DEAR WAYNEDALE READERS
The Green Ribbon Commission has been meeting to develop a comprehensive energy and clean air plan for the community. I have challenged the Commission to create an action plan that includes goals and performance measures to reduce energy costs and consumption and improve air quality. Our community must be a leader in reducing energy costs and air pollution to be more competitive in gaining and retaining jobs. The Commission’s work will compliment our Green City Initiative that includes hybrid vehicles, ethanol and biodiesel fuels, greenways and trails, and technology to improve services.
The Commission will provide advice and recommendations to the City on goals and strategies to conserve energy and improve air quality. They will raise awareness of air quality and energy issues within the community, and encourage citizens and businesses to engage in energy savings and improved air quality practices. The Commission will also recommend specific and measurable goals that improve air quality, reduce energy costs and improve the economic, environmental, and quality of life of current and future generations.
We recently recognized 72 local businesses for expanding their operations in 2005. The award-winning companies announced over $400 million in new investments in 2005. These projects will retain over 8,700 employees and create over 1,700 jobs. We are committed to retaining and gaining quality jobs. The efforts of the Fort Wayne-Allen County Economic Development Alliance have resulted in millions of dollars of investments as well as new jobs and job retention. Our $1 Billion Invest Fort Wayne plan will assist in attracting new businesses and growing existing businesses.
We’re pleased to announce the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) program brought $1.1 million back to working families in the community. For the second year in a row, more than $500,000 of the $1.1 million was directly from the earned income tax credit. The EITC program assists lower income working families apply for tax refunds.
High performance partnerships get great results for residents in our community. Our dedicated volunteers make this program a model to follow. We are bringing hope and opportunity to hard working families that benefit from tax refunds that they have earned.
Along with financial institutions, other EITC partners included:
* Volunteer Center at RSVP * Wayne Township Trustee’s Office
* IRS * 1st Source Bank
* CANI – Lake Avenue * CANI – Salvation Army
* East Wayne Street Center *United Way of Allen County/211
* Purdue Extension * Vincent House
*Neighborhood Health Clinics
* Tower Bank
Graham Richard
Mayor
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