Mayor Thomas Holds Town Hall Meeting Sewers and 2019 Proposed Budget

(Monday, November 5, 2018) — Tonight Mayor Thomas was joined by some of his staff; Police Comm. Shawn Harris, Planning Comm. Okarter, Deputy Fire Comm. Norman, Deputy Planning Comm. Molina, DPW Comm. Ederer and other important team members to speak on the urgent developments of Mount Vernon’s sewers and the proposed 2019 budget at Riverside Chapel in Mount Vernon.

The issues with our sewer system goes back as far as 2003. Mayor Thomas has presented a plan and a solution to make sure that we protect the taxpayers and also the environment. But every step taken to fix this, we faced obstructions and defiance from council members and the Comptroller. This is the reason why Mayor Thomas wants to show the public what is really going on and in spite of what Mount Vernon residents hear, the city gets a lot done.

There are many positive things happening in the city. To start, crime is down about 31%, property values have gone up to at least 10% and our economy is strong, one of the fastest growing economies in the state. Mount Vernon is also launching their first Restaurant Week starting this Friday, Nov. 9 and the Arts & Culture Master Plan, which will be released on Wednesday, Nov.14 at 7pm.

During the Mayor’s speech an audience member asked, “How can we help ourselves?” Mayor Thomas said “First thing is to vote. Mount Vernon residents need to be present and second, examine what was presented tonight and do your own fact finding to spread awareness to each other.” The Mayor really wants residents to get rid of the “he said, she said” business. It’s absurd. Start organizing neighborhoods to continue this conversation. We have a voice to stop all this and we must hold them accountable.

To see the full town hall meeting click here.