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Over the past several months, the Mayor’s Think Tank – featuring a group of individuals from several different professional fields – have met to discuss current developments and future ideas for how to improve the city of Winchester. 

The group met once more on the morning of Thursday, Dec. 5, though with an added benefit this time around. 

A bus took members to various sites around town, allowing them to see current developments first hand and later continue to discuss plans for further improving Winchester. 

“When you grow up in a small town like this….[you see] there’s a lot going on,” said Steve Crosby, a member of the Mayor’s Think Tank. “It’s really good for our community.” 

Different members of the Mayor’s Think present on Thursday included Christy Bush and Kelly Fithen of Clark County Public Schools, Josh Wood of Freedom Realty & Property Management, Allison Roberts of Traditional Bank, and Sue Staton. 

Though they were unable to make an appearance, other group members – such as Rhonda Blythe, Susan Bishop, Ricco Floyd, and Betty Jean Glasscock – have frequently contributed as well. 

Guided by current and former city staff that included Mayor JoEllen Reed, Administrative Assistant and Deputy City Clerk Dianna Layne, current City Manager Bruce Manley, and former City Manager Mike Flynn, the group visited a number of sites where city projects are occurring or have taken place. 

These included the high side of Main Street, Mutual Avenue, the Jackson Street Bridge, Depot Street, Lincoln Street, 5th Street, 7th Street, Fulton Road, the location of the upcoming Splash Park, and more. 

Afterward, with City Commissioner Kenny Book joining them, the group headed to Maka Mia Pizza for lunch and a discussion. 

Bush, who works as Director of Community Schools Initiative for CCPS, spoke about developments of blighted property – some of which can be found on Mutual Avenue. 

“I think that’s very interesting,” she said. “You see dilapidated pieces, and you all are doing something with them, and…they’re going to have a positive impact.” 

Witnessing improvements on Lincoln Street, where many homes built by Habitat for Humanity have been situated, was also a highlight for many. 

“I love what’s going on,” added Crosby. “That involves our community.” 

Other group members touched on developments to Fulton Road as well as information relative to the Main Street High Side project as largely worthwhile. 

The group also looked into considering future ideas – such as how to incorporate youth friendly options like an ice skating rink in the community, and ways to continue keeping the community well informed. 

Regarding the ice skating rink, Mayor Reed – who has long been in support and an advocate for it – spoke. 

“We’re [going to] have to raise some money to do that,” she said. “That’s on the possibility list.” 

Fithen, who works as Chief Academic Officer and Assistant Superintendent for CCPS, was one of many who expressed gratitude. 

“I think there’s value in a small group,” she said. “We can continue to be ambassadors and communicate the good things [happening].”