In this episode of The Mayor’s Message, Mayor Joshua García dives deep to talk about the fundamental importance of community participation in how the city functions. To that end, later this year the Office of Planning and Economic Development in collaboration with the Planning Department, are spearheading a series of surveys, focus groups and community events across the city’s seven wards to gather information from residents and businesses on their priorities.

The mayor also spoke on public safety and will make a detailed announcement this Friday at 11 am at Holyoke Media. All are welcome to this public event.

Other topics covered in this conversation include the budget he will present to the City Council as part of his annual State of the City address.