Mayor Rob Marlowe
I’m not sure where the summer went, but here we are with the Labor Day weekend already upon us. Labor Day was established to recognize the contributions and achievements of American workers. It is a good time to reflect on how American workers made this country great.
The city has been busy this summer. We’ve been hard at work on the budget for the fiscal year that starts October 1st. Once again, we’ve been able to trim back the millage rate. Our first budget hearing is scheduled for this coming Thursday at 6pm. We’ve been working on the budget for several months now.
A very wet August has delayed several projects, including paving projects and the completion of Main Street Landing. We should see all these come to pass as the weather starts drying out.
Not unusual for this time of year: We are watching the tropical weather reports. It is probably telling that my browser notices when I start a web address with “n” and suggests “nhc.noaa.gov”. The middle of September marks the peak of the Atlantic hurricane season and the National Hurricane Center is watching three other disturbances besides Dorian.
While it currently appears that Dorian will miss us, we’ve got our camp stove, staple foods, and a place to go for shelter all ready to go if things change. There is no need to panic. Simply use common sense and be prepared to move out if you are ordered to evacuate. As of 1:30am Labor Day morning or thereabouts, we have house guests. Our son and his family are camped out in the living room.
The city is hosting its second annual Drive Electric Week event on Saturday, September 14th. The event will be on Railroad Square from 10am to 1pm that day. Last year’s event had over 40 electric vehicles. Like last year, there will be an opportunity to talk to EV owners and take test drives, if you like. I hope you will be able to join us and see for yourself why EV owners are so happy their cars.
There are a slew of great free and low cost entertainment options this fall. A good place to start is with the Rec. Center’s facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/nprparksandrec/
There will be a free family movie this coming Saturday night in Sims Park.
The Richey Suncoast Theatre is doing some exciting things, such as this coming weekend’s “Carrie: The Musical”. I’m still trying to wrap my head around the idea of a musical horror show, but this would appear to be it. If you like horror movies and musicals, this might be right up your alley.
Thank you for your words of encouragement and support. Please be safe this week.
Rob Marlowe, Mayor