MESSAGE FROM THE MAYOR

On October 26, the city council approved our 2011 city budget. This yearly process requires cooperation and a unified vision of what we hope to bring to Fort Wayne.

Our economy has struggled during the last few years; however, in the worst of times, I believe the City of Fort Wayne is one of the best run cities in the country. While other cities are cutting costs by laying off police officers and firefighters, plowing snow only between the hours of 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., and not filling potholes, I am committed to keep our city flourishing. We are constantly looking at ways to streamline operations and curtailing unnecessary spending.

I’m confident that the 2011 budget will meet our needs as a city – to continue to be a place where good jobs grow and families thrive. Our 2011 budget encompasses our current needs and also has an essential element that projects our future needs as well. We know that the decisions we make today directly impact our future.

I ask for and expect a great deal of my administration. They come to work every day looking for new ways to meet the needs of our city. As a result, we have new business initiatives to help make it easier for businesses to open and expand; we are making our fleet of city vehicles greener through the use of hybrid cars so we can reduce our carbon footprint; we are moving toward one-cart recycling bins to make it easier for residents to be more eco-friendly; we are issuing new commercial façade grants, assisting businesses that wish to increase their storefront appeal,  so we all can feel proud of the way the city looks and feels. These are only some of the highlights we have accomplished, and the list continues at great length.

Click to advertise on this website

I am going to work to keep everyone involved and aware of our plans. Your voice matters. Through neighborhood meetings, attending council meetings, calling 311 with your ideas, or writing a letter to us expressing your concerns, we are here and are listening to you.

I hope as you look around the city you can see and feel the changes. We want to keep as much of the economic hardships that our nation faces out of your path. Fort Wayne is going to stay a city that flourishes because as a city, as a collective community and as active residents, we know that our future is bright and the progress we make today will ensure our success as a city for years to come.