Dear Friends,

The month of January was active and full of developments at City Hall. I am writing to bring you up to date on various matters and to invite your thoughts and ideas about the future of our city.


Putting Our Financial House in Order

The challenges of financial reporting that have plagued our city for the last few years have been center stage at City Hall in recent months. As many of you are aware, our city has been unable to produce monthly financial reports since 2005, and it is not surprising that it was unable to close the 2005-06 and the 2006-07 financial books on time. Read more on Belinda's web site.

Economic Challenges to Our City and Our Nation

Our financial issues and steps necessary to resolve them have surfaced in an especially troubling time in the history of our city and our nation as we experience unprecedented economic conditions. It is ironic that at the moment our municipal government is finally putting its financial house back in order, we are confronted with unemployment at record levels, state government lay-offs and furloughs, business closings, and mounting foreclosures. Now, let me be clear: I know our city will weather this storm and emerge stronger, as a vibrant 21st century city. Read more on Belinda's web site.

The National Search for A New City Manager

As you no doubt are aware, City Manager Charles Austin recently announced his retirement effective at the end of March. Senior Assistant City Manager Steve Gantt has been appointed Interim City Manager and already is reviewing the City's present financial condition. Read more on Belinda's web site.

Join Me This Thursday at the "State of the City" Address

The annual "State of the City" address will be this Thursday, February 5th at 6:00 pm at the Columbia Convention and Visitor's Center in the Vista. Mayor Bob Coble will be presenting an analysis of where we now stand and announce plans for the coming year. A very modest reception will follow, and we will have an opportunity to talk about our city. I cannot tell you how important it is for you to share your thoughts and ideas with members of City Council! In the event you cannot attend and wish to communicate with me, you can always contact me.

Please know again how much I value your thoughts and ideas. As we move to warmer weather in the spring, I'll be walking in the neighborhoods and talking with residents face to face. I look forward to seeing you soon.

Sincerely,

Belinda Gergel
Columbia City Council, District 3 Representative

Read the complete newsletter at http://www.belindagergel.com/in_the_news/the-issues/91