BELTON, Mo. – The “Oscar” awards for U.S. cities and civic leadership are about to go out and Belton is one of 29 finalists that have made cut from 200 applications.
“Belton is the only Missouri City named as a finalist,” said Mayor Jimmy Odom proudly. “We submitted an application in March for consideration as “
The All American City”, by April we knew we were a finalist and we think we can win.”
The All American City award was developed by Teddy Roosevelt. It is considered America’s oldest and most prestigious community recognition award. Since 1949 the All-America City Award has honored communities of all sizes for civic excellence, volunteer spirit and cooperation across jurisdictional boundaries and efforts to enhance the quality of life for children and youth.
Belton put together an application that highlighted, in part, the city’s Vision Team.
“The Vision Committee is a grass roots planning committee that works to enhance community image and to develop a clear message for the future of Belton,” explained the Mayor. “It brings people together in our community from all walks of life. Its motto is ‘Proud Past, Bright Future’.”
Belton emphasized in their application two of their famous citizens from the past: Carrie Nation and Dale Carnegie. Odom stressed the importance of these famous citizens in the current and future Belton as the city builds on their legacy.
The application also highlighted the Belton Community Center which was built with bond money and boasts an Indoor Aquatic Facility. The city recently won an architectural award for its Fire Station number two, also built with bond money.
Belton is ready for the next step in the process.
“We’ve assembled a delegation that will be attending the awards ceremony in Tampa, Florida June 16-19. This delegation will present to a jury of judges what makes Belton a great All American City,” Odom said. “The trip is being paid for entirely through donations from citizens and local businesses.”
The city has raised $11,000 for the trip. Ten awards will be given. Odom said his goal is to return Friday evening June 19, in time to announce whether Belton is a winner at the annual Community Days celebrations that weekend.
Gladstone, Mo. was declared a winner last year among the top ten All American Cities. Shawnee, Kan., and Lawrence, Kan., were both finalists for The All-American City Award back in 2007, but did not make the final top ten cut. Kansas City was a winner in 2006.
