Mayor French Presides Over His First City Council Meeting

Mayor Doug French addressed Rye residents at the city council's first meeting of the year last night, telling a packed audience that a myriad of challenges—from fiscal to pedestrian safety issues—lie ahead for the city.

"Just as you, your family and those around you have been tested by today's tough economic times—in 2010 our government will be tested," French said.

French delivered his State of the City Address in front of a full crowd in the council chamber room. He and new council members Suzanna Keith, Richard Filippi and Peter Jovanovich were all sworn in on New Year's Day.

Their ticket campaigned on a platform of lower taxes, fiscal accountability and "change for Rye."

In lock step with that platform, French also addressed several fiscal issues during his speech, saying "voters have reached their absolute limit when it comes to taxes."

French has said continuously that fiscal responsibility will be a priority for the new city council. He took action in this vein at Wednesday night's meeting, calling on City Manager Frank Culross to begin preparing for the 2011 budget by identifying five percent in savings for the city. The city has already passed its 2010 budget, which French has said is risky because of its revenue forecasts.

He said the council's three priorities will be to establish clear lines of senior management accountability, empower the city's boards and commissions and encourage public participation through forums and other outlets that seek citizen input.

French also addressed flood mitigation. He called on new council member Richard Filippi to work with the city planner, planning and conservation commissions and flood action committee to deliver recommendations by April 16th, the three-year anniversary of the city's last flood.

He also said the city should begin working in concert with other municipalities, because of the county's impending $60 million deficit and the state's financial difficulties.

He said city government will need the public's help in overcoming the challenges Rye will face in the coming year.

"Now more than ever, we are in this together—once the debate is over, we need to pull together," French said.