A new course
Mayor’s speech to focus on the good to grow from a bad year
By André Coleman 01/21/2010
With a still-crippled economy, which has caused the closure of numerous local businesses, and with state cuts creating a $20 million deficit in the Pasadena Unified School District’s budget, how could Pasadena Mayor Bill Bogaard’s annual State of the City speech next week be anything but hopeful.
After all, where is there to go but up?
Although public school funding issues are of dire concern, and cuts at City Hall likely lie ahead in order to bridge an expected $11 million budget deficit by the end of the fiscal year in July, Bogaard will also emphasize some of the positive aspects in his review of the past year and forecast for the next 12 months.
“My remarks will be realistic in facing the challenges of the recession, but will point out a number of projects and proposals that will be actively pursued during 2010,” Bogaard told the Weekly. Some of those pursuits include developing the city’s General Plan, attracting businesses and addressing water and energy challenges. The speech, titled “Charting a New Course,” will be given Thursday, Jan. 28, at La Salle High School, 3880 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Pasadena.
“The tone is definitely hopeful as we emerge from the recession and move briskly to return the community to the pursuit of programs and projects that enhance the quality of life,” said the mayor.
The event kicks off with a reception at 6:30 p.m. At 7 p.m. Bogaard will be introduced by vice mayor and emcee Councilman Victor Gordo. The event also includes a video presentation of highlights of the past year and the reading of “Parade” by Pasadena poet Douglas Kearney. Colors will be presented by Pasadena’s Marine Corps Reserve Center Color Guard. Beverages will be served.
For more information, call (626) 744-4311.
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