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Mayor responds to City survey
There was a wide array of opinion and suggestions, but the largest number of comments dealt with four areas. The greatest concern expressed in the majority of questionnaires dealt with city personnel and level of services. Following that was the issue of taxes and water rates. Third in priority was job growth, and the need for more retail development such as restaurants, clothing stores and entertainment opportunities. The last issue was concern over the incidents of crime in Swainsboro. One of the most disappointing comments I read was one person's belief that nobody really cares or is trying to do anything about our problems. I can understand the frustration in that statement, but I assure you that there are many, many people in this City, both in and out of government, who are working hard every day looking for ways to move Swainsboro ahead, and address these problems. Just like any small rural town, we face formidable challenges. The changes we want in city government, in quality of life and job opportunities can never happen fast enough. But you can be sure that this city government is keenly aware of what is needed, and while progress may not be as fast as we want, it is nevertheless being made. We do care about the problems and concerns of the seven thousand people who live here, and that is the reason this survey was distributed. We can do better, and I am glad that we have had the input of this survey to help refocus our energies. One person ended with the comment, "I don't know how to help my City." My reply would be to simply "participate." Whether that means running for elected office, investing in a business, volunteering to help in community activities, picking up litter, organizing a neighborhood crime watch, or just helping a neighbor, there is something everyone can do to make this City stronger. Recycle your cardboard and plastic. Join our local Chamber of Commerce. This organization in the past year has worked with the City and the Development Authority to locate three new commercial employers in Swainsboro. The city, county and Chamber are all working together to revitalize the Pine Tree Festival for 2008. It is a big job and volunteers are needed. Our city recreation department received high marks in the city survey, and they are always in need of volunteers for their various programs. If you are ready to help, just let me know. One statement that appeared again and again in the survey was in response to the question, "What do you like most about Swainsboro?" By a wide majority, the answer was the warmth and friendliness of the people. City government cannot claim credit for that, but I think we can all be proud that people feel that way about our hometown. Finally, the last question on the survey asked for one idea to make Swainsboro a better city. One lady suggested hanging a sign with the Golden Rule right above the front door of City Hall. I like that. In closing, I would say that our biggest job is just to keep up the fight. One questionnaire that was sent in was signed by a discouraged father who won't give up on finding a job to support his family. Another was filled out by the devastated mother of a child lost to drugs. Because of these determined parents and many more like them, we must continue working everyday to make this a better city. Thank you for the privilege of serving as Mayor. I hope the blessings of this wonderful season surround you and your family. If I or anyone at City Hall can be of help to you, please let me know. Have a safe, joyful, and very Merry Christmas.
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