Atlanta is ‘Strong and Stable,’ More Work Ahead (Franklin: crime, neighborhood)

[Derrick_TheRiskTaker]

Atlanta is ‘Strong and Stable,’ More Work Ahead
Here's the link to the video: http://www.atlantaga.gov/citychannel...nd_060305.aspx

During today’s (YESTERDAY 01/09/07) annual State of the City Business Breakfast, Mayor Shirley Franklin said that Atlanta is “strong and stable” due to consistently balanced budgets, strict ethics guidelines and efficient and effective systems that foster good government.

But we cannot afford to stop now, urged Mayor Franklin. Keeping a critical and thoughtful eye on the city’s future is the key to creating the Atlanta of our dreams.

“Serious consideration of Atlanta’s future requires serious and thoughtful financial thinking today,” said Mayor Franklin. “City government can’t do it alone - it will take all of us working together.”

Mayor Franklin encouraged the community of Atlanta to continue its support of three long-term City programs.

The 24/7 Gateway Center. The Center serves hundreds of men, women and children each day, connecting them with services that provide those in need a hand up, not a handout.


The BeltLine. On Thursday, the City will launch a $60 million philanthropic BeltLine Capital campaign to continue this project. Every dollar counts.


The Center for Civil and Human Rights. This center along with the King Center will tell the story of Atlanta and the many men and women who dedicated their lives that we might live in a fairer and just world.
Said Mayor Franklin: “I imagine the Atlanta of 2040 to be unparalleled among U.S. cities with superior police and fire protection, excellent schools, clean water, and better transportation solutions. I imagine a city that has more parks and green space; a community where no one is homeless, and where the people who work in the city can afford to live in the city. I imagine an Atlanta that is a global destination for people who seek to better understand – and advance – human ideals and human rights. Together we can build a foundation for an Atlanta beyond our imagination.”


I am curious as to the accuracy of Mayor Franklin's assertions during the business meeting. Any thought? I noticed she also mentioned during the speech that crime has been reduced.

[backfist]

One thing I'll say for Atlanta than can't be said about many, many other cities: there's plenty of work for those who are ready, willing and able.

But are we job takers or job providers?

[Figment 07]

"I imagine a city that has more parks and green space..."

Yes, so do I. I love Atlanta, but I'd love it more if there were more parks.

I can't tell you how many people ask me, "Where are the neighborhood parks? Where can I go to walk or just sit under a tree and read a book without driving half an hour to get there?"

We need more sidewalks, more bike paths; more recreational and passive-use park space should have been purchased (or donated) and set aside long ago for the quality of life one would expect in a city this large, spread out and prosperous.

[Derrick_TheRiskTaker]

Originally Posted by backfist

One thing I'll say for Atlanta than can't be said about many, many other cities: there's plenty of work for those who are ready, willing and able.

But are we job takers or job providers?

Great point. Maybe that could be a way to improve and assist the mayor with her "USS Atlanta" story.