world from any corner of the state. By making advanced telecommunications services available to every home, school and business, Iowa will connect its citizens to a worldwide network of services, information and education. No community in Iowa will be more than a mouse click away from the latest medical information, access to government resources or global markets for Iowa goods and services. A cooperative effort of state agencies and private telecommunications companies will ensure that this advanced telecommunications system reaches the last mile of Iowa countryside. Connecting large and small communities to each other and to the world will give workers flexibility to work from home, provide businesses with far greater markets for their goods, and make information faster and easier to get. Iowa's leadership in high speed telecommunications will attract high-wage, high-growth business and industry to the state, building the economy and increasing the number and types of jobs available. Key Action Steps: 1. The Iowa Utilities Board, in consultation with the Iowa Department of Technology, should convene telecommunications service providers, information technology providers, business and consumer representatives, and other interested parties to develop and jointly implement a comprehensive statewide strategic and action plan to give all Iowa businesses and communities access to advanced telecommunications services by 2003, and all Iowans access to advanced telecommunications services by 2005 at the least possible cost. (Utilities Board/Governor/Legislature/Business/ ITS/ICN/IDED/Associations) ·
Encourage the private sector to offer advanced telecommunications
services at nationally competitive rates wherever possible. ·
Amend the Iowa Code to permit the Iowa Communications Network
to lease facilities or excess capacity on ICN facilities at market
rates to private telecommunications providers in order to facilitate
provision of advanced telecommunications services to Iowans by
such private providers. ·
Help communities assess demand for advanced telecommunications
services and to prepare requests for proposals (RFPs) to provide
such services. ·
If no private telecommunications provider is willing and able
to provide the services requested in an RFP, amend the Iowa Code
to permit the Iowa Communications Network to extend its facilities
and provide such services at nationally competitive rates; provided,
however, that the community seeking access to such services must: ·
Contribute to the cost of the investment in new facilities and
equipment required to provide the service; and ·
Provide contractual commitments from customers to purchase a
prescribed level of such services for a defined period of time.
·
If the ICN provides such advanced telecommunications services
where no private provider is willing and able to do so, the ICN
should sell its local access facilities to a willing buyer when
the market justifies private sector provision of such services. ·
providing low-cost and convenient lifelong training and education
(particularly for small businesses and the elderly) in the use
of advanced telecommunications equipment and its practical applications;
and · expanding electronic access to business, educational and governmental services (particularly licensing, registration and permitting processes). (Governor/Legislature/IDED/Business/Associations/Local Governments) 1. Ensure that every public library or other building in every Iowa community has at least one computer that members of the public may use to access advanced telecommunication services. Potential Indicators: 1. Percent
of Iowa communities with access to affordable advanced telecommunications
services. 2. Percent
of Iowa businesses with access to affordable advanced telecommunications
services. 3. Percent
of Iowa homes with access to affordable advanced telecommunications
services. 4. Percent
of State and local government licensing, registration, and permitting
processes that can be accessed electronically. 5. Percent of public libraries that offer public access to advanced telecommunication services. 2010 Goal 3: Iowa is known as the consumer-driven life science capital of the world, aligning producers with consumers, diversifying the agricultural economy, and increasing farm income. Rationale: Agriculture
is the soul of Iowa. The reliance on traditional agriculture
commodities and markets, however, has diminished with changes
in world and local economies. While dramatically changing the
face of traditional farming practices, these changes provide
a unique opportunity for Iowa to reinvent agriculture and its
role in feeding the world. It's the
dawn of new agriculture, with Iowa leading the way. Breakthroughs
in biotechnology are redefining what is produced and how, as
well as revolutionizing the agribusiness infrastructure. Open
markets for commodity crops will diminish in favor of highly
integrated systems driven by consumer demand. Value-added production
of agricultural products will increase farm income and expand
the number of Iowa goods in the national and international market. The shift in agriculture production in Iowa will be to specialized farms where crops include organic, ethnic and gourmet foods, honey, herbs, produce, trees, ornamental flowers and other specialty products. As the nation's leader in the production of ethanol, Iowa is poised to lead the world in renewable energy production. This diversified production will meet changing consumer and business needs while creating new opportunities for current and future generations of Iowa farmers. Key Action Steps: 1. Leverage
Iowa's strong assets in the life sciences to accelerate economic
development related to production agriculture, value-added agriculture,
advanced biotechnology, and other life science disciplines. Building
on a strong tradition of production and value-added agriculture,
Iowa will use consumer-driven research to create new uses for
Iowa commodities and processes. This effort will benefit from
world class leadership in plant science at the ISU Plant Science
Institute, in veterinary science at ISU, and in industrial biotechnology
and human health and medicine at the University of Iowa. Uniquely,
Iowa can comprehensively leverage life science assets in all
three areas (plant, animal, and human life science). Recognizing
the enormous potential U.S. market in agricultural biotechnology
(estimated to reach $1 billion by 2003) and human therapeutic
biotechnology (estimated to reach $23 billion by 2003), high-technology
business incubator facilities will be developed as well as facilities
for pilot production of biological products of potential commercial
interest. A comprehensive communication strategy among academic
and private sector laboratories and state economic development
officials will ensure the best possible return on the public
investment in life science research. (Governor/Legislature/IDED/Higher
Education/ Business/Associations) (Governor/Legislature/IDALS/IDED/Business/Communities/ISU
Extension/ Associations) Potential Indicators 1. Employment
increasing by 20% in the life science industry cluster. 2. Increase
the number of small specialty farms. 3. Farm operator
income. 4. Increase
number of life science business start-ups by ___% 5. Iowa's
share of the value-added meat processing. (Grow from the 8% current
U.S. share to 25%.) 6. Gross
revenue by organic and natural product categories. 7. Iowa should
achieve the status of a net importer of raw commodities. 8. Iowa producers' share of ownership in value added processes and enterprises. 2010 Goal 4: Iowa is a recreational destination, featuring the country's best network of trails, major new attractions, our natural prairies, rivers and woodlands, sports, arts, entertainment, our history and cultural heritage, and a healthy lifestyle focusing on exercise and sports participation as a central part of community life. Rationale: Iowa can become a place where healthy lifestyles mix with opportunities for recreation and fun. By offering a variety of recreation, entertainment and culture, while protecting its natural resources, Iowa will attract and keep residents who are looking for a quality living environment. Utilizing the best of the Iowa landscape is a great place to start. Prairies, rivers and woodlands offer beautiful settings for recreation. Major new attractions featuring sports, entertainment and art can provide a multitude of options for Iowans of all ages and interests. Showcasing the unique historical and cultural aspects of Iowa through celebrations and displays will tell the Iowa story to all who visit. Beyond the enjoyment of recreation, this effort to build on Iowa's place as a destination provides important economic benefit. Communities will be revitalized through tourism income as more visitors explore the attractions in the state. Jobs will be created and increased local tax income will support schools and community services. In addition, recreation and entertainment bring people together to help build a sense of community. Increased recreation opportunities also give Iowans a way to develop healthy lifestyles and personal wellness. Iowans' health can also be enhanced through a state-wide commitment to clean water, air and soil. The quality of Iowa's natural resources is directly linked to the quality of life for all Iowans. Key Action Steps: 1. Develop
and promote new and existing recreational opportunities: ·
Expand and connect Iowa's trail system, including the rail-to-trail
network. ·
Develop destination lodges in or near flagship state parks. ·
Create regional recreation and sport activity centers throughout
Iowa. ·
Create non-traditional recreational facilities. ·
Promote Iowa as a destination for golf. ·
Promote Iowa as a destination for hunting, angling, bird watching,
canoeing, camping, etc. ·
Develop, sustain, promote, and publicize scenic prairies and
wildlife. ·
Create facilities and recreational opportunities that appeal
specifically to youth. ·
Fully fund REAP (Resource Enhancement and Protection fund). ·
Encourage consideration of a national park in the Loess Hills.
1. Celebrate
and promote Iowa and Iowa communities. ·
Designate a day to celebrate Iowa. Establish an All-Iowa Celebration
Holiday, built on our history, living heritage, and the power
and diversity of our arts and humanities. ·
Establish the Henry A. Wallace Prize to be given annually in
the areas of soil conservation, scientific plant research, and
rural prosperity. ·
Establish an Iowa Heritage Communities program to identify and
support sustainable communities in Iowa. 1. Develop
and promote unique new events and attractions that would draw
national and international attention (i.e. we already have RAGBRAI,
Donna Reed Festival, World Food Prize, and the Iowa Writers Workshop.)
We should consider new competitions, attractions, and events
involving new plays, outstanding-never-performed operas, museums,
historical attractions, and other arts, music, recreation, and
sports opportunities. (Department of Cultural Affairs/ Communities/Business/Associations/Higher
Educational Institutions) Potential Indicators: 1. Tourism
industry growth 2. Increased
attendance at events and attractions (parks, museums, sporting
events, music, theater, festivals, etc.) 3. [New data] Increased number and variety of attractions and events 2010 Goal 5: Iowa wages and incomes equal or exceed the average for the Upper Midwest, enabling Iowans to enjoy a standard of living that sustains workers and their families in dignity, comfort, and economic security. Rationale: The Iowa
work ethic has helped companies like Maytag, John Deere, Motorola,
Hon Industries, and Rockwell-Collins succeed. In the traditional
manufacturing environment, Iowans' commitment to quality work
helped Iowa industries develop world-class reputations. Now dramatic
changes in technology and production are changing the way companies
do business. Information systems and the explosion of technology
skills are redefining work and Iowans are ready to be on the
cutting edge of the new labor pool. Developing new skills is
critical to the workforce of the 21st century. A state-wide
effort to attract high-tech, high-wage, growing industry groups,
called clusters, will expand the Iowa economy and provide quality
jobs and wages for Iowa workers. Building on current strengths,
Iowa can focus on three high-tech growth sectors: ·
Information Solutions, including software development, insurance
and financial services, and telecommunications services. ·
Advanced Manufacturing, focusing on the development of manufacturing
systems and procedures utilizing the latest technology and highly
skilled workforce. ·
Life Sciences, applying a range of technological disciplines
to develop food, pharmaceutical, microbial and chemical products
and processes, and medical devices to improve human and animal
health, nutrition, the environment and quality of life. · Higher education, where through employment and enrollment, millions of dollars are pumped into Iowa communities. Innovative partnerships between businesses and Iowa colleges and universities will expand research and development while building strong links between research and application. Key Action Steps: 1. Focusing
resources on high-tech, high-wage, growing industry clusters,
Iowa will develop a powerful and successful framework for regional
economic development. Building on strengths, the State will focus
on three growth sectors: Information Solutions (including insurance,
telecommunications, and software development), Advanced Manufacturing,
and Life Sciences. This strategy emphasizes continued development
of leading research specialties at Iowa State University and
the University of Iowa, and seeks improved linkages between research
and applications among all development partners. Develop plans
to recruit and retain skilled workers, especially Information
Technology professionals needed to advance high-tech development
in Iowa. Allow the Department of Economic Development more flexibility
in the way it can use funds to advance the strategies included
in the 2010 recommendations. Also as part of this strategy, enact
policy changes that raise wage levels for lower income Iowans:
·
Require that wages of employees whose employers receive economic
assistance from the public be at least 105% of the county average;
·
Create a state minimum wage that is 10% higher than the federal
minimum wage; and ·
Establish a "living wage" (a wage above poverty level)
requirement for state government and its contractors. 1. Accelerate
entrepreneurial development of target industry and all company
start-ups, particularly for technology and life sciences companies.
Actions will include: ·
Develop and formalize "angel" and venture capital investor
networks. ·
Expand entrepreneurial training programs. ·
Encourage the development of infrastructure to nurture start-ups;
business plan and market feasibility analysis, financial and
risk management tools, market research and college and university
technology transfer. ·
Create innovative mechanisms to fund, or prioritize state investments
in, instructional programs that meet critical skill force needs
or help achieve Iowa's 2010 strategic goals. 1. Improve
all Iowan's access to education, training and skill development
to ensure they have opportunities for career advancement and
lifelong learning and that critical skill force needs are met.
Establish an electronic system connecting Iowans to life-long
learning opportunities. · The Iowa Passport system should serve as a "one-stop" electronic location for educational resource information, educational advising, record keeping, resources for placement, employer assistance, and any other aspect of life-long learning useful to Iowans. (Governor/Legislature/Institutions of Higher Education/DE/IWD) 1. Target
higher education as a growth industry for the state. Higher education
stakeholders, in conjunction with the Department of Economic
Development, should develop a statewide effort to promote Iowa
higher education institutions nationwide and internationally.
(Governor/Institutions of Higher Education/IDED) ·
Provide financial incentives for companies to sponsor higher
educational opportunities for their employees at Iowa institutions · Encourage out-of-state students to attend Iowa colleges by offsetting all, or some portion of, any state tuition grant from their home state that they forfeit by attending an Iowa college, provided that the student commits to work in Iowa for three years following graduation. (Governor/Legislature/Institutions of Higher Education/College Aid Commission) 1. Develop
and fund a multi-year domestic and global marking/messaging program
in partnership with media, government and the private sector
to competitively position Iowa. This campaign should target the
three industry clusters and education. It should portray an innovative,
progressive globally connected, technically savvy, community-oriented,
family friendly, safe, and satisfying Iowa. a) Radical
simplification and transparency by eliminating all deductions
and credits, including federal deductibility. Everyone pays their
fair share, but no more. Except in the case of demonstrated market
failure, if one economic activity is to be favored over another,
those granting the favored status should do so by a direct subsidy,
not by hiding the subsidy in the tax code. b) Balancing
the tax burden among the major forms of taxation: income, property,
and sales/use taxes. c) A progressive
income tax rate structure, including a no-tax threshold related
to the federal poverty level. d) Where
appropriate, pay for services with user and PILOT (payment in
lieu of taxes) fees that are directly related to the service
provided rather than using General Fund revenues. Exceptions
would include social purpose services such as public libraries..
e) Set new,
lower rates at a revenue neutral level. Rates are now higher
than needed because of all the credits and deductions. f) Encourage the federal government to establish equal sales tax treatment for e-commerce sales. Appoint a bipartisan commission to start with the Council's tax recommendations and craft a specific legislative proposal. Achieving these reforms would distinguish Iowa and declare to all that Iowa has a level playing field and a tax system that does not simply favor those who hire the best lobbyists. Iowa's tax system would be unique in its neutrality, equity, simplicity, transparency, and predictability. The Governor and Legislature should also work with neighboring states to reduce the pernicious effects of competing economic development tax and subsidy incentives. Iowa cannot "unilaterally disarm," but Iowa can provide leadership to achieve regional solutions. (Governor/Legislature/Labor/Associations/Higher Education) 1. The Governor should convene a Higher Education forum with all sectors of the higher education community (including faculty and student representatives), the Governor, representatives of the Legislature, and representatives from business, industry and labor, to explore how Iowa's investment in higher education can be most effectively utilized and leveraged. This forum should also address the ways the Higher Education community can best contribute to the achievement of the 2010 goals. (Governor/Legislature/Institutions of Higher Education/Business/ Labor) Potential Indicators: 1. Average
wages/income equal to Upper Midwest or national average. 2. The number
of Iowans employed in targeted industries will increase: life
sciences by ___%; information solutions by 50%; advanced manufacturing
by ___%. 3. Numbers
of new businesses still operating after one year. 4. The percentage
of working age adults with post-secondary certificates, diplomas
or degrees residing in Iowa will increase ____%. (U.S. Bureau
of the Census) 5. Comparison
of salaries and wages for white and non-white Iowans as reported
to state and federal agencies 6. Annual
comparisons (based on wage reports to state and federal agencies)
of wages paid to immigrants, refugees, limited English speakers
and undocumented aliens to those paid to other Iowans for comparable
work in industries with significant numbers of immigrant workers.
7. Total number of students enrolled in higher education. 2010 Goal 6: All Iowa children benefit from high quality early education and childcare that is affordable and accessible. Iowa's educational system helps Iowans young and not so young reach their maximum potential. Rationale: Iowa's leadership
in education can take another step forward. Strong schools continue
to be of the highest quality, but learning and skill development
will move beyond the classroom walls. Iowa's initiative in developing
lifelong learning opportunities will bring Iowans' knowledge
and skills to the forefront. Early education
and child care initiatives will provide stimulating learning
environments for the youngest Iowans, while education and training
programs for adults through their senior years will give all
Iowans ongoing opportunities to learn and grow. The innovative
Iowa Passport system will offer Iowans an electronic database
of educational resources and record-keeping for fast, accurate
access to their educational information. Educators will benefit from increased salaries and expanded opportunities for professional development, while students will benefit by having the highest qualified teachers utilizing the most current research-based information and strategies. Collaborative efforts will strengthen educational programs and enhance learning across all levels. Key Action Steps: 1. Require that all child care/preschool settings be licensed and registered and adhere to standards that ensure quality care and experiences. (Governor/Legislature/DHS) 2. Establish
a professional development system for child care/preschool providers
of prerequisite and on-going training that is accessible, available,
and articulated. Establish a process for credentialing providers
based on education, experience, and competencies: ·
Develop state standards for all skill levels for all child care
and early childhood providers, and ·
Implement a provider training program linked with compensation.
·
Create a forgivable loan program for providers following the
completion of post-secondary study. 3. Implement a childcare and/or preschool subsidy for every Iowa family below 85% of the state median income for each child, birth to age 6, to promote their healthy growth and development. (Governor/Legislature) 4. Reimburse
childcare providers' actual/full cost of quality care. (Parents/Guardians/Governor/Legislature/DHS/Federal
Government?) ·
Schools provide at least 20 days of research based professional
development for educators (that is an increase from the current
10 or less currently provided in most schools); ·
State provided incentives be distributed to school districts
that demonstrate improved student achievement as students progress
through grades; and ·
Educators be paid a competitive and fair wage so that educators
of the highest quality be attracted and retained in the profession. ·
Schools demonstrate active community and family involvement,
including the initiation of community and research based character
development such as "Character Counts" for all Iowa
children. 4. Shared
support services that will allow for "self-forming co-operatives"
of districts and other agencies should be implemented to increase
efficiencies in the areas of Human Resources, development and
delivery of curriculum, transportation, and others based upon
local School Board decisions. ·
Collaborative, voluntary partnerships should be developed to
create regional learning opportunities to facilitate offering
a rigorous and challenging secondary curriculum to meet the needs
of diverse learners, including programs in specialized areas,
shared programming with post-secondary institutions, advanced
placement courses, etc. ·
Implement financial incentives for K-12 districts to promote
innovative sharing arrangements for staff/administrative functions
and programs while still supporting local decision making for
increased student learning. ·
Implement interagency collaboration across school districts,
community colleges, AEAs, empowerment zones, counties, regional
services agencies, economic development, workforce development,
etc. Potential
Indicators: 2. Percentage
of preschool capacity in Iowa that is accredited. 3. Percentage
of household income devoted to childcare. 4. Median
hourly wages of childcare and preschool providers. 5. Staff
turnover rates for all forms of regulated childcare and preschools.
6. Percentage
of students at various grade levels achieving proficient status
in reading, mathematics and science. 7. Percentage
of high school seniors who intend to pursue post-secondary education/training
and achieving a score or status on a measure that indicates probable
post-secondary success. 8. Differences
in the learning and success of sub-groups of students as compared
to the rest of Iowa students (sub-groups such as students with
special needs, students with limited English ability, economically
disadvantaged students, racial and ethnic minority students,
gender, etc.). 9. Average salary of full-time public school teachers and administrators. 2010 Goal 7: Iowans recognize and demonstrate that clean water and air, and healthy soils are integral components of our state's infrastructure and key resources for our prosperity. Rationale: The water quality of Iowa's lakes and streams has declined during the past century. In 1999, the EPA identified 159 impaired lakes and streams within Iowa's borders. It is estimated that 90% of these impaired waterways have either soil runoff or nutrient pollution. Iowans have an intrinsic appreciation for our natural resources and have voiced a commitment to conservation techniques that will protect and preserve our natural heritage. Still, much remains to be done. We must make an even greater commitment and effort to restore our water resources to their natural balance while preventing any future degradation. Clean, safe water should be recognized as a vital part of Iowa's infrastructure - it is important to our health, economy, and the living environment. Iowans expect drinking water to be of the highest quality. Lakes and rivers are the number one vacation choice for Americans. If Iowa is going to preserve biodiversity and retain and attract recreation and tourism, then clean water is essential. Business, industry, and agriculture require clean water for producing quality products. The quality of Iowa's water is directly linked to the quality of life for all Iowans. Clean water helps ensure healthy, vibrant communities in our future. Since the first settlers tilled the land, Iowa has been known as a state with rich soil. Healthy soil continues to be an important asset for our state's prosperity. Through the years much of our precious topsoil has eroded and washed into our rivers and streams or has been blown away. Soil erosion continues to be recognized as a national problem and directly effects the quality of the water we drink and the air we breathe. In 1987, Iowa cropland was losing 4.7 tons of soil per acre per year from sheet and rill water erosion and 1.75 tons of soil per acre per year from wind erosion. New Farm Bill legislation included payments to farmers who implemented conservation practices on highly erodable farm acres. In 1997, the amount of erosion decreased to 1.3 tons of soil per acre per year from sheet and rill water erosion and 1.2 tons of soil per year from wind erosion. In recent years progress has leveled off. More commitment is needed to make additional progress. With continued cost-share programs, technical assistance and education efforts, we should expect further decreases in erosion levels by 2010. Iowa has all but ignored the negative impact of air pollution on its inhabitants. Iowans consistently rank air pollution as a low priority among all of Iowa's environmental problems. A recent U.S. Environmental Protection Agency computer model projected that across Iowa, seven chemicals that come mostly from vehicle tailpipes could be found in the air at levels high enough to cause extra cancer cases. Based on state averages, the chemicals would be expected to cause an extra 100 cancer cases, based on breathing them for a lifetime. Add to that 16 other chemicals found in scattered Iowa locations at high enough levels to increase cancer risks. Iowans also face nontoxic pollution, such as dust, that contributes to asthma and other illnesses. Iowa ranks 24th nationally in the amount of toxic air pollutant released from industrial sources. Iowa's vehicle fleet efficiency as measured in miles per gallon is extremely low at approximately 14.5 mpg. Iowa currently has no state program regulating toxic air emissions. We also rank last nationally in per capita spending on air pollution control. Iowa is also ideally positioned to lead the world in renewable energy production. As the tenth windiest state in the nation and the leader in the production of ethanol, the next decade holds enormous opportunity for our state. Iowa has the potential to produce almost five times the amount of electricity from wind power as it consumes, and has the energy capacity to produce 5.2 percent of total U.S. consumption annually. Iowa is currently the third largest producer of electricity from wind, behind California and Minnesota. According
to the DNR, ethanol is Iowa's most highly consumed renewable
energy resource, accounting for: ·
30-percent reduction in carbon monoxide emissions, and a 27-percent
reduction in carbon dioxide emissions, ·
More than $1.7 billion dollars in economic activity, ·
Approximately $730 million added to value of the state's corn
crop, ·
13,250 jobs affected by the ethanol industry, including 2,550
directly related jobs, and · $111 million in tax revenue collected from the production and sale of ethanol. Ethanol can be used anywhere MTBE (methyl tertiary butyl ether) is used. With the recent media reports of the negative impacts on air and water associated MTBE, ethanol is in a prime position to capture the market for fuel additives. Key Action Steps: 1. In 2001,
convene four regional public hearings to receive testimony on
the effectiveness of Iowa's Environmental Regulations for Animal
Confinement Facilities. Testimony received from the public hearings
would be utilized to educate all interested individuals and organizations
of the environmental and animal agriculture industry impacts
that this legislation has had in Iowa. The testimony would help
assess Iowa's legislation related to livestock feeding, by examining
current environmental and animal agriculture industry data from
IDNR, IDALS, and other organizations and would consider local
control over siting. The hearings would be organized by the Leopold
Center and the Iowa Environmental Council. (Leopold Center/Iowa
Environmental Council/DNR/IDALS/ISU) 6. Create
a strategic plan to market liquid renewable transportation fuels
(including ethanol) and wind energy both within the state, and
nationally. This plan should include an Iowa fuel quality standard,
the development of key infrastructure and distribution networks,
and incentives for energy efficient technologies. The plan should
also: ·
Encourage the private sector to invest more in wind turbines,
ethanol, and soy processing facilities; ·
Feature a promotional campaign highlighting the environmental
and economic benefits of using renewable fuels for business and
home; ·
Through the Regents universities and private colleges, increase
research in renewable fuel production and the development of
fuel-efficient technologies; and ·
Work with regional utility companies in opening up markets for
"green energy" produced in Iowa. Potential Indicators: 1. Number
of Iowa lakes and streams on the federal list of impaired waters. 2. Number
of miles of buffer strips planted each year. 3. Number
of acres of wetlands restored per year. 4. Tons per
acre per year of soil lost from erosion. 5. Number
of locales where residents are regularly exposed to high concentrations
of toxic air pollutants. 6. Number
of days that a location in Iowa exceeds ambient standards for
ozone. 7. Percentage of Iowa energy needs supplied by renewable energy sources. 2010 Goal 8: State and local government in Iowa have achieved national recognition for effectiveness and efficiency through voluntary regional realignment, streamlining, reallocating resources, and making services available when and where citizens demand them. Rationale: To achieve the ambitious goals above, Iowa needs smart government. Working smarter to better utilize limited resources will provide more efficient government services, which frees up resources for other uses. Encouraging regional delivery for better coverage and services for fire, police, roads, waste management, health care, and recreational services is smart government. We should also increase the distribution of economic activity, the availability of housing, and recreational attractions. Multiple counties/cities working together can attract capital, projects, and people more easily than single units. We can lower operating costs by eliminating multiple layers of similar administration in metro and urban areas. Regional services for heavily populated counties would result in substantial reduction in human resource expense, operating costs, and borrowing costs. In rural areas, regional services would lead to a better distribution of services and a broader tax base to build infrastructure. At the state level, smarter government means the convenience of electronic and telephone information delivered 24x7. Higher quality information and services can be made available because of standardized training and service delivery. Substantial cost savings can be achieved by locating centers in less costly areas of the state through a reduction in square footage cost and maintenance and a reduction in the number of associates needed because of new technologies. Repetitive information, licensing, and inquiries can be available in electronic, web, or paper formats. Iowa would be a front runner in the delivery of government and education services by using web-based distance learning and service packages. Regional representation means stronger representation legislative matters, because of focused and common interests by more people. Smarter government also gives skilled workers and businesses another good reason to choose Iowa. Efficient, effective, and wired government can help retain and attract new Iowans to a state where citizens can conduct their business and business with the state from anywhere at any time. Key Action Steps: FEDERAL GOVERNMENT 1. Increase the professional staff of Iowa's Washington, D.C. office and direct that the office and Iowa's Congressional delegation meet monthly to review federal-state issues impacting the state. Further, the Governor and Iowa's Congressional delegation should meet semi-annually for a similar review. Iowa currently receives $15 billion annually in federal funding and should work smartly to fully leverage federal dollars whenever appropriate. STATE GOVERNMENT 1. Pursue
a thorough performance review of all state spending. This review
should give consideration to the need for the services being
provided, quality of services being provided, cost efficiency,
and to invest in 2010 priorities. The Governor will determine
the best way to pursue this objective. LOCAL GOVERNMENT 1. Build on successful experiences to date and move toward more regional delivery of local government services through incentives for regional alliances, not mandates. The State of Iowa should provide technical assistance and financial incentives to spur more regional delivery systems. Local initiative should determine the extent of regional alliances. Specific elements of this strategy, among others that may emerge: ·
The State of Iowa should study and share best practices for regional
delivery systems that can meet unmet needs and reduce costs to
local taxpayers. 1. Where
necessary, Chapter 28E of the Iowa Code should be modified to
permit counties to choose to merge and/or eliminate elected offices
for administrative functions and to permit regional alliances
to establish new forms of government. The Iowa Association of
Counties and the Iowa League of Cities (and potentially other
stakeholders) should convene a process to explore realignment
of county boundaries and county/city boundaries, on a case-by-case
basis. This process should yield both the potential advantages
and disadvantages of options for a re-alignment of counties and
re-alignment to achieve metropolitan area government (consolidation
of cities and surrounding suburbs) along the lines of the Indianapolis
model. Potential Indicators: [Need to draft and insert here.]
These recommendations are not the only actions that can be taken to improve Iowa. The Council chose the recommendations above because in their judgment these are the most critical to changing Iowa's current trajectory. Other Iowans have charted good strategic plans in specific areas and the Governor's Strategic Planning Council endorses those plans' implementation as part of Iowa's future. Prominent among these plans: ·
Iowa in Motion, the Iowa Department of Transportation's long
range plan for transportation systems, specifically: 1. Improve
commercial air service. 2. Develop
Iowa's backbone system of recreational trails. 3. Maintain,
preserve, and rebuild state highway systems. 4. Give operating
support to Iowa's public transit systems. 5. Rehabilitate rail branchlines. A full version of Iowa in Motion can be obtained from the DOT or accessed at http://www.state.ia.us/government/dot ·
Healthy Iowans 2010 - A full version of Healthy Iowans 2010 can
be obtained from the Iowa Department of Public Health or accessed
at http://www.idph.state.ia.us/sa/h_ia2010/contents.htm More of the Council's work in these areas, and others, can be found in [Volume II].
The Iowa 2010 recommendations should be circulated as widely as possible in Iowa in the early fall. Inclusion of a brief, readable tabloid in local newspapers would be ideal. The Strategic Planning Council should request Iowa Public Television to produce and air an hour-long documentary special on the Iowa 2010 recommendations at the beginning of the fall season. This program would help stir public discussion of the 2010 recommendations. The Govenor's office should spearhead a strategic marketing campaign which could include hosting regional meetings around the state immediately following the November elections to discuss the Iowa 2010 recommendations with legislators, legislators-elect, local government officials, and citizens as a way of building public and bipartisan political support for them, as well as a series of trips to other areas of the world to "recruit" people and companies to move to Iowa. The Governor, Lt. Governor, and Executive branch Enterprise Planning Teams should consider 2010 recommendations as they draft enterprise and agency strategic plans and budget recommendations. Similarly, the Legislature should consider 2010 recommendations as they plan for legislative sessions. The Iowa Department of Management should be given the assignment of establishing 2010 indicators of progress, tracking and communicating that data on an annual basis, and coordinating 2010 recommendations with state government's strategic planning processes. The members of the Governor's Strategic Planning Council do not have the power to make these recommendations reality. In fact, no single person or group - not even the Governor, Legislature, and state agencies - can achieve the complete vision for 2010 presented here. To realize the vibrant and prosperous Iowa painted in these pages, all Iowans will need to contribute. While many of the recommendations call for the Governor and Legislature to take action, all Iowans can also take action. As cities, schools, businesses, and organizations engage in their own strategic planning, they can include strategies that help grow Iowa, encourage entrepreneurs, and improve Iowa's quality of life. Business can sponsor new art and cultural attractions. Colleges and universities can attract new Iowans and become stronger economic engines for the state. Families can become more engaged in their neighborhoods. Communities of faith and service clubs can increase cross-culture understanding and celebrate the value of diversity. Towns can welcome new Iowans and capitalize on the opportunities created by technology. And much more. Here are five actions each of us can take in our communities: 1. Contribute time and talents to our schools and other local educational institutions. The quality of Iowa's schools turns on the quality of support and participation by the community. 2. Encourage entrepreneurship in Iowa, starting where we live. Support new business creation, especially new knowledge-based businesses, and the infrastructures needed to help them succeed. 3. Welcome new and returning Iowans to our corner of Iowa. Celebrate the new experiences and perspectives that will enrich our lives and help us grow Iowa. 4. Support quality of life projects in our communities, from outdoor recreation to the arts, from improving an existing treasure to creating new ones. 5. Become an active steward of our community's natural resources. From large projects like reclaiming old industrial sites to small ones like planting trees in the neighborhood or town park, each of us can help improve the water, soil, and air around us. In myriad ways, in major and everyday decisions, every Iowan can lead the way in creating the New Face of Iowa. Complete Version and Other Recommendations of the Governor's Strategic Planning Council The Council also recommends action in areas beyond those listed above. To receive a complete version of the Council's rationale, recommendations, and proceedings, please request a copy from [contact at DOM or ICN, TBD].
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