MONROE - Mayor-elect Robert Clark believes Monroe will need to continue the course of fiscal responsibility to get the city through the tough economic times.
Monroe's future mayor also believes residents are entitled to receive essential services they have gotten used to and that the city should strive to improve its streets, sewers, and other infrastructure.
Between now and Jan. 4, when Mr. Clark will be sworn into office, he plans to meet with incumbent council members, the two new precinct councilmen, and the city manager.
The focus of the meetings will be to discuss priorities for the coming year.
"I hope to have work sessions with all of the council regarding the goals and objectives that we put in place two years ago," said Mr. Clark, who captured a narrow victory in last week's election over political newcomer James Kansier.
Mr. Clark, a major with Michigan State Police, was elected to council two years ago. It was his first foray into elected office. Only 28 votes separated him from Mr. Kansier, a retired city firefighter, after ballots were tallied.
After reviewing the city's progress on the goals and objectives, Mr. Clark plans to evaluate where the city is at and what other improvements can be made.
"I think we need to critically evaluate what we have accomplished, where we have fallen short on these goals, and what other priorities we need to set as we move forward," he said.
Also taking office on Jan. 4 will be fellow newcomers Chris Bica, the owner of downtown bars and restaurants, and Jeffery Hensley, who will succeed Mr. Clark as the representative for Precinct 1.
They will join returning incumbents Jeremy Molenda, Mary Conner, Ed Paisley, and Brian Beneteau.
"I look forward to the addition of Jeff and Chris to council. They bring not only their experience they have from their jobs but also their involvement in the community. I think they will be assets," Mr. Clark said.
Mr. Clark said he will keep his campaign promise to retire from the agency in January, capping a 30-year career with the state police.
"Because Monroe has a city manager form of government, the mayor's position is considered part time. But I believe it needs a full-time commitment," he said. Permanent Link
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