FY 2018 Popular Annual Financial Report FY 2018 Popular Annual Financial Report | Page 23

Repor t Looking Forward I n 2019, the City Council broadened one of its strategic priorities to Support Youth and Families rather than just to focus on quality education. The four remaining priorities, Champion Great Neighborhoods, Enhance Regional Mobility, Invest in our Economy, and Put Technology to Work remained unchanged. As in previous years, significant investments are planned for public safety in FY19. The Police Department is adding 13 new positions, eight police officers, one police sergeant and four civilian investigators. Four of the police officers and a sergeant are to enhance the AISD School Resource Officer Program, and another two police officers are for additional security at our recently opened Downtown Library and Central Plaza. The City is extremely proud of its new facilities and wants to ensure they’re safe for all to enjoy. The final three police officers are the result of the culmination of the 2015 COPS Grant, which offset the initial costs of adding officers to our ranks. The Fire Department is also adding three new positions, one per each shift, to increase staffing at Station 17. Other public safety investments include funding for several police technology enhancements and for the planned replacement of a heavy fire apparatus. Great neighborhoods contribute to a higher quality of life and greater investment in our economy. In FY19, Code Compliance will continue to focus on code violations by proactively addressing violations and increasing outreach to the community. Planning & Development Services has once again implemented the popular Neighborhood Matching Grant Program. The goal of the program is to provide financial support for resident- and community- based programs and activities that foster civic pride, enhance and beautify neighborhoods, and improve neighborhood vitality and participation. Additionally, the City will begin work on a five-year, $189 million bond program approved by Arlington voters in November 2018. This program will provide funding for streets and sidewalks, park and recreation centers, fire stations and other public facilities.. Tourism plays an important role in the vitality of Arlington’s economy. The Convention and Event Services Fund will pay for outside professional services to study the City’s capacity to partner with a private developer to construct a hotel in the Entertainment District. Arlington recognizes the importance of providing adequate roadway, aviation, and bicycle and pedestrian infrastructure to ensure residents and visitors can travel safely and efficiently. In 2019, Arlington will expand Via, the City’s “on-demand” rideshare that increases flexibility and access to a wide range of destinations. The next phase of our Autonomous Shuttle Program in the City’s Entertainment District will take to the streets next year. In addition, several large regional transportation projects, including the IH-30 and SH-360 interchange will continue into FY19. Looking forward to FY19 and beyond, the City of Arlington is poised to achieve great things, to realize the goal of being a live, learn, work, and play city – a true American Dream City. Financial PAGE 23