Residents of Pleasant Valley and River Road are taking steps to strengthen their community by collecting signatures to become a recognized neighborhood association. The designation would provide them with access to city assistance for critical improvements, such as ADA-accessible sidewalks, park renovations, and support for local businesses.
Leading the initiative is Hope McCoy, a longtime Pleasant Valley resident who has worked closely with Potter County Commissioners and city officials to ensure the effort follows proper procedures.
“We’re going to start doing as much as possible on our own so that we can show the City Oversight Committee that, hey, we’re serious. We’re going to start doing our part,” McCoy said.
What Does Neighborhood Recognition Mean?
A recognized neighborhood association serves as an official channel for communication between local government and residents. It opens doors to city planning resources, revitalization grants, and funding opportunities that can help improve quality of life.
For McCoy and her neighbors, the goal is to secure funding for community projects that will make the area safer, more accessible, and more appealing for families and businesses.
“We would like some of that funding out here so that we can thrive, grow, clean up, and make this a better place for our children,” McCoy explained.
Building Momentum
Residents are wasting no time. While the petition drive continues, they are also organizing community efforts to demonstrate their commitment. By tackling small improvements now, they hope to prove to city officials that their neighborhood is ready for investment.
A key part of the process is engaging more residents and ensuring they understand the benefits of neighborhood recognition. To that end, a public meeting has been scheduled for March 1 from 1 p.m. to 3 p.m. at the North Branch Library (1500 NE 24th Avenue). The meeting will provide information, answer questions, and allow residents to show support.