January 4, 2013
First, let me thank the citizens for their confidence and support this
last election cycle. I am humbled and honored by the trust you have placed in
me. The New Year brings both several opportunities as well as challenges for
both Mantorville and Minnesota. I look forward to leveraging my problem solving
skills and the combined skills of each of our city council members to meet the
challenges and take advantage of the opportunities.
The city has been presented several challenges by the Minnesota Legislature,
with the elimination of the Market Value Credit and the continued reduced
levels of LGA(Local Government Aid). The council will need to continue
addressing these challenges by means of cost saving and spending reduction.
The city staff, council members and myself welcome your ideas and
suggestion and encourage each of you to bring your comments, concerns and ideas
to us individually or at a city council meeting which are held every second and
fourth Monday of the month starting at 6:30 pm at city hall.
What do you see as the most pressing issues/needs for 2013?
The new city council will have to focus on the wastewater treatment
plant during 2013 while continuing to meet the needs of the city including
setting responsible taxation policy. In the New Year the city council will need
to make a decision on upgrading our existing plant, building a new plant or
working on a joint venture with the city of Kasson. This decision will need to
focus on the financial impact for the citizens of Mantorville, the impact for
the future of Mantorville and regulatory constraints enacted by the State
Legislature.
Any big/special projects coming up this year?
The city recently received notice that Mantorville will receive a
portion of the Rochester Sales tax and this will be available in 2013 in two
distributions. These funds will need to be spent on legitimate Economic
Development activity. The Mantorville EDA(Economic Development Authority) will
need to examine the needs the city has in the area of economic development,
plan projects that will promote economic vitality and promote Mantorville as a
destination.
What would you like to see happen?
The city will need to strengthen it’s efforts to attract new business’
that complement the nature and character of the city. These efforts must take
into consideration providing a conducive business environment, and working with
the business community to remove barriers to their growth and success. Along
with promoting business opportunities the city will need to look for new
opportunities to promote education and tourism. The city council will need to
continue to promote the historic nature of the city, while planning and
promoting growth throughout the city.
Do you feel the city is going in the right direction?
The past councils have made sound decisions on controlling spending,
however and more aggressive approach needs to be examined for controlling tax
growth, limiting the breadth of government’s reach and providing for individuals
freedoms.
Any other comments/concerns?
Mantorville already has a rich volunteer
base; however, I would encourage citizens and families to get involved or to
take an active role in supporting our community. Just a few of the ways to get
involved are: adopt a park program, several advisory committees, volunteer
groups and local events such marigold days throughout the year.
Thank you again for your confidence and I
look forward to working with each of you to continue making Mantorville the
outstanding Minnesota community it is.
I would also like to thank Mayor Nash for
his dedication and service to the community of Mantorville as well as for his
assistance during the transition and I look forward to his continued
involvement.
