In November 2025, The Lakeside Association Board of Directors received the Community Engagement Results prepared by Beyond Strategy Consulting Group.
Cassie Breecher shared an overview of the findings with the Board on November 14. Her deliverable reflects the input from nearly 200 Lakesiders who participated through interviews, facilitated discussions, surveys and written feedback. The Board will review the results in detail during its February Strategic Workshop to identify action steps and recommended priorities for the next phase of Lakeside’s strategic plan.
Unique Attributes
The results highlight what makes Lakeside distinctive and deeply valued. According to Cassie’s conversations, our people are our greatest strength and are passionate, loyal and highly engaged. Iconic spaces such as the dock, Hoover Auditorium and the lakefront serve as emotional anchors, while the Chautauqua mission and heritage continue to inspire the community. Participants envision a future where Lakeside is safe and welcoming for all generations, financially sustainable and accessible, and committed to preserving historic charm while embracing thoughtful modernization. Strong governance, clear communication, balanced programming, and living “The Lakeside Way” through civility and respect are all part of the shared vision.
Opportunities for Growth
At the same time, the summary identifies important growth opportunities. Rebuilding trust in governance and administration through consistent action emerged as a priority. Community members raised questions about defining the official season and about how to honor Lakeside’s religious heritage while welcoming diverse perspectives. Deferred maintenance and modernization were identified as urgent priorities, and the waterfront was recognized as a centerpiece with untapped potential.
Looking Ahead
Those interviewed offered constructive ideas for Lakeside’s future. These included setting a clear strategic direction with measurable goals, communicating decisions and progress openly, continuing to evolve governance practices to strengthen trust, and prioritizing maintenance and operational readiness. Participants also expressed interest in bold moves such as reimagining the waterfront, refining fee structures, and activating volunteer talent. These insights represent shared hopes that can inform and strengthen Lakeside’s next steps.
Next Steps & Community Engagement
To support shared understanding ahead of the Board’s February Strategic Workshop, President & CEO Charles Allen will host two virtual Lunch & Learn sessions in January focused on the Community Engagement Results.
- The session on January 8 will review pages 1-11, including Knowing Lakeside, Purpose & Process, Participation Overview, and Vision for the Future.
- The second session on January 15 will review pages 12-22, focusing on Existing Strengths & Assets and Community Suggestions for Change.
Each session will include time for questions and input to help ensure alignment as the Board moves into strategic planning.
The Board’s February Strategic Workshop will be a critical step in translating community input into clear, actionable priorities. Through preparation, open communication and accountability, Lakeside will move forward with clarity while remaining grounded in its mission and heritage.
