As part of a strategic planning effort, Kentucky's economic development cabinet is gathering input from Kentuckians about our vision for the economic future of the commonwealth over the next five years through public forums held in different cities across the Commonwealth. Jefferson County members participated in one yesterday in Louisville.

Common themes emerged as the nearly 100 people present answered the question: "What are the biggest economic challenges faced by Kentucky today?" Consistent answers were poor education, inadequate tax structure, lack of public transportation, and Kentucky's national image.

Several participants mentioned that the legislators in Frankfort seemed out of touch with the types of innovations and policies needed to move Kentucky forward, including small business incubation models and renewable energy policy. Christina Shadle of Greater Louisville, Inc. noted "nearby states have great models for green incentives that we could learn from."

KFTC member Peggy Wenker felt like the forum was important and was glad she attended. "I think we need new incentives for small businesses - more entrepreneurship. And, because there is no money that Kentucky specifically sets aside for women and minorities in business, people give up easily." She said she liked many of the ideas, but looked forward to seeing a specific plan with concrete ideas about how we accomplish those things.

Peggy also mentioned that she would have like to see the Cabinet hold a forum during non-business hours. "It seemed like everyone there knew each other. I'd like to see more regular people participate in conversations like these, but you would need to hold one of these at night."

There is one more forum in Northern Kentucky - plan to attend if you live nearby: Thursday, August 4, 9 a.m. – noon ET, The METS Center, Auditorium, 3861 Olympic Blvd., Erlanger.

You can also contribute your thoughts online. Fill out a survey at http://www.kentuckysunbridledfuture.com/. Click on the button that says “Provide your input.” Then click on the small underlined link that says, “resident survey.”