The City of Washington, Indiana

2020 STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS

Presented by Mayor David Rhoads

February 24, 2020

 

Good evening.  As I begin my State of the City address for the first time after taking office 55 days ago, I see many things happening within our community and will be addressing a few of them throughout my address.

 

As most everyone knows this administration has acquired two major projects. The first being the Business 50 Project. The project started with Phase I, the Eastside section which has already been completed.  This coming spring, Phase II, the Westside section of this project will get underway.  This portion will begin at S.W. 3^rd Street and proceed west and end near 900 W. National.

 

The next project that is also slated to begin in spring is the Wastewater Phosphorus Removal Project.  This has been mandated by the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM).  As part of this project the city will be allowed to construct a new wastewater facility building that will house a new laboratory and other administration offices, which have been needed for quite some time.

 

I will monitor these projects closely and see that they proceed as expected and will ensure that they are accomplished in as timely a manor as possible and all while keeping the best interest of the community and its’ citizens in mind.

 

There were several things that were accomplished throughout 2019, some within the city administration and others within our community.  Some of those being:

 

1. Indiana Safety Supply completed a large expansion to their existing facility.
2. The Animal Control Department completed an expansion by adding a covered outdoor kennel area on the eastside of their facility.
3. The City and County were awarded the 2019 Local Government Cooperation Award from the Association of Indiana Counties for the re-construction of the 15^th Street Bridge.
4. Evansville Teachers Credit Union was completed and opened for business.
5. Nasco Industries completed a 20,000 square foot warehouse expansion and are preparing for Phase II.
6. Goodwill Industries have completed renovation of the former Moose Lodge for their new warehouse and store and have opened for business.
7. The Economic Development Corporation received a $200,000 Regional Opportunities Initiative Grant for the Commons Project downtown area.
8. The City received a grant from the Office of Community and Rural Affairs (OCRA) for $700,000 for the Wastewater Phosphorus Removal Project and Sewer Facility Expansion.

 

There are a few projects as we move forward in 2020:

1. Construction of a new salt barn for the Street Department. This project has been budgeted and is very much needed.
2. Street paving and sidewalk projects will continue throughout the city.
3. Re-construction of the intersection of Highway 57 South and Meridian Street. This is an INDOT project and will give the citizens better access and a safer way of entering Highway 57.

 

So, as you see 2019 was a very busy year and a lot was accomplished throughout the community.  As we move into 2020 it is looking to be just as busy with many things already happening and the hopes of many more to come.

 

At this time, I would like to recognize my appointed administrative staff which includes my Executive Assistant and 13 Department Heads.

 

- My Executive Assistant, Debbie Neukam, who is now working for her 5^th Mayor.

- Fire Chief, Steven Walden

- Police Chief, Todd Church

- Utility Office Manager, Stacie Anderson

- Building Commissioner, Jon Casper

- Street Commissioner, Bryan Sergesketter

- Electric Superintendent, Randy Ennis

- Water Superintendent, Charlie Kane

- Wastewater/Stormwater Superintendent, Scott Rainey

- Parks Superintendent, Kip Kelley

- Animal Control Manager, Beth Trousdale

- I.T. Director, Mike Folsom

- Engineer Consultant, Ed Barnett

- City Attorney, Tim Dant

 

I could not go without also recognizing our Clerk-Treasurer, Beth McGookey as she plays a vital role in the financial operations of the city.

 

In closing I want to thank the citizens of Washington for having faith in me to lead this city forward and for giving me the opportunity and honor to serve as the 25^th Mayor of the City of Washington.

 

Thank you to our City Council and Board of Public Works & Safety members as well as all our city employees who serve this community well.  A big thank you goes out to my wife Darlene and all my family for their support now and throughout the years ahead.

 

I truly believe in our community and its future and if we continue to work united with the county and our citizens, our future is very bright.  Let’s all “Work for a better Washington”!

 

May God continue to bless the City of Washington, the State of Indiana, and the United States of America.

 

Thank you,

Mayor David Rhoads