The Mayor and Council were each asked to submit their "vision" for the City of Ashland in the year 2029.

At the 2004-2005 Council Goal Setting, Mayor, Councilors and senior staff divided into four groups to review the seven vision statements. The group focused on three points: What is common among these vision statements? What is missing from the statements? What is Council's role in the implementation of a vision and what is staff's role in the implementation of a vision?

The following themes resonated throughout the vision statements and were identified by each group:

• Protection of the environment and enhanced natural areas including open space and riparian
• Alternative modes of transportation
• Strong civic pride and respect for local government
• A diverse and sustainable economy with an emphasis on clean industry and technology arenas
• An aesthetically pleasing community
• Thriving schools
• Fiscally sound local government
• Successful conservation efforts
• Affordable and accessible housing

The groups identified the following themes that were missing from the vision statements:

• The relationship of Ashland to the rest of the valley
• Issues related to economic growth and population growth (what is acceptable growth?).
• Regional partnerships
• Public Involvement
• How will elected officials make decisions?

The council's role in implementing the vision is:

• Formulate and communicate policy
• Represent Ashland and actively participate in regional, state and federal problem solving on issues that relate to Ashland and the valley
• Establish priorities
• Be fiscally responsible and be responsive to citizens
• Work in partnership with staff
• Be prepared to modify and re-shape the visions as things change

The staff's role in implementing the vision is:

• Provide alternatives to Council to accomplish the vision
• Recommend priorities and timelines
• Maintain infrastructure and high standards of customer service
• Report regularly to council
• Advise Council in technical fields