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In conclusion Through the Aging Strategic Plan, the needs of our aging community are closely aligned to the County's mission of visionary leadership and good stewardship to provide services to continually enhance quality of life. The plan provides a glimpse at the drastic changes in our County's demographic landscape. In less than two decades, the percentage of senior citizens in Cabarrus County will increase as the percentage of school -aged children in the County decreases. As the County plans for future programs, facilities and opportunities, it's important to consider the impact of our aging population on our resources. The Aging Strategic Plan has incorporated the voices of our entire community in a unique and comprehensive public /private partnership that involves nearly every County department and our local municipalities, faith -based groups, and non - profit and for - profit partners. A community survey provided plan developers with a guide to understanding resident's current and future needs. With the input of the Cabarrus County Board of Commissioners, plan developers will build on these initial assessments and create an action plan that follows the vision of Cabarrus County Government. As an active document, there is room for the plan to grow and change as we progress over the five years of implementation. Staff identified six priority areas to develop the Aging Strategic Plan core: education and information, housing and home improvement, health and wellness, recreation and entertainment, transportation and accessibility, and employment and income. These were narrowed to two specific and attainable goals: develop partnerships to identify, evaluate and collaborate on programs and services; and raise awareness of the programs and services offered in Cabarrus County. The plan also identifies specific tactics for each area of focus. Accomplishing these tactics at a professional level will require support from the Board of Commissioners, operational support and guidance from County leadership, continued partnerships and additional resources. There are many options and decisions to consider as we define how to implement the Aging Strategic Plan. However, there are steps that our County government can take to help limit the physical, social and financial effects of aging experienced by Cabarrus County residents and reduce future time, money and risk to the County. The taskforce hopes the County, our community and our partners can stand behind this assessment and move forward with the Aging Strategic Plan as a gateway to a more informed public, improved access to services and housing, a healthier and more active aging population, safer communities, and better prevention of abuse and exploitation of older adults by the year 2020. 3.17.14 DRAFT Cabarrus County Aging Strategic Plan 14 1 -2 Page 91