By Chris Jensen, Noblesville City Councilor, District 2
I often get asked, “How would you define Noblesville?” It is a question I have pondered a lot lately, and I think I have come up with a pretty fitting answer. A desirable suburban city with a unique and dynamic urban core. That’s my answer, but I would love to hear yours.
I have called Noblesville home my entire life, almost 32 years. What was once a quaint county seat, with historic buildings and cornfields, now looks very different. While many of the historic qualities remain the same, the cornfields have transformed into retail, commercial and residential developments.
While our downtown remains the gem of our community, we are no longer just defined by our historic courthouse square. Areas such as Exit 210, Morse Reservoir, Hazel Dell Parkway, the State Road 37 corridor and the booming east side prove we are a diverse melting pot of assets.
So, how does this city blend the strong, urban core with its growing suburban culture? It is a question I grapple with daily. I am confident that it starts with our residents. They are families, business owners, historians, farmers, retirees and hipsters, just to name a few. What do they all have in common? A love for our city.
So how do we come together and solve the issues of our future? The same way we have solved the issues of our past. We will collaborate on items we agree on, and we will passionately and positively debate and seek compromise on the issues where we disagree. Will we have challenges? Sure. All cities do, even great ones like ours. However, I believe challenge is just another word for opportunity.
As I stated in the beginning, I have my definition of our hometown. It is one that has changed, and will continue to change as Noblesville moves forward. So, what is your definition? How would you define Noblesville in one sentence? Or, what would your ideal definition be? As we continue to move forward, I would welcome your input. Noblesville will only continue to get better so long as residents take an active role. Please feel free to contact me via email at [email protected] or phone at 317-509-3134.
