By Khalida Sarwari
San Jose Mayor Chuck Reed delivered the 2010 State of the City address this morning, focusing on rebuilding the economy, creating jobs, closing the budget cut and improving public safety.
Addressing hundreds at the McEnery Convention Center, Reed began the speech by proposing solutions to meet the city’s $100 million dollar deficit.
“The biggest challenge we face is balancing our budget in the wake of the worst recession since the Great Depression, in a time when we must compete with the world for private sector investment, and in a state where the Legislature eats local revenues faster than Joey Chestnut eats hot dogs,” Reed said.
He called on employee unions and city administration to work together to reduce employee costs, stating that a 5 percent reduction in the average cost per employee negotiated by the city manager in November was insufficient.
“We need every bargaining unit to give back 10 to 15 percent to avoid layoffs,” Reed said. “It’s time for everyone to share the pain to save the jobs of your friends and co-workers.”
Above all, Reed said economic development is the ticket to increasing revenues.
“San Jose is the capital of Silicon Valley, the world’s center of innovation. Our driving industry companies will continue to create jobs and invest in innovation, facilities, and equipment. The question is: Will they do it in San Jose?” Reed said.
To remain competitive in the global marketplace, Reed encouraged political, business, and community leaders to show support to driving industry companies, work at the speed of business, direct redevelopment funds toward generating revenue and jobs, ensure that federal and state regulations are not a barrier to job creation and innovation, and continue to attract and retain creative, talented, and entrepreneurial people.
Reed also commended the San Jose Police Department and Santa Clara County District Attorney’s Office for their efforts in reducing the number of homicides and tackling gang violence.
“Preventing crimes, solving crimes, and getting violent criminals off our streets are community efforts,” he said. “The men and women in our Police Department deserve our support and gratitude for the work they do everyday.”
Closing his speech, Reed asked residents to join him in making a pledge for the future of San Jose.
“I pledge to leave for our children and our grandchildren a city that is a beacon of peace and prosperity that demonstrates to the world what happens when people from around the world come together and focus on what they have in common,” Reed said. “I know this is a bold pledge to make in these tough times, especially as we cope with challenges that may appear to be overwhelming, but … the children of San Jose deserve no less.”
Reed was introduced by Oakland Athletics owner Lew Wolff, who has expressed interest in moving the team to San Jose, although he did not discuss the matter this morning.
During his speech, however, Reed said he predicts the proposal will receive voter approval.
The environmental impact report for the proposed baseball stadium in San Jose has been completed and is now in the midst of a 45-day public review period. Major League Baseball Commissioner Bud Selig has formed a committee to study the team’s future. Reed spokeswoman Michelle McGurk said Selig is expected to meet with Wolff in the next few weeks.