Looking Forward to 2009

As we end the year I start to think about our city in 2009. Our economy will be tested to the max this year. All nation wide statistics show we should be in for one rocky ride. However I believe we will come out of this so called recession with a few bumps and cuts, but moving in a positive direction nevertheless. Just a glance at our sales tax numbers show that the retail market in our city is struggling but not at a stand still or decline. The last two reports show a rise in rebate numbers. The new Rio Grande Shoppes and other businesses that opened up in 2008 have saved the 2008 fiscal year. The challenge will be to attract more stores and restaurants to our city to keep 2009 a productive year. Of course bringing in large employers will help make all of this happen. Our EEDC will play a big role in our sustainability.

On the city side we are running on a fat free budget this year. With very few new hires, and almost no new equipment to purchase we feel that the city is doing it's part to tighten our belts. That does not mean that there will be no projects to handle. Several large road projects are on tap for staging in January. Sugar, Jackson, and Canton road construction will take the lead. Our regular paving program will continue, with the neighborhood east of the Edinburg Stadium getting a face lift. One of my projects will be the Edinburg Casa Cultura (Arts Center). I will be posting more on this later this month. Along that line is an Arts District, this is one project I will also be working on. Sidewalk reconstruction, parks and city lighting will also be on tap. Improving our public safety sections will also be looked into. There is a lot more to report on, but I will do so as time allows. Feel free to ask any questions about meetings and agendas. As always I have no problem addressing the issues with facts.

Of course the cities elections will be taking center stage for the political factions. I will post on the elections as time draws near.