To all my Fellow Residents, from Mayor Gerald E. Naftaly

The headline, Partners in Our Community's Future, is much more than a slogan. It is a fact that has characterized, and distinguished, our City since its inception more than sixty years ago. The relationship has steadily strengthened over that span, through several generations and demographic transformations.

While dozens of examples can be cited throughout Oak Park's history, it is particularly appropriate to acknowledge this community partnership as we enter 2009.

Everyone knows the gloomy situation - high unemployment rates, home foreclosures, serious pressures on the family budgets of those households fortunate enough to have escaped the worst consequences.

Yet, despite these conditions, Oak Park voters in August passed by a wide margin a 10-year, one-mill increase in the local tax levy, with the revenues dedicated to funding Public Safety Department personnel and equipment. The approval is a long-term investment that confirms our residents' high regard for the department and is a tribute to the voters' commitment to our community. It is a strong statement of confidence in Oak Park's future.

As in any successful partnership, this one is a two-way street. Our municipal employees, the people at every level of the Administrative work force, remain committed to providing top-quality citizen services despite cutbacks in personnel necessitated by Budget restrictions. And they are continuing to meet their commitment.

The community partnership theme is highlighted on every page of this publication, because it is threaded throughout Oak Park's community fabric. It is exemplified by effective City Council representation, by the efficiency of Administrative operations, and by the top-notch citizen services delivered by every municipal department. It is typified by citizen participation -- on advisory Boards and Commissions, at City Council Meetings, in community volunteer groups, and at programs and events. This dynamic is illustrated by numerous schedule notations on every web page.

We approach the challenges of 2009 with the certainty that our partnership works! It has been, and will continue to be, a major positive force in shaping our community. Together, we make Oak Park, The Family City, a great place to live.

Best wishes for a happy, healthy, prosperous, and peaceful New Year!