Pasadena mayor to deliver State of the City address

Candid but optimistic is how Pasadena Mayor Johnny Isbell is feeling as 2011 swings into full gear, and he will share this message to residents during his annual State of the City address, which is set for Thursday, Jan. 20.

"This year's State of the City message is one of hope tempered with realism," Isbell said.

"Our local employment picture is brighter than many communities, and a number of businesses have shown active interest in relocating to or expanding in Pasadena.

"There's reason to be cautiously optimistic, but we will continue to closely watch all city government expenses in 2011 to make sure any continued difficulty in the economy won't catch us unprepared."

The mayor's address is expected to last approximately 25 minutes, and will be broadcast on the city's municipal television channel a few days later, as well as posted on the City's official website — www.ci.pasadena.tx.us - and its Facebook page.

New year brings changes

For the first time, the full text of Isbell's speech will be available online, said Publications Manager Wayne D. Holt.

"We all know the economy is the bad news," Holt said, "but the mayor will also cover the positive news in Pasadena."

The year is off to a good start with the Jan. 14 ribbon cutting at the Multipurpose Center's 7,000-square foot universally accessible playground.

The project was made possible by a $100,000 donation from the Pasadena Rotary Club, $88,000 in Community Development Block Grant funds, and Pasadena Parks Improvement money.

About the mayor

Originally from San Antonio, Isbell began serving Pasadena as a city council member in 1969, mayor from 1981-1985, mayor for a second time from 1993-2001, and was elected mayor again in 2008.