Speak Up Newport
A Speech by Leslie Daigle on September 8, 2010
Thank you, and thank you Speak Up Newport for your long, distinguished history of thoughtful and measured discussion of the most important public policy issues facing Newport Beach.
Your members are interested, involved and committed to better public awareness and understanding. You deserve our respect and appreciation, and you have mine. (pause)
I welcome tonight’s discussion, and expect that my three-minute opening will prompt questions, which I invite.
We cannot ignore that this election takes place at a time of pervasive economic uncertainty that threatens our traditional sense of wellbeing.
Even in relatively affluent Newport Beach, many people are hurting…are frightened….are worried and uncertain about the future. They are uncomfortable with “change” they never anticipated…and they are upset.
Our city government is not immune to the negative consequences of this, and has taken significant steps to adjust our municipal priorities and spending to reflect this fact.
Our emphasis is built on four pillars:
- First, we are encouraging economic growth and vitality, as well as high quality and appropriate redevelopment where it makes sense. (pause) I’d like to see a community pulling together – not apart -- to survive and then once again thrive. We should start with a vigorous determination to eat, drink, shop and play in Newport Beach – and give our small business risk takers a lift. I will stay focused on how we can give new lift to the Miracle Mile, and to Lido Village and the commercial areas around it.
- Second, we have imposed significant fiscal restraint at City Hall: We’ve reduced our workforce, cut our overall general fund budget, held down salary increases, and required a larger contribution by employees to their pension funds.
- Third, we believe that safety and security is paramount. Significantly, we have maintained our traditional high levels of police, fire, and paramedic service and response times.
- And, fourth, we have been vigilant stewards of our special natural gifts that are essential parts of our special quality of life. The water of our beaches and bays are critical to our community’s environmental health, our economic health and our recreational vitality. Keeping these waters clean and navigable has been one of my highest priorities and missions – with considerable success. I also have been deeply involved in the effort to enforce and extend the airport flight restriction agreement to minimize the impact of flights on our communities.
While we are living through difficult times, we also are a community of accomplished and optimistic achievers who love our special place on this planet, and are determined to keep it beautiful and healthy. The reopening of the OASIS senior center next month is a vivid reminder of our community spirit on full display.
I am honored to represent you on your City Council. It has been a high privilege. And I hope I have earned your trust and confidence for a second term.
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