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Public Comments - Speeches
Monmouth Mayor's Report
August 3, 1999Tonight's Mayor's Report will be somewhat longer than usual because there are four major topics that I want to cover:
- Information gained from the Oregon Mayor's Conference
- Recognition for some ongoing community projects
- The issues surrounding the Department of Public Safety Standards and Training - and the possibility of its relocation.
- And Goals for this evening;
First: The Oregon Mayor's Conference was a great opportunity to see what other communities are doing, why - and assess lessons learned.
At the conference several interesting issues were raised: 1) Smart Jitney's; 2) Aumsville's Y2K Plan) and 3) growth strategies.
Second, I want to publicly recognize some ongoing projects: 1) The Community Skatepark Association (and the work done - back table); 2) Downtown Development Steering Committee; and 3) The National Night Out - just a little over an hour ago, I got out of the dunk tank with Mayor McArdle and it seems that the event is turning into another success. In truth, all of these projects are on the right track and making progress.
In fact, Carl Nightengale and Emerson Nutter have been tireless advocates for getting the skatepark done before the end of the summer; Carl is here tonight if you have any questions.
Third, I want to share with you what I know about the budget note and the possibility of DPSST moving within the next two years.
The recent history and the growing needs of the DPSST have developed into a situation where the organization is looking for the best place to do its business - places elsewhere as well as Monmouth.
I know I don't need to explain the potential impact of such a move to this body but it is a potential and I suggest that we begin thinking about ways we can ensure its continued success here in our city.
Fourth, I want to say that I am pleased that we are going to fill out our boards and commissions this evening. This new process has been a learning experience but over time I think it will be a benefit to the city. I also hope that with the passage of the parking item - we will have a safer community and more orderly transportation grid.
Finally, I want to say thank you for being patient this past month. I have been out of town often due to Air National Guard business and I will be out of town for two weeks this month - however, I should be home for good after the 29th.
