Councilman Michael Nowakowski
Arizona Republic My Turn February 2009
With a heavy heart I acknowledge the city of Phoenix finds itself in the grip of an economic crisis that has hit our nation and rocked our world. This economic malaise could potentially last for several years, and it’s my elected responsibility to approve a balanced budget that meets the needs, wants and expectations of the community. It is undeniable that how we handle this crisis today will impact Phoenix for decades.
The department cuts forwarded to the City Council and Mayor are heartbreaking due to the impact it will have on our most vulnerable populations. The proposed cuts will impact the Phoenix Afterschool Centers (PAC), senior centers, community centers, Dial-A-Ride services, libraries, recreation for the disabled, Graffiti Busters, swim teams and pool Hours, arts programs/centers, and neighborhood preservation. It’s always been my belief that investing in our most vulnerable is the best and wisest investment we can make as a community. A youth in one of our community centers, swimming pools and or art centers learns teamwork, discipline and social skills and is less likely to commit crimes. A child participating in an after school program is one less child in danger of assault or experimenting with drugs. An unemployed resident using the library is one less person vulnerable to being homeless. A senior eating a nutritious meal and experiencing social interaction is less likely to suffer from depression. Bottom line, affordable community programs allow one to engage in productive and responsible living resulting in quality of life. As a parent, resident and councilmember I struggle with cutting such services.
There is no joy in taking action to lose irreplaceable staff members who have served our city with pride, not to mention losing valuable service. For this reason, I attended six community budget meetings. I heard testimony expressing that the community is our greatest resource during this crisis. You stated that you are willing to volunteer, pay higher fees, fundraise and even consider a temporary food tax. Your recommendations have been carefully noted and we, the Mayor, City Council, and City Manager’s Office will work diligently to accommodate your specific needs.
In addition, I will recommend that once this budget process is complete and voted on by the Council, that a citizen’s commission be convened to examine the city’s budget and set the priorities for inevitable future budget cuts. This commission would make recommendations throughout the budget year that reflect the needs, wants and expectations of our residents.
Lastly, but certainly not the least, I thank the citizens who attended the budget meetings to listen, learn and voice their opinions. This shows your love of community and the councilman from District 7 sincerely appreciates you. Your suggestions and stories have touched my heart and encouraged me to work harder, study longer and pray more compassionately. I believe that through hard work and sacrifice we will get through this budget crisis and we will remain the best city to live in.
Councilman Michael Nowakowski represents District 7. He can be reached at 602-262-7492 or at council.district.7@phoenix.gov.