Committee Seeks Input on City Projects Funded by Bond Issue
The committee members boarded a bus on Thursday and toured different locations in the city, such as Princess Park, the Municipal Auditorium, and Hirsh Coliseum. They also saw the conditions of some of the city’s roads and bridges, which are in need of repair or improvement.
The bus tour was part of the committee’s process of reviewing and prioritizing the potential bond projects, which will be presented to the City Council and the Mayor for approval. The committee is composed of 16 citizens appointed by the Mayor and the Council, representing each district of the city.
The 2024 general bond issue is expected to raise about $220 million for various infrastructure, public safety, recreation, and economic development projects. The bond issue will not increase the property tax rate but will extend the current rate for another 30 years.
The committee hopes to finalize its recommendations by December and submit them to the City Council for consideration. The Council will then decide which projects to include in the bond proposition, which will be voted on by the citizens in April 2024.
The committee chair, John Smith, said that the bus tour was an informative and eye-opening experience for the members. He said that the committee is committed to finding the best solutions for the city’s needs and ensuring that the bond projects are beneficial for the community.
“We want to make sure that we are spending the taxpayers’ money wisely and efficiently, and that we are addressing the most critical and urgent issues facing our city,” Smith said. “We also want to make sure that the bond projects are aligned with the city’s vision and goals, and that they enhance the quality of life and economic opportunities for our citizens.”
