SAVANNAH, Ga. -- The mayor of Savannah said the city is strong and growing stronger despite the continued recession.
Mayor Otis Johnson delivered his 7th State of the City address Wednesday night. The Savannah City Council and dozens of people gathered at the Savannah Civic Center for the mayor's speech.
Though the mayor highlighted several positive points, he also talked about the challenges he sees ahead for Savannah in 2010.
Johnson noted that Savannah has conquered the budgetary challenges facing cities around the country.
"We are very proud to stand here tonight to say that in the midst of this recession that we have been able to balance our last 2 budgets without making any cuts in personnel, no furlough days, no cuts in programs. That's extraordinary," said Johnson, as the audience applauded.
The mayor also noted that the city is focusing its efforts on some of the city's neglected neighborhoods, but he said they need help from the neighbors who live there.
"We need people to pick up the trash that they throw on the streets. We need people to fix up their homes when they can and ask for help when they can't. We need people to stop selling drugs to their neighbor's children," said the mayor.
He also set a goal for Savannah-Chatham Metro Police.
"I'm going to say this in the most positive way that I can. If Pooler {Police} can get accreditation, our Metro Police department can and must get re-accredited," he said.
Johnson also mentioned several priorities for the remaining two years of his term, including poverty reduction, reducing the school drop out rate, and promoting a healthier Savannah.
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