PHILOMATH 2050 community engagement update
One of the most exciting parts of the Philomath 2050 process has been connecting with community members face-to-face.
Throughout the spring, the project team participated in several community events, including multiple Farmers Markets, Library LEGO Day, Philomath Pride, and the Benton County Historical Society's Anniversary Party. These opportunities allowed us to have meaningful one-on-one conversations with residents of all ages and backgrounds, hear personal stories, and learn more about what people value most about Philomath and their hopes for the community's future.
These conversations provided valuable depth and context to the feedback we received through other engagement efforts. What was especially encouraging is that the themes emerging from these in-person discussions closely align with what we've heard through the community survey.
Online engagement was also incredibly successful, with more than 600 community members participating in the Philomath 2050 survey. This level of participation reflects the strong sense of community that makes Philomath special and the genuine interest residents have in helping shape the city's future.
The success of the survey would not have been possible without the dedicated efforts of our Steering Committee and Stakeholder Group, who helped spread the word, encourage participation, and engage their networks throughout the process.
The message we've heard throughout this engagement process is clear: people care deeply about Philomath and want to be part of shaping what comes next. That's exactly the kind of community spirit that will make Philomath 2050 a shared vision for the future.
PHILOMATH 2050 Kick-off Celebration
The Philomath Visioning Kickoff Celebration took place on January 15 at the Philomath Scout Lodge and marked the public launch of the community visioning initiative. Open to everyone, the evening featured refreshments, music and engaging activities that invited participants to begin imagining what Philomath could look like 24 years into the future. The event also created an opportunity for community members and partners to connect with one another and meet the SSW Consulting team supporting the project, setting an energetic and welcoming tone for the work ahead.
PHILOMATH 2050 visioning workshop
The Philomath Visioning Workshop brought together local community partners to reflect on Philomath’s past and chart a path forward. Facilitated by SSW Consulting, the workshop introduced the project’s purpose and timeline and centered on a graphic history exercise that helped participants explore key historical moments and experiences that have shaped the community to date. With time focused on understanding where Philomath has been, the group also discussed next steps for the project, including using a community partner snapshot to help inform future facilities asset mapping work.