13 www.ReadMPM.com | www.MountPleasantMagazine.com | www.MountPleasantPodcast.com In celebration of the ongoing work of past National Civic League’s All-America Cities, an honor that Mount Pleasant earned in 2010, 2018 and 2023, the organization introduced its All-America City Hall of Fame Award in 2019. On June 27, Mount Pleasant became just its ninth inductee in recognition of the town’s inclusive community-engaging Public Input Matters program. Submissions were evaluated based on a Civic Index, an infrastructure measurement tool that requires applicants to demonstrate a shared vision, civic engagement, inclusiveness and equity, collaboration, innovation and impact. At a ceremony in Denver, Colorado, Assistant Town Administrator Christiane Farrell accepted the award on behalf of Mount Pleasant, along with her colleagues, Planning Director Michelle Reed and Planning Division Chief Liz Boyles. In her speech, Farrell explained that the Public Input Matters initiative originated as a way to meaningfully engage with residents, soliciting their feedback about how to overcome the challenges that inevitably arise in a fast-growing, rapidly-changing community. During the seven-month program, she said, the Town of Mount Pleasant held seven in-person district meetings, each tailored to the unique character and priorities of the town’s various sections. To optimize attendance, the gatherings were held after work hours in accessible locations such as the library, Mount Pleasant Waterworks and other town facilities. “Rather than relying on traditional town hall meetings where staff speak to citizens from podiums, use AI or take surveys, our cross-departmental teams created an interactive experience that encouraged conversations about important concerns,” Farrell said. “Through district-based discussions and other avenues, residents helped shape the priorities that directly inform the town’s future planning efforts.” As a result of the community’s input, a collective voice formed across all seven districts, expressing concern over issues such as transportation safety. To overcome this challenge, the town created a Safe Streets & Roads for All program that will expand Mount Pleasant Way with a town-wide multimodal path. In 2023, the town secured a A Hall of Fame Community National recognition for exceptional civic leadership BY SARAH ROSE all american city
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