Vision Commission column: Celebrating 25 years of transforming Hamilton

The Beginning: A community-driven vision

The journey started with the community’s input. Residents were invited to participate in focus groups, where their ideas laid the foundation for a comprehensive long-term plan. These insights, coupled with the city’s unique characteristics, helped shape the Vision 2020 framework. The Vision 2020 Commission, composed of dedicated community members, business leaders and local volunteers, began meeting monthly to transform these ideas into actionable projects.

Around 40-50 commissioners, including business owners, nonprofit executives, retirees, and passionate individuals, worked together to expand Hamilton’s potential. Smaller committees were established to focus on specific areas, and volunteers with specialized skills were encouraged to support the implementation of the Vision 2020 plan. The commission worked closely with Hamilton’s Mayor and City Council to ensure these projects received the support they needed to succeed.

Key initiatives and milestones

One notable success was the Great Miami Valley Rowing (GMVR) committee. This group not only helped recruit and hire a director but also spearheaded fundraising efforts to purchase rowing boats, secure indoor practice space, and market the sport’s benefits. Their hard work brought new focus to Hamilton’s riverfront, reintroducing the Great Miami River as an active and exciting space. The rowing teams brought attention to Hamilton, attracting both students and visitors to the city, a key first step in building a destination-focused community.

The Communications Committee was instrumental in keeping the public informed. They worked to promote the progress made by the Vision 2020 Commission and highlight the city’s improvements. Many residents may remember the quarterly Positive Insights 2020 insert in the Journal-News, a publication crafted by the Communications Committee to showcase the positive changes unfolding in Hamilton.

The Image Committee, focusing on Hamilton’s public image and appearance, collaborated with the Hamilton Health Department and the Sanitation Department to address neighborhood concerns. Volunteers walked through neighborhoods identifying properties in need of attention, whether due to overgrown grass, abandoned vehicles, or excessive trash. However, these walks also revealed hidden gems, beautifully maintained homes that deserved recognition. Longtime TV Hamilton producer, Jack Armstrong volunteered his photography services, capturing these homes for the “Image Awards.” Property owners were celebrated at City Council meetings for their efforts to beautify Hamilton. The committee also introduced the “10 Great Things About Hamilton” list, which included accolades like the Berkeley Water Award, recognizing Hamilton’s water as the “Best Tasting Water in the World.”

Building momentum: From vision to reality

As time passed, steady progress began to take shape. The Hamilton Community Foundation’s investment in the former Hamiltonian Hotel marked one of the first major developments. The hotel’s renovation provided high-quality accommodations in downtown Hamilton, stabilizing the area and attracting further investment. This sparked a wave of development, including:

Each of these initiatives contributed to Hamilton’s growing appeal and the realization of the Vision Commission’s goals.

Looking ahead

The work of the Vision Commission has truly transformed Hamilton from a city with great potential to a thriving hub for residents, businesses, and visitors alike. As we celebrate 25 years of dedication and success, we look forward to continuing our mission, supporting Hamilton’s growth and ensuring it remains a place that attracts new opportunities, fosters community engagement, and offers a high quality of life for all.

Sonja Kranbuhl is a board member and the secretary of the Vision Commission.