The City of Valparaiso works to provide quality public services to our residents. The last two years have offered us unique challenges and opportunities to serve our community. In this issue, we share 21 highlights of 2021 — in no particular order. We appreciate the community's support as we work together to achieve success in Valparaiso.
1. Mayor's Youth Council
was launched to engage youth and offer an opportunity for leadership development and career exploration. 18 Valparaiso High School juniors serve on the inaugural Youth Council.
2. Valparaiso Invests in Business Grants
were awarded to 50 local businesses, helping them to maintain operations and retain their workforce in response to the pandemic.
3. Shop Valpo Campaign
was launched by the City of Valparaiso, Valparaiso Events and Valpo Chamber to encourage all to shop and dine local this season.
4. Downtown Public Parking
expanded to include the Porter County parking garage at Napoleon and Indiana thanks to a partnership between the city and county.
5. Roadway Improvement Projects
were completed on nearly 17.6 lane miles of roadway paved throughout the city this year.
6. Business Development
was celebrated in Valparaiso as we welcome Journeyman Distillery, Amazon and more.
7. ValPAWraiso Dog Park
Ribbon Cutting and Celebration brought together community members and their furry friends. To date, the dog park has 800 members.
8. Reflection Statue
was installed downtown to pay tribute to the men and women of the Valparaiso Fire Department who have protected the city for more than 150 years.
9. Neighborhood Improvement Grants
were awarded to 21 neighborhoods this year, funding a record amount of $260,730 to go towards improvement projects throughout the city.
10. City Government Academy
gave a behind the scenes look at city government and how departments operate. About 25 participants completed the program in 2021, bringing the total to 75 local graduates.
11. Strategic Plan Input Sessions
gathered feedback from 560 residents through surveys, online sessions and more. Look for an update on the plan coming soon!
12. Good Neighbor Award
was presented to Susie Hord. The Good Neighbor Recognition was created to promote neighborhood involvement and community service.
13. Police Department
was recognized with CALEA reaccreditation and launched wellness initiatives to serve officers and the greater community.
14. Fire Department
expanded workforce with five new employees and enhanced their fleet by purchasing two new engines and a ladder truck this year.
15. Golf Resurgence
brought many visitors to Forest Park and Creekside golf courses this year with more than 47,500 rounds completed.
16. Block Parties
brought neighbors back together after a year of distancing. Through a special mini-grant, the city supported 25 neighborhood gatherings.
17. Community Volunteers
assisted with tree pruning and plantings, park events, Home Team Valpo projects and more. Thank you for your support!
18. Neighborhood Walks & Workshops
created connections with more than 25 neighborhood groups throughout the city.
19. City Website
completed its redesign and now offers a sleek look and improved navigation for our residents.
20. Valparaiso City Services
was recognized with state and national awards for operational and laboratory excellence, safety and groundwater protection.
21. Planning for the Future
was a priority for the administration, with studies underway for a future skate park, adult activity center, youth sports complex, an enhanced downtown and more.
