THE CITY OF SPRINGFIELD, MASSACHUSETTS
MAYOR CHARLES V. RYAN
Dear Fellow Citizens of Springfield:
Two years ago, in July 2004, we were on the brink of legislation creating a Finance Control Board. The whole process was brand new – it had never before happened to Springfield and it was clear to all that the city government had, in essence, collapsed. It was hopelessly insolvent and reeling from the effects of indictments and scandals. The city streets and public buildings were in deplorable condition. Our people were discouraged and apprehensive. By September 2004, the deficit had been quantified at $41 million – a staggering sum!
It soon became evident that there was a mutual resolve on the part of the city administration and the newly created Finance Control Board to make the most of our one last opportunity to turn Springfield around. It meant the replacement of the majority of people in departmental leadership positions. It meant probing analysis, evaluation and one tough decision after another.
During the two years which have ensued since then we have made astonishing progress and have achieved a foot-hold in our quest for financial stability and responsible leadership. The details of this situation are spelled out succinctly in the accompanying message of Philip Puccia, the Executive Director of the Control Board. I refer you to it for a full exposition of the progress which has been made and the achievements which are inherent in this 2007 budget.
I wish to acknowledge the enormous contribution which has been made to our city’s recovery by Philip Puccia, David Panagore, and my colleagues on the Finance Control Board. Their talent, energy and commitment have been indispensable to the progress we have made. I wish also to express my gratitude to the city Department Heads and the many hardworking city employees whose wholehearted cooperation with this leadership has resulted in impressive improvements in the way city services are being provided. I hope that every one realizes that this budget is merely one more step on the way to total recovery. We’re not there yet. There will be more difficult decisions to be made if we are to succeed. The bottom line is – whereas two years ago there was a sense of despair and hopelessness – now, we are experiencing a new energy, a sense of confidence, and have a well thought-out blueprint for success which we will continue to implement in the years ahead.
I am grateful to you, my fellow citizens, for your support and assistance during these trying times. I assure you of my enduring pledge to serve you with the highest standards of dedication and integrity, with earnest faith in our ability to regain our rightful place among the communities of our great Commonwealth.
