I also want to extend my best wishes and heartfelt appreciation to Mr. Mike Copp our Interim City Administrator. Mr. Copp understands the importance of getting the small things done while retaining focus and movement on the big projects. He showed me what an experienced and knowledgeable city administrator of a Colorado municipality can accomplish. His guidance regarding the duties and responsibilities of a city mayor beyond those stated in statutes and codes, has been tremendously helpful. Again, I wish Mr. Copp the best of luck in his future endeavors and hope he will have fond memories of his time in Salida.

The City of Salida is being faced with many challenges caused by the economic meltdown. I do believe that by working together we will weather the storm far better than if we create divisions amongst us. Salida remains an incredibly attractive area for tourism. I hope that our close proximity to the large population bases of the Front Range will enhance that draw. For that reason alone any improvements and additions to our recreational options will be a great benefit for the tourism industry and locals alike.

There is a large list of ongoing projects and issues with which the City of Salida is now dealing with. The range is large and includes huge construction projects such as the complete refurbishment of the Waste Water Treatment Plant to supporting trail building in the area of Tenderfoot Mountain to increase tourism and local use of that area. As our city grows and changes please offer your input and solutions to the City Council. It is the expression of your desires that shape the future of our fair city.

The untimely death of former mayor Danny Knight brings to mind the shortness of life. For me it is a reminder of how petty some of the disagreements that occur are and how needless the intensity of anger exhibited by all sides is. To disagree while respecting the opposing view is essential for a positive direction to be maintained. While Mr. Knight and I disagreed on several issues, he always treated me with respect and courtesy. I hope we can remember Danny Knight by following his example.