Regional Council of Rural Counties Annual Conference

By Erin Klaesius,

California Biodiversity Council

Several years ago, the California Biodiversity Council made a decision in their strategic planning process to actively seek and develop closer ties with local government in California. Consequently, in 1998, the Council fashioned a partnership with the Regional Council of Rural Counties (RCRC) to meet yearly at the RCRC Annual Conference.

RCRC was formed to coordinate and enhance the influence of rural county governments at the legislature and state government levels. The RCRC and its dedicated members are constantly working together and, in doing so, are defining and shaping the future of rural California.

These annual joint meetings present a valuable opportunity for the two Councils to collaborate on certain issues of mutual interest. RCRC staff describes the event as a great opportunity to network with others interested in the success of rural communities. All discussions will lead back to the main theme of exploring strategies and tools to establish links needed to create, maintain, and sustain thriving rural communities in California.

Although topics pertaining particularly to Biodiversity Council members will be discussed on Wednesday, September 20, the Regional Council of Rural Counties Annual Conference finishes out the week with additional, thought-provoking items. After the topics addressed by CBC on Wednesday, the two Councils will convene for a cocktail hour, a BBQ-style dinner, entertainment, and a chance to mingle.

On Thursday morning the DoubleTree Hotel will provide a breakfast for both CBC participants from Wednesday and those who are attending the entire RCRC Annual Conference. The RCRC Annual Conference will begin with a welcome session and introductions. At this point, the conference will turn away from general CBC issues to address various facets of RCRC’s conference theme—Thriving Rural Communities and Developing Links to Prosperity.

The first gathering will be devoted to a discussion of qualities that businesses seek when considering locating to rural communities. As California continues its rapid growth trend, businesses are exploring the benefits of relocating to a rural community. The advantages can far outweigh an urban setting. This first topic will employ both speakers and discussion among attendees to determine what qualities make a small, rural community attractive to a large business.

Once a business decides to leave the big city, rural communities are often faced with various types of infrastructure problems. Speakers and audience members will offer ideas on how to deal with the pressures of a rapidly expanding community.

The afternoon will round out with success stories from thriving rural communities throughout the state and an informative panel discussion. Thursday evening's dinner will be a time to talk and network with members of both Councils.

The Regional Council packed Friday’s schedule with various board meetings. For more information on Friday’s events please take a look at the RCRC website, www.rcrcnet.org.

Registration for all portions of the conference ends September 13, 2000. If you would like to register or would like more information, please contact Erin Klaesius, CBC Communications Coordinator, (916) 227-2661.