City officials set dates to meet the public
By Kathy McCarty
Staff Writer
PRESQUE ISLE — City Councilors have announced an upcoming “listening tour” which is designed to give the public the opportunity to meet and discuss issues of concern with elected officials.
Considering the many important and consequential decisions to be made for the 2014 city budget, councilors are looking forward to discussing many of the budget items citizens may have concerns with.
Listening tours are designed to create an open, comfortable setting in which the City Council can receive feedback from citizens and gain a better understanding of resident expectations of services provided by the city of Presque Isle.
Councilors will meet with interested individuals at various public venues in coming weeks, much as City Manager Jim Bennett has held sessions at local eateries in the past to meet and discuss topics of interest with area residents.
With looming difficulties presenting themselves in the upcoming budget due to state revenue cuts, it’s a chance for residents to give some insight as to the direction they would like to see Presque Isle grow.
Edward Wright, owner of Star City Coffee, said, “We are very pleased to be able to host City Council for this type of event; we hope a lot of people will take advantage of this opportunity.”
Star City Coffee will be hosting the only morning tour on the scheduled, slated for Saturday, Sept. 28, at 7:30 a.m. on Main Street.
All community stakeholders are welcome to attend and participate in productive, meaningful discussion in preparation for the 2014 budget process to commence in October of this year.
Council Chair Emily Smith said, “This is an excellent opportunity for the Council to listen to Presque Isle residents’ suggestions, comments and concerns. The schedule and locations are designed to maximize accessibility for all residents to sit down face to face with their elected officials. The Council and I are looking forward to spending time with neighbors discussing how we can best serve the community.”
The events are slated to take place at several local restaurants.
“We’d be happy to have you; thank you for choosing Bonanza,” said George Harris, the restaurant’s general manager. Council will meet Monday, Sept. 16, at 5:30 p.m. at Bonanza Steakhouse on Main Street.
Sonny Gustin, office manager of the Irish Setter Pub, also expressed support, stating, “We’re very happy City Council is doing this.” Councilors have set Monday, Sept. 9, at 5:30 p.m. as the date and time to meet the public at the Irish Setter Pub on Main Street.
