The inauguration of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s second term had neither the pomp nor the symbolism as when he took office as the first Latino to head the city in over a century.
Four years later the novelty has worn off. High initial expectations have collided with political realities, and the economic crisis has put a big damper on most everything. However, although the obstacles are significant, they can be overcome.
First of all, Villaraigosa’s decision not to run for California’s governor bolstered his power in the city, thus assuring that he can dedicate full attention to his job as mayor and to the city's challenges without external distractions.
And, indeed, the city faces plenty of challenges!
The economic crisis, with its attendant rise in unemployment and the deficit in the city’s coffers, is the top priority. Los Angeles continues to be a city of two faces, with the distance between the them growing further and further apart. Look at one side and you see opulent wealth; look at the other, and growing poverty meets the eye.
We support his worthy goals: Public safety so residents enjoy a decent quality of life; good schools where students can learn; and a commitment to turn Los Angeles green.
The city’s dark mood needs more than just economic recovery. Four years ago, the mayor called on us to dream. His second term presents an opportunity to renew the inspiration and those forgotten dreams. Although much water has passed under the bridge since then, it is time to look forward.
We Angelenos are counting on Villaraigosa to seize this opportunity.
The inauguration of Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa’s second term had neither the pomp nor the symbolism as when he took office as the first Latino to head the city in over a century.
Four years later the novelty has worn off. High initial expectations have collided with political realities, and the economic crisis has put a big damper on most everything. However, although the obstacles are significant, they can be overcome.
First of all, Villaraigosa’s decision not to run for California’s governor bolstered his power in the city, thus assuring that he can dedicate full attention to his job as mayor and to the city's challenges without external distractions.
And, indeed, the city faces plenty of challenges!
The economic crisis, with its attendant rise in unemployment and the deficit in the city’s coffers, is the top priority. Los Angeles continues to be a city of two faces, with the distance between the them growing further and further apart. Look at one side and you see opulent wealth; look at the other, and growing poverty meets the eye.
We support his worthy goals: Public safety so residents enjoy a decent quality of life; good schools where students can learn; and a commitment to turn Los Angeles green.
The city’s dark mood needs more than just economic recovery. Four years ago, the mayor called on us to dream. His second term presents an opportunity to renew the inspiration and those forgotten dreams. Although much water has passed under the bridge since then, it is time to look forward.
