Mayor White outlines accomplishments, agenda for 2007

Before you try to tackle President Bush and the state of the whole country tonight, you can read Mayor White's state of the city address, delivered yesterday afternoon at a Greater Houston Partnership luncheon. White, a popular and effective mayor, discussed the achievements of the city in the past year as well as goals and programs he sees for Houston's future.

Among other things, Bill White mentioned the success of his Safe Clear program in reducing traffic incidents, improvements in parks, libraries, and neighborhood drainage, as well as the controversial smoking ban. He also touched on Discovery Green, soon to be Houston's newest park, and the drop in violent crime that the city saw in the last year.

As far as things to come are concerned, the mayor pushed his plans to aid historical preservation (eh? eh?), reduce billboards, and keep kids in school. The address hinged on Mayor White's insistence that energy efficiency should be among the city's primary goals. He mentioned the weatherization project in low-income neighborhoods, which he's looking to expand. He also indicated that he wanted to work with businesses to form a five-year plan to reduce energy costs and use. The outlook one of our favorite projects, citywide wi-fi, is bright; the city plans to recommend a vendor this month and have the project completely finished in the next two years.

Lastly, Big Bill encouraged citizens to reach out to volunteer and nonprofit organizations and to embrace diversity in the city. Overall, it sounds like Houston's alive and well. Tip of the hat to you, Mayor White.