Greetings residents,

I am excited to introduce my first post from The Mayor’s Corner. I plan to use this platform to communicate with you each month, keeping you up-to-date on all of the exciting things we have coming up within the city.

Brownsville is a great place to live and we have lots of great things in the works. First, I’d like to say thank you to everyone who attended our first State of the City address in March. The event laid out the vision for the city and set the tone for what’s to come.

We’ve had lots of successes since then, including the launch of our anti-violence initiative, Save Our Streets (S.O.S). Under the initiative city leaders have joined forces to hold collaborated town-hall meetings and other events. We even opened the city’s first police sub-station last month, with an open house ceremony. Since the launch of S.O.S. we’ve seen a decrease in violent crimes and an increase in resident participation, helping to make the city of Brownsville safer. Thank you!

Also a big congratulations to the first S.O.S. writing contest winners from East Side Elementary, Haywood Middle, and Haywood High schools. These talented students will be recognized in a celebration banquet May 7 at Haywood High.

I’m excited to announce our newest initiative, Healthy Moves, kicking off this month. The goal is to work together as a community to create a healthier Brownsville. The official kick-off event is Saturday, May 9. Bring the entire family out to enjoy interactive workshops, healthy snacks, and fun. It’s taking place at the L.Z. Hurley Memorial Football Field from 9:00 a.m. until 1:00 p.m.

Other notable events for the month include the North Brownsville Community Cleanup on May 30 and one of the city’s biggest festivals, the Exit 56 Blues Fest on May 23. Mark your calendars!

And finally, because we have goals of increasing industry and job opportunities in the city, I’m happy to announce that H&R Agri-Power is expanding their location with a groundbreaking ceremony, May 13. This expansion will create at least 20 new jobs in the city.

As we move forward with more opportunities and events, I want to hear your suggestions and feedback. Feel free to email me at [email protected] or stop by City Hall.

Best Regards,

Mayor Rawls