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| From the Mayor's Desk by Mayor Craig Kolb |
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The year 2001 will certainly remain a vivid memory in the minds of every U.S. citizen. On September 11th the country endured catastrophic damages to two symbols of hope, freedom, and prosperity: the World Trade Centers and the Pentagon. Americans across the country, however, have shown that a symbol can be destroyed and rebuilt, but the foundations of truth and justice upon which this country was based cannot be displaced or tarnished. As we grieve for the victims and their loved ones, let us be grateful for the many blessings in our lives. In June our local area endured flash floods, which damaged over twenty-six residential homes within the City of Milford. We also lost a police cruiser and five sections of sewer line during the event. The sewer line was immediately repaired, and the vehicle will be replaced next year. We are currently waiting to hear from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) regarding compensation and mitigation funds available to us. I have been told that some residents are confused about City Council proceedings. I think it is important that during this period of nationwide mistrust and hesitancy all residents understand how their local government works. All committee and Council meetings are open to the public, and Council meetings are aired on Cable Channel 17. The Ohio "Sunshine Law" and the City Charter govern public record and notice requirements. From time to time Council may adjourn to an "Executive Session", which is a meeting closed to the public. No legislative decisions can be made during these special sessions, but certain personnel, legal, and real estate matters are appropriate for confidential discussion. Establishing the budget is one of Council's primary responsibilities. By March 31 of 2002, Council must adopt appropriations for the year. By law the City cannot overspend appropriations and must stay within estimated resources. Appropriations are "permission to spend", and early in the year we budget our resources very conservatively. As funds become available later in the year, new projects may be added or budgets may require adjustment due to unexpected expenditures, such as those caused by the flood. Appropriation changes require the full approval of City Council by ordinance. It is this conservative fiscal approach that earned us an A2 bond rating in the year 2000. The days since September 11th have not only been a time of solemnity and contemplation, but it is also a time of pride and patriotism. It is important for all of us to participate in the governmental process at all levels. Our Council-meeting schedule is printed on the back of this newsletter. If you have a question regarding a committee meeting date and time or would like to add an item to the agenda, please call City Hall at 831-4192. May the spirit of the season grant you and your loved ones a peaceful holiday. We all have much to be thankful for.
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| 2001 Election Results | |||||||
Re-elected to City Council:
Candidates elected for the MVESD Board of Education include:
Other issues on the ballot:
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