Montgomery Mayor Stephen Reed knows “what the headlines are saying” about the nation's capital, he told the audience at his State of the State address Tuesday night.
“I hear the same noises you do at night,” Reid said.
But Reed said Montgomery's fight against gun violence doesn't tell the whole story of the city, highlighting what Montgomery accomplished during his administration.
One of the city's recently completed major projects is a new artificial whitewater facility.
“A world-class, Olympic-standard recirculating whitewater flume is now open,” Reid said. “In the months since then, thousands of rafters, kayakers, enthusiasts, and beginners have taken to the course. We have hosted several concerts and festivals, and just a few months later, we will be hosting the 2024 Canoe Tour.” The Olympic team trials for slalom and kayak cross will be held.”
Mr. Reed also touted the city's readiness for economic development.
“When I talk to economic development site selectors across the country, the first question out of their mouths is, 'What is your site?' What they are looking for is what you offer us. It’s about can we do it,” Reed said. “Our answer is simple. We are the only top-tier, off-the-shelf 'gold-level' development site in the country. This certification means you can hire better, expand your tax base better, and grow your existing business better. ”
Reed highlighted the renovation and reopening of the McIntyre Community Center and said work is underway to update the Crump Center and Sheridan Heights Center. Plans are moving forward for a new Kalmar Drive community centre.
“I've heard a lot of people ask why we put so much emphasis on community centers. Tell us why,” Reed said. “I was recently introduced to a fifth grader named Ladarius. Ladarius is one of six boys in his family, all under the age of 16. His two older brothers have been in trouble. or running away from trouble. They are expelled from school. Sent to an alternative school. You name it.
“Instead of following in their footsteps, LaDarius goes to McIntyre after school. He plays in a basketball league. He gets help with his homework. There he receives instruction, support. And positivity. Today, LaDarius is an A/B honor roll student and regularly tells the McIntyre staff that because of them, he knows someone cares about him.”
Reed later said these types of options are critical to curbing the city's gun violence problem by creating opportunities for young people.
“Yes, in Montgomery, if you commit a crime, especially a violent crime, we will find you. We will prosecute you. There is a price to pay,” Reed said. “But what if, instead, we could provide better career counseling and skills training when the person was still in high school? Offering more apprenticeship opportunities and a pathway to qualifications in the workplace?” Will they have the chance to earn not just a living wage, but a prosperous wage?
“What if instead, when that person was still in middle school, you could provide him with an inspirational mentor? Did you protect him? And set an example that he would want to emulate.”
“So what if instead we helped him learn to read while he was still in elementary school or younger?” Instead of giving him a ball, we gave him a book. I gave it. So what will our community look like?”
As part of his criminal justice reform platform, Reed said he wants to waive municipal fines and fees that have been unpaid for more than 10 years, including unpaid traffic tickets and second-degree possession of marijuana.
Reed also touched on a number of other topics, including improving recreation, supporting military families and improving schools.
