A Message from Mayor Wood
Greetings, Salida! I'd like to wish you and yours a Wonderful Holiday Season and a Happy New Year. 2020 has certainly had its challenges, but I'm eternally grateful for the community and the many ways we've come together to support each other and give back to those in need.
The City has worked closely with local, regional, state and federal partners to secure CARES Act funding for local businesses and non-profits. The financial impact of COVID-19 has been a challenge. Still, we've distributed $383,121 to organizations in need.
We've worked to take care of our community by distributing face coverings, free of charge, to residents. Additionally, we provided signage and safety messages for local businesses to display in their windows and bathrooms. As always, Salidans continue to take care of each other!
We closed two blocks of F Street, allowing local retailers and restaurants to expand their footprint into the street. Our local arts community stepped up and creatively designed road barriers to keep our new pedestrian area safe.
We got creative with events and continued to gather safely in small groups or virtually. Although COVID required us to cancel all of our large, signature events this year, we still enjoyed the weekly farmer's market, a modified FibARK experience and SunFest. Many arts, culture and recreation opportunities were held virtually, including art exhibits, movie showings, fitness classes, and more!
During this holiday season, you'll still be able to enjoy the festive lights on Christmas Mountain and the creative tree displays in Holiday Park. I encourage you to shop locally and support our unique hometown businesses. This helps the local economy and puts sales tax dollars back into the City services you enjoy.
The City has a projected "flat" budget for 2021 with no significant increases or decreases. Despite the conservative estimates for next year, the City will continue to serve residents and the community by maintaining and building on our current services, including several new projects and plans contributing to the local economy.
Please remain diligent by wearing a mask, social distance when appropriate and only gather in small groups of less than 10 people. COVID will continue to be a challenge next year, especially in the winter when we spend more time indoors.
As your mayor, I look forward to continuing to serve the community alongside my fellow city councilmembers and your dedicated city staff.
Stay healthy and safe this holiday season,
Mayor P.T. Wood
