Building Infrastructure, Housing, and Community First: A Conversation with Mayor Starr

In this episode of Growing Better Together, MORPC sits down with Mayor Christie Ward of Lockbourne to discuss the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen, the history of Lockbourne Air Force Base, and the lasting impact these stories continue to have on the community today. Mayor Ward reflects on her decade of leadership, shares what makes Lockbourne unique, and explores how honoring the past can help shape a strong future for Central Ohio.

In this episode, we sit down with Mayor Chris Amorose Groomes as she reflects on her historic tenure as MORPC’s longest-serving board chair and looks ahead to her new role leading passenger rail efforts. From Central Ohio’s rapid growth to the evolving needs of our region, Mayor Groomes shares her perspective on where we’ve been and where we’re headed next.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Colonel Powers, Commander of the 121st Air Refueling Wing, as we explore leadership, service, and the important connections between military and community.In this episode, we discuss the role of the Air National Guard in supporting our region, the values that guide leadership in times of challenge, and the importance of honoring those who serve.

What does the future of our cities really look like? In this episode, we’re joined by Greg Lindsay—urbanist, journalist, and leading voice on the intersection of technology, mobility, and city design. Greg explores how emerging trends are reshaping the way we live, work, and move.

In this episode, we sit down with Mayor Michael T. Bivens from the City of Whitehall to hear his inspiring personal journey to public service and how his experiences shape his leadership today. He also shares what makes the City of Whitehall such a vibrant and welcoming community, highlighting the strength that comes from its rich diversity.

Tune in as Mayor Starr of Mount Vernon, Ohio shares insights on infrastructure priorities, housing initiatives, and a commitment to putting residents first.

Welcome to Growing Better Together, a new show from the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission, where we talk with leaders about how Central Ohio can grow better as we get bigger.For our first episode, we’re joined by Ray LaHood — former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and longtime advocate for infrastructure and bipartisanship. From his time in Congress to leading a $70 billion transportation budget under President Obama, Secretary LaHood has spent his career focused on building connections — both across America’s roads and rails, and across political divides.