This is an important day for London as Council members will make their final decisions and come to an agreement on the budget numbers for 2012.
Council has worked diligently and cooperatively for the past several months to ensure Londoner’s tax dollars are spent wisely. The decisions required to achieve a workable budget and to ensure value for every dollar are not easy ones to make and require careful consideration. The process is long because there must be a thorough review of City spending and projections for future needs. Council has deliberated, debated and have sought guidance from staff and advice from engaged citizens.
This evening Council will complete its task and set the CITY BUDGET for 2012.
Although our economy, in fact, the global economy remains challenging, Londoners will continue to move forward and look for new ways to encourage growth and prosperity in our city. We will work together.
I want to thank Members of Council, City staff and Londoners for their efforts and input during the budget process.
I am looking forward to the challenges and innovation London will see in 2012. This will be an exciting and productive year.
When one of us succeeds we all benefit. This is a message that I have carried to Londoners for the past two years and, indeed, prior to that in my campaign. In order for our city to be the best it can be we have to work together to promote what makes us great – what sets us apart – we need to shine our own light. This was a message echoed by those who gathered for the Mayor’s Economic Prosperity Council. The group identified the need to break down silos and share. It urged Londoners to collectively promote and educate across sectors and work cooperatively for a greater good – for the benefit of all Londoners.