Patrick acknowledges the city’s proactive stance on this issue. “A lot of municipalities are trying to figure that out. Our city is no exception,” she says. One of the key initiatives in this regard is Operation ReAwaken, which will develop a live-work-play community downtown. “They’re looking for a place where they can live, walk to the grocery store, walk to have any kind of entertainment,” she explains. This vision aligns perfectly with the preferences of younger professionals seeking convenience and a vibrant urban lifestyle. In addition to revitalizing the downtown district, the city is exploring opportunities to connect with the high school population, even the ones that are going off to college. Mayor Patrick notes that the goal is to introduce these students to essential jobs within the community, including positions at Robins Air Force Base, industrial partners, and city workforce roles, emphasizing the importance of presenting job opportunities that may not require higher education 135 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 05, ISSUE 09 WARNER ROBINS, GA
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