Dr. James Joseph McCready, a local chiropractor, introduced the Blue Zone Initiative to the Fountain City Council on Jan. 14, asking the city to consider supporting a community-driven health and longevity pilot in Fountain.

McCready said the program grew out of National Geographic research identifying longevity hot spots and a set of shared practices the foundation calls the "Power 9." He described the initiative as "promoting healthy behaviors, creating supportive environments, and fostering a sense of purpose and community cohesion." He said the Blue Zone Foundation has launched pilot programs in other U.S. cities and that the initiative typically requires active community engagement and volunteer coordination.

Scott Trainer, who met with McCready before the meeting, told council the city’s role would likely be supportive rather than directive: "the role of the city isn't as necessarily the tip of the spear, but as definitely a critical supporter," he said, citing examples such as trails and recreational infrastructure that could be part of the effort.

McCready outlined examples of recommended strategies from the foundation, including expanded walkability and recreational programs, plant-forward food promotion, partnerships with schools and businesses on healthy options, volunteer and intergenerational programs, and business incentives to support employee wellness. He emphasized the program is voluntary and community-led: "if there's no interest at the community level, then, you know, it's a great idea. But not all good ideas need to be implemented."

Council members asked questions and expressed general interest. Council Member Hinton said the lifestyle components—walking, gardening and cumulative daily activity—matched experience she’d seen living abroad. Council Member Herzberg thanked McCready for bringing the item forward and said she was "very interested to learn more about this." Mayor pro tem and other council members discussed next steps; staff said Trainer will be the point person to follow up.

No formal action was taken. McCready said he would continue outreach to the foundation and the community and report back when more details on implementation and any policy or zoning changes are available.

The presentation materials and initial contact information are available through city staff; Trainer will coordinate follow-up with McCready and the Blue Zone Foundation if the city receives further interest.