2007 LOVERIDGE STATE OF THE CITY ADDRESS

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Renaissance in Riverside Cities are more than names on a map. They are where we live, work, and raise families. They are where economic development takes place and where quality of life is framed. Robert Kennedy once wrote, "The City is not just housing and stores. It is not just education and employment, parks and theaters. It is a place where men should be able to live in dignity and security and harmony, where the great achievements of modern civilization...should be available to aiL" Cities however do not share the same success stories. We compete for business and residents, across this region, this country, and in the global market place. A recent Urban Land Institute magazine story concluded, "In a global world, cities have become more--not less--important. They really matter.... They are increasingly the 'wealth of nations.' Whether a city performs well or poorly is not its location or history, but rather the choices its leaders make. For global cities, quality decision making is important and quality of life is criticaL" This is a time of Renaissance in Riverside: a rebirth, a revival, a rise in new technology, a time of vigorous activity, of new enthusiasm and optimism. It is our time. Every important measure of success in evaluating cities is the best ever: sales tax--highest; building permits--highest; number of jobs--now over 165,000; real estate values--highest. Crime however is down, and notably so compared to other cities over 100,000. The Inland Empire has come of age. Population is now 4 million, heading to 6 million in 2025. The Inland Empire currently represents about half the population growth, job creation, and new housing in Southern California. The largest city with 300,000 people, Riverside leads the Inland Empire in almost every measure of economic power. Economic success translates into increased city revenues and therefore, increased policy choices for infrastructure and services. We currently have a reserve of $ 46 million in our City budget, perhaps the highest percentage reserve of any city over 100,000 in California. The community is not divided over major issues. At City Hall, the Council is largely together on major decisions. The City Manager has an effective team in place. And we practice shared governance, with a striking commitment to getting things done. Also important, the Chamber is a key partner in bringing business to the table. What took place at City Hall in 2006 represents the highest level of activity and accomplishments in Riverside's history. Buy a cup of coffee, read Riverside Monthly, and see why kudos are in order for making so many good things happen. 2