02-09-2026 Agenda Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Strengths: What We Do Well Strengths represent internal factors that enable performance, achievement, resilience, or harmony within the community.These are the attributes, capabilities, and resources that position the City to deliver quality services and sustain forward momentum. They are factors that are in the control of the City. 22 Strengths were listed by Council members largely focused on the presence of capable, hardworking staff, a committed, positive and agreeable city council, cooperation among council and staff, strong community leaders, engaged citizens, a giving community, a forward -thinking and inclusive city manager, committed department heads, and experienced workers. After grouping the responses the biggest strengths identified were staff expertise and council unity. Other notable strengths were community engagement (including engaged citizens and a giving community) and leadership (specifically strong community leaders willing to listen). The discussion highlighted that the city's people, from the resident level all the way to Council, are seen as a primary strength. This consistency was very telling. The strength of the staff is also considered crucial for recruiting large employers, being almost the second most important factor after educational opportunities. It was stressed that this strength needs to be fostered. Importantly, downtown Paris is authentic and vibrant in its own right to the local community, unlike some other downtowns in Texas that have become more of a novelty. The discussion also extended to the surrounding neighborhoods, even those struggling, noting they have "great bones," character, old growth trees, well-established connections, and committed people, indicating opportunity. Each of these Strengths will be crucial for overcoming both Weaknesses from within and taking advantage of Opportunities available while increasing resiliency against outside Threats outside of the control of the City. People and Leadership • Experienced, dedicated staff across all departments—consistently identified as the City's greatest asset • Council unity and cooperation among elected officials and staff • Forward -thinking, inclusive City Manager • Engaged citizens and strong community leaders willing to give time and resources Place and Character • Historic downtown with authentic character—a competitive advantage for tourism and quality of life • Land availability and relatively affordable cost compared to regional competitors • Natural resources including climate, water availability, and developable land