by Mayor Jerry Holloway      


---- REVIEWING 2010 ----

As this year comes to a close and we take a look back at what we have accomplished as a City, I am very encouraged. Your City staff and City Council have worked very well together this year to keep this City moving forward. Some of the notable items in 2010:

  • Maintaining a very responsible and workable budget. Important city services were not removed. Some City positions were eliminated, (cost savings), without any reduction in service levels to the public.

  • Traffic safety around our schools was a focus, and was maintained.

  • The City Council took a position in support of several components of Arizona Senate Bill 1070, (Illegal immigration).

  • Summer camps and programs at the Bell Tower Community Center, were expanded and were highly attended.

  • Our Sphere of Influence was expanded to include Coto de Caza, Las Flores, Wagon Wheel and Stonecliffe. Annexation of those communities into the city of Rancho Santa Margarita was discussed and opposed by the City Council.

  • The Economic Development Committee expanded its outreach efforts regarding business development.

  • The City joined Orange County’s Alert OC to provide residents with time sensitive information in the event of an emergency.

  • The FBI released statistics showing our “safest city” designation for 2009.

  • Lastly, this year we received 1200 responses on the City website in regard to our survey questions, as posed in “Let Your Voice Be Heard”. Your responses were of great benefit in our decision making process.

  •  

    City Councilman Extraordinaire - Neil Blais

    Your City Council is losing two of its original members: Jim Thor and Neil Blais. Jim has deservedly been recognized for his many years of service. Neil is deserving of our recognition as well.

    Neil is one of six people who are responsible for the existence of the City of Rancho Santa Margarita. He has been working tirelessly for residents and businesses for well over 10 years. Two time mayor, (2004 and 2008), Chairman of the Orange County Fire Authority Board of Directors, the creator of the Economic Development Committee, a major influence in the development of City Hall and the Bell Tower Community Center, (created a non-profit foundation to aid the City in obtaining funding), member of the Trauma Intervention (TIP) Advisory Committee, as well as fifteen other past and current boards and committees.

    In 2006, Neil received the first “Commerce Award” from the South Orange County Regional Chamber of Commerce, for his efforts to improve the economic development climate in south Orange County.

    Specific accomplishments aside, Neil was an elected official who used all of his skills to create and improve our current way of life here in Rancho Santa Margarita. Neil, Destin and their son Nash have always been a huge part of this community and will no doubt continue in that role. The City Council will formally recognize Neil for his accomplishments and contributions, at a Council meeting in January.

    It has been an honor serving as your Mayor in 2010. Thank you.


    Visit: City of Rancho Santa Margarita Back to: Trabuco Canyon News
    Copyright: Trabuco Canyon News.  All Rights Reserved.