We are thrilled to host Mayor Greta Kearns of Grandview Heights, who joins us to discuss the transformative journey the city has experienced under her leadership.

Since taking office in January 2020, Mayor Kearns has navigated substantial challenges, including a significant leadership transition and the global pandemic.

Under her guidance, Grandview Heights has enhanced its technology and communications infrastructure, expanded social services, and emboldened its commitment to safety by investing in essential infrastructure projects.

The city has managed to attract 20 new businesses post-pandemic, significantly increased its housing units, and enhanced its reputation as a vibrant place to live and work.

Memorable Moments

00:00 Building leadership, capacity, and operations amid challenges.

04:11 Invested in talent, stable, proud, underinvestment challenges.

06:47 Building relocation plans driven by essential services.

10:29 Change embraced, benefits outweigh challenges in community.

13:19 Upgraded tech infrastructure with broad reach, engagement.

Top Takeaways

1. **Leadership Transition and Continuity**: Mayor Kearns highlighted the challenges and opportunities of taking over leadership after a long-standing mayor, emphasizing the necessity of managing considerable staff transitions and appointments in key leadership roles.

2. **Infrastructure Modernization**: The mayor discussed the significance of upgrading critical infrastructure, such as IT services and municipal buildings, to meet current demands and future needs, underscoring an era of building capacity and updating outdated systems.

3. **Crisis Management During the Pandemic**: The discussion provided insight into how Grandview Heights navigated the COVID-19 pandemic without cutting services, transitioning to virtual platforms for public meetings, and managing city operations under unprecedented conditions.

4. **Community and Economic Growth**: Mayor Kearns expressed pride in the community's growth, including the addition of new businesses and housing units, reflecting on how the city's economic and demographic expansion aligns with regional development trends.

5. **Fiscal Strategy and Voter Support**: The mayor detailed the city's approach to financial management and the successful voter approval for funding new municipal facilities, highlighting the importance of community support in funding public projects.

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With more than 60 years as an integral part of the Grandview, Upper Arlington, and Marble Cliff communities, the Tri-Village Chamber Partnership is dedicated to a singular purpose - the success of the business community.

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This season is presented by:

• City of Upper Arlington.
• Robles Designs
• City of Grandview