Story posted Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Mayor To Take Podium For Annual 'State Of City' Next Wednesday
Park Ridge Mayor Dave Schmidt plans to address three primary topics during his State of the City Address on Wednesday, Feb. 3.
"The three major topics are the budget, the flood control, and O'Hare," he said. "I will also touch upon improving city services."
Schmidt added there are additional issues he'd like to talk about, but added, "I don't plan on making this a two-hour speech."
Schmidt feels the address is an important means to update the citizens. "I think it should be an annual event to bring the residents up to date on what's been transpiring in the city government," he said.
He also feels the address can help frame the debate of issues among aldermen.
"It's designed both to inform the residents and also to stimulate thoughtful discussion among the members of the city council."
Schmidt has been pushing for a change in city ordinance to demand a balanced budget. He wants to inform citizens of the status of that effort as well as letting them know the progress by the Flood Control Task Force.
Regarding O'Hare Airport, Schmidt hopes to make the noise and pollution campaign issues in the U.S. congressional race in the 8th District. "It'll be a close election between congressman (Mark) Kirk and whoever the Democrats nominate," he said. Schmidt feels the suburbs will be the swing vote in that race. "That gives us much more leverage than we have ever enjoyed in the congressional races," he said. "Let's try to use that leverage.
Schmidt added that he might post a written version of his speech on the city's Web site. The address will also be posted online along with videos of the council meetings and other commission meetings at www.parkridgemayor.com.
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