The Principles

Simple, clear principles will help in the creation of a common vision and unified purpose for using the Trust and Settlement funds. The following are proposed as the basis for this fundamental component:

1. Recommendations for the uses of the Trust and Settlement funds should be in alignment with the philosophy expressed in the Fort Wayne Community Trust Agreement (General Ordinance No. G-75-06-27), as outlined therein:
   • Use of the funds should directly benefit the people of Fort Wayne; and
   • The fund should be used "for purposes which will promote the cultural, recreational, public, civic or economic well being of the community."
2. Past City of Fort Wayne planning documents that have been adopted by the Fort Wayne City Council and have been based upon community input should be given priority when selecting options for use of these funds. Other community planning documents may also serve as valuable points of reference.*
3. The uses of the Trust and Settlement funds should benefit the greater good of the community and be in its long-term best interests. The uses should serve as a catalyst for desired activity and/or additional investment; should strengthen the community; should enhance its position as the regional center of Northeast Indiana; and help to establish Fort Wayne as a place of pride and opportunity for all – now and for generations to come. To ensure the funds' maximum impact, the uses should encourage the leveraging of resources.
4. Community involvement is a crucial element in the process for recommending uses of the Trust and Settlement funds.
5. The process to determine the uses of the Trust and Settlement funds should be deliberative, inclusive, strategic, farsighted, reflective of the spirit of the Trust and Settlement, sensitive to the community's distinct characteristics and committed to public participation.