State of Gaithersburg: 'Stong, Sustainable Community'

Gaithersburg Mayor Sidney Katz delivered the annual State of Gaithersburg address last week, calling the city "an innovator in environmental stewardship" and "a strong, sustainable community."

The addess was given at on April 19. 

Katz touched on several topics, including:

• Public Safety: "With recent hires, the Gaithersburg Police Department is almost fully staffed.  Fifty two of the authorized fifty four sworn officers are now in place.  The budget that is currently under consideration allows for three additional positions, recognizing the need for enhanced public safety as our community grows."
• Environment: " In 2011 we received certification in the Maryland Green Registry, and we are currently in the process of becoming certified under the stringent guidelines of the Sustainable Maryland program."
• Affordable Housing: "A newly formed ad hoc advisory committee is laying the groundwork for programs that will ensure the availability of affordable housing.  Just a few weeks ago we had the pleasure of participating in the groundbreaking for Maple Hill, a brand new Habitat for Humanity community bringing 19 homes to Gaithersburg."
• Technology: "A new online permitting system, the re-design of the City’s website, and newly enhanced functionality for viewing agenda materials and meeting videos are all in the works.  While we are chomping at the bit for these enhancements, we recognize that they are complex systems that take time to be done successfully."
• City Services: "Preserving and enhancing our neighborhoods is a never ending effort.  New playground equipment.  Safer crosswalks.  Infill street lighting.  Code enforcement.  Refurbished streets and sidewalks.  Animal control.  Wayfinding signage.  Public landscaping.  All of these impact our quality of life.  With a budget that allows us to breathe a bit easier, emphasis is being placed on restoring services to levels that we enjoyed prior to the recession."

A full copy of the speech is available on the city's website.