Good evening my fellow residents, members of Common Council, and city staff. Welcome to all of our honored guests. Thank you for being here.
Before I begin I would like to comment on the fire that occurred on 125 Summit Ave. on Sunday morning. Fortunately only two people suffered minor injuries, but the residents of 12 apartments lost everything. Our firefighters, Summit first aid squad and police were professional and swiftly rescued the residents and battled the fire. Pat Angelo, the manager of The Committed Pig called in his staff and opened the restaurant to feed and warm the fire victims. The restaurant was a staging station for the Red Cross who were assisting those in need. Pat did not open to the public, but rather kept the space quiet and reassuring for the residents. Pizza Vita also provided pizza. The outpouring of support from the community has been tremendous and the YMCA is providing a major service by distributing donated clothing and gift cards to the fire victims. Lastly, the Other Fellow First Foundation has coordinated a fund to provide needed assistance to the victims. Please go to cityofsummit.org for information about donating to the fund.
Tonight, it is my honor to stand before you as your Mayor and report that 2017 was a year of achievement for Summit. Together, we made a strong city even stronger through the implementation of a number of thoughtful and fiscally responsible civic improvements.