Dear Neighbors and Supporters,
It has been my honor to serve Atlanta for the past 3 years, and it is hard to imagine that I am now about to complete my first term on Atlanta City Council Post 2 At-Large. Some of the highlights of my term include the launch of the “Living Smarter Campaign.” Through this program, we were able to reach and educate constituents and fellow city employees about making good choices that impact our environment, our health and overall well-being, as well as sharing ideas for sustainable communities. As we continue to grow this program, I hope to enhance the curb side recycling services available to citizens, further reduce trash to landfills and at same time devise a way to make this a revenue generator for the City.
In addition, I have served on several committees on council, including Chairing the City Council Zoning Committee, serving on the Finance Executive Committee and Utility Committee. My most notable demonstration of leadership was on the Finance Executive Committee for pension reform. On June 29, 2011, Council voted unanimously in favor of a new retirement plan for Atlanta City Workers.
The comprehensive pension reform plan creates $22 million in savings the first year; reduces the city’s exposure to market risk; and allows the city to pay off $1.5 billion in unfunded pension liability. The new measure will save the city more than $270 million over the next 10 years, and more than $500 million in 30 years.
While Mayor Kasim Reed applauded our efforts, his leadership in achieving pension reform should be acknowledged as well. It is a fine example of how two branches of government can work together. In fact, across the nation, Atlanta’s revamped pension program is being held out as the most sweeping pension reform by a major city.
I am proud of the accomplishments during this first term, and honored to serve such diverse neighborhoods and businesses. But there is much more work to be done, and I hope you will help me keep the momentum for another 4 years!
Very truly yours,
Aaron
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