During the last two years, I have worked closely with Mayor Julian to improve the credit rating of the City. Recently we have been notified of upgrades by Moody's and Standard & Poors to investment grade. These upgrades will save Utica taxpayers significant monies over the next few years in interest costs.

Also we have successfully completed re-districting of the City Council. I served as Chairperson of the Committee that revamped our election districts to reflect new 2000 census data. The re-districting also gave us the opportunity to consolidate and eliminate 17 election districts and this will result in a $17,000 savings per year.

As a result of improved finances we were able to hold the line and not increase property taxes for the 2003-2004 City budget. We will continue to closely review City revenues and spending to ensure a balanced budget.