Ford's vision for Toledo

2/22/2002

Here are some of the highlights of Mayor Ford's State of the City speech:

BUDGET

"Poorly scripted" downtown residential deals contributed to a $16 million deficit.

City departments to be restructured to save money; no specific cuts cited.

No layoffs of police or firefighters. New class promised.

SAFETY

Zero tolerance of litter, abandoned property, graffiti, and broken streetlights.

Police substation for East Toledo.

Revitalize Toledo Block Watch program.

Aggressive pursuit of criminals, repeat offenders.

Reimbursement from U.S. Department of Homeland Security for terrorism-related costs.

INFRASTRUCTURE

New program to track repairs needed in alleys, curbs, and sidewalks.

Renewed commitment to basic services.

Promote affordable neighborhood housing by partnering with community development corporations.

Offer incentives to small and medium-sized businesses to locate in Toledo.

Creation of a multimillion-dollar venture capital fund to attract technology industries.

Convene a technology summit in April.

Visit 500 businesses a year to determine needs.

EDUCATION

Ask citizens to tutor children a half-hour weekly.

Call for unidentified "major reforms" by Toledo Public Schools.

Endorse a November school levy to provide a 23-percent match of $600 million state aid for school construction.

YOUTH PROGRAMS

Loans to help youths start their own businesses.

3:30-6:30 p.m. "Mayor's Time" during which children can safely enjoy reading, recreation, and remediation.

HEALTH CARE

Work with ProMedica and Mercy Health Systems to meet needs of 44,000 city residents without health care.

Promote fitness by joining children for weekly walk in a Toledo park.

MARINA DISTRICT

Emphasize support for $175 million arena, marina, and commercial complex on east side of Maumee River.