By Joey Chenoweth | Coolidge Examiner
During the opening of his annual State of the City address on Feb. 20, Mayor Tom Shope was sure to contrast the content of his speech with that of Barack Obama’s slightly larger-scale speech that took place just eight days before.
“There is a world of difference between the federal government, and its lack of budget and its $16-trillion debt, compared to local cities and school districts,” Shope said. “Local government agencies annually present to our citizens with balanced budgets, spending only what we receive. This is being done in very difficult economic times. Perhaps this is why surveys have shown that citizens have more confidence in government that is closer to them.”
Shope, a Republican, spoke to the audience of Coolidge Chamber of Commerce members and other residents at the Florence-Coolidge Elks Lodge about the achievements the city has had despite financial struggle.
“The city of Coolidge progressed in many areas as a result of sound economic policies, high-quality essential services, strategic planning and an aggressive approach to attracting grants wherever they can be located,” Shope said. “The city and its leadership are committed to building a sustainable community and a high-performing organization for its residents. I am proud to report to the citizens of Coolidge the state of the accomplishments your mayor and council have accomplished this past year.”
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