It was a packed house this past Friday when City Manager Jay Melder came to visit! Before Jay spoke to the club, President Andrew Cosey gave a Paul Harris Fellow +6 pin to Tom Stanley and did a flag exchange with a visiting Rotarian from Wisconsin! Andrew also reminded those in attendance that we are collecting Pull Ups for Shelter For the Rain during the month of April. Once all Rotary business items were discussed, Kim Campbell introduced Jay.
Jay began his talking by saying Savannah is booming and that we are set up for success for many years to come. Our population is growing and the economic outlook is looking good. He reminded everyone that Savannah is 112 square miles meaning it is more than just downtown. One of the keys to managing growth is affordable housing. He showed us a map where housing is being built and the development trends happening on the south side of town. Jay then touched on the budget which is $560 million dollars. He must present a balanced budget every year. Everything is increasing in cost but thankfully, tourism and hotel tax contributes to the cities finances. Jay then said that public safety is his #1 priority. He concluded his talk by encouraging people to consider joining the Savannah Police Department. Jay was very patient with all our many questions!