Montgomery County Commissioner Dr. VALERIE ARKOOSH gave an overview and update of the state of the county to the club last Thursday. She cited the improved financial situation pointing out that for the first time in several years, payments were made to the pension fund, a balanced budget has been put in place, and the county government has been "right sized" ,with the dropping of several functions previous run by the government that are now felt to be outside the scope of what they should be covering. The goal now is not to create jobs but to create an atmosphere where jobs will flourish.
Valerie also listed several projects that are aimed at improving the environment around Norristown including : The Main St. parking garage improvements, 'County Campus' project , such as One Montgomery Plaza" facelift, New Justice Center, and the Hancock Square Park. Transportation upgrades include the ongoing Lafayette St project, with connection to the Turnpike, and the Transportation Center work and proposed rail connection to King of Prussia.
She summed up the Commissioner's goals as 1. Creating a connected community, 2. Create a sustainable community, 3. encourage a vibrant economy.
Commissioner Arkoosh is welcomed by Prigram Chair, Robin Parker, and Past President, Scott Wright.