Our Best Story
We have what some believe to be an impossible task. All social and economic indicators point to concern for the foreseeable future for our city. Our declining population is a serious problem.
Muncie’s population and school enrollment have been in steady decline since 1967. Both have been accelerated by the Great Recession of 2007. Since then, our nation and many neighboring communities have benefitted from a 12% standard of living increase. Muncie, however, has experienced a 7% decrease.
- New housing construction is non-existent.
- Businesses have left our city.
- Families have left our neighborhoods in search of others to teach our children.
- Employers have difficulty maintaining a competent workforce due to our opioid crises.
These facts are irrefutable.
These facts are irrefutable.
If we don’t stop outward migration within the next few years, Muncie’s population will be less than that of Delaware County. That means our portion of Local Option Income Tax (LOIT) – which we rely on for various core city functions and services—could be significantly reduced. This could make our recovery even more difficult.
Some believe we can’t fix it. I know that we can fix it.
We can write a new dialogue that lifts up our neighborhoods and that creates greater economic prosperity. The impossible only takes a little longer than the possible. My promise to you? I’ll work tirelessly to help our community head towards prosperity.
We need to start writing our best story.