From Oct. 26-29, a study group of 26 Ukrainian delegates were hosted by the City of Morgantown and WVU through the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) to learn about the functions of city government, local food systems, economic development, recreation and tourism, and more.
The delegation is a part of the Decentralization Offering Better Results and Efficiency (DOBRE) program through the ICMA. Through the duration of the trip, the delegates met and spoke with multiple representatives from WVU and the City of Morgantown on various city topics, and toured Coopers Rock State Forest.
On Tuesday, Oct. 29, city council members and city representatives held a seminar in City Council Chambers to educate the delegates on the functions of local government. The seminar included discussions on government structure in the United States and best practices for effective, transparent implementation of policy.
One of the biggest takeaways for delegate Serhii Tkecheuko was the number of active non-profit organizations in Morgantown.
“In my city in Ukraine, we have 250,000 citizens and only 10 active non-profit organizations,” said Tkecheuko. “I learned strategies to work toward gaining more active non-profit organizations in my hometown.”
The ICMA DOBRE program strengthens local governance, improves conditions for development of communities, and promotes stability. The DOBRE program helps local governments in Ukraine effectively manage new responsibilities and support stronger community cohesion through citizen engagement.
“Having the opportunity to host the study group was an honor,” said City Manager Paul Brake. “I have a greater appreciation for our government here in Morgantown. I’m grateful to have been able to help our counterparts across the world.”
On Tuesday, Oct. 29, city council members and city representatives held a seminar in City Council Chambers to educate the delegates on the functions of local government.