Mayor's Corner
State of the City
Kentucky Statute requires that mayors of all cities in the Commonwealth of Kentucky annually report the "state of their city". While we have certainly done so over these past years in our annual audit and other financial reports presented by the city, I am happy to do so in greater detail in this letter.
First of all, as demonstrated in the afore-mentioned annual audit of our city's books, Villa Hills spent some $122,000 less than we had originally budgeted for fiscal year 2005/2006. This significant surplus is a result of the fiscal restraint always demonstrated by the department heads and elected officials of the city. While the city continues to provide excellent police and fire protection, a sound program for the maintenance of city streets and other infrastructure and a balance of city recreational programs for residents of all ages, city government keeps a watchful eye on the expenditure of your hard-earned investment in your city. We are also committed to keeping our tax-rate low. I am extremely proud of our fiscal stewardship. And, I hope for similar positive results in the current fiscal year.
2006 saw a continued growing co-operation between Villa Hills and its neighboring cities in the providing of services to its residents. Some examples are the continuing and highly successful contract with the City of Erlanger to provide Advanced Life Support Services and our work with Crescent Springs to continually improve fire and police protection and sharing the cost of recreation opportunities. Look for these efforts to not only continue but to accelerate. There are many innovative ideas being discussed and seriously considered. We can further maximize the use of your tax dollars with these regional efforts while still maintaining the individual personalities of our cities.
The City also continues to work with other organizations and sponsors to put on several events throughout the year that provide recreational and entertainment opportunities and build civic pride. I am very proud of our very well-attended Florence Freedom Nights, Halloween Haunted Trail, Christmas Open House and the Concerts In the Park put on in partnership with the City of Crescent Springs. The City is also happy to work with the Civic Club on The Easter Egg Hunt, The Fishing Derby, The Senior Bingo and Fire In The Hills. It is important for you to know that much of the cost of all these events is underwritten through the solicitation of donations. Look for a fun celebration of the city's 45
2006 was an election year. After sorting through the blue-smoke and mirrors of a campaign season complete with some high-energy surprises, the solid majority of voters chose to continue the path that we have been on since March, 2001. I look forward to working with the council to provide the best we can offer in one of the most family-friendly cities in our Commonwealth. If you have any issues you would to discuss, please contact me at the city building at 341-1515 or e-mail me at Mikesadouskas@aol.com.