Penn Gives ‘State Of City’ Address

FARMINGTON — Mayor Ernie Penn’s annual “State of the City” address included accomplishments in 2012 and goals for 2013.

Penn reported at the Feb. 12 City Council meeting that the city is financially sound.

It ended the year with $1.7 million in reserves and revenues from the 1-cent city sales tax and county sales tax were up by almost $70,000, compared to 2011.

The city reduced its debt on the sewer bond issue by $330,000 in 2012, and reduced the debt on the sports complex by $335,000.

The public work s department completed several major projects last year, including a drainage project at Garland McKee Road and Meadowsweet subdivision and chip and seal projects on North Appleby, South Appleby and Jimmy DeVault roads.

The department also worked on the sports park so that it could open on time for the 2012 ball season.

The sports complex completed its first year of operation. For 2012, 536 kids played summer ball and the complex was used to host seven tournaments.

The Farmington Public Library issued 292 new library cards last year and checked out 60,712 items. The library now has 3,224 patrons.

The police department received three grants in 2012 totaling more than $ 30,000. The fire department responded to a record number of calls last year and reduced its average response time.

For 2013, the city’s goals are to improve communication and establish a strong Economic Development Committee.

“The lifeline of our city is to continue to see growth in the residential and commercial sectors,” Penn said.

“We must strive to improve all our processes and to encourage growth within our city.”

Penn said the city will continue to work with the Farmington School District, Chamber of Commerce and civic groups to meet these goals.

Penn