In 1998, a coalition of government, business, and civic leaders, with the input from citizens, prepared a strategic plan for Etowah. This plan, entitled "Setting the Stage for the Future: A Strategic Agenda for Etowah" was useful in outlining a shared vision for the community and a long-range agenda for development. The vision statement on the cover of this report was included in the 1998 plan and is still appropriate in 2005.

Since 1998 this plan has been annually reviewed at the Chamber of Commerce Planning Retreat and updated. Considerable progress has been made each year on past goals and new goals are set as our vision evolves with the changes in our community. Tremendous success has been achieved over the past several years. New industries have selected Etowah for their companies, more retail stores have opened, the attitude toward business in Etowah has improved, and the general quality of life has been enhanced.

This report recognizes the progress of the past several years and outlines a revised set of goals and recommendations to guide government and community leaders. In preparing this report, the planning committee undertook these steps:

• Identified desired practical vision or "accomplishments" for Etowah for the next three years.
• Identified possible "obstacles" to achieving this vision.
• Identified goals and recommendations for action.

This report was prepared by the Etowah Area Chamber of Commerce with the assistance of the Southeast Industrial Development Authority.