By Joey Chenoweth | Coolidge Examiner
Coolidge Mayor Tom Shope stood in front of the Elks Lodge April 16 and spoke with pride about some of the accomplishment he and the city council were able to have in recent years, while also bidding somewhat of a farewell to the city as their mayor.
In what was likely his final State of the City address, Shope outlined what city council and staff have achieved over the past year, some reflection over his time as mayor and some advice for the community going forward. Unlike addresses from larger entities like the governor and the president, this was not a time for future policy proposals but more of an education opportunity on what has already happened.
Shope began by stating what he believes is the purpose of city government, especially in a small municipality like Coolidge.