Lindsay looks forward

The city’s financial health and economic growth will be Lindsay’s leadership’s No. 1 priority for 2013.

The last goal is already seeing fruition. On Monday, a new Thai restaurant — dubbed “Noodle People” opened — and on Dec. 21, Four Seasons Produce, a produce business which offers fresh-cut fruit, honey, jam and other items, opened for business. For City Planner Bill Zigler this is great news.

“I’m excited that people are looking at a diversity of businesses,” said Zigler.

Other businesses that may be coming to Lindsay include a Texas barbecue restaurant and a dollar store.

 Last week, City Manager Rich Wilkinson said that financially speaking the city is still in the recovery phase.

“We’re in recovery mode. We need to complete projects, work on roads and build our reserves,” said Wilkinson.

According to Wilkinson, the city will be able to meet these goals by being fiscally conservative. The city has already reduced liability by almost $1 million through a reduction in city staff, he said.

On the council, Mayor Ramona Villarreal-Padilla said her main goal was to have a balanced budget.

“I want to review city policies just to make sure we’re operating a the highest capacities,” said Villarreal-Padilla.

Villarreal-Padilla also said the city’s most pressing challenges include fostering economic growth. If she had more money available, Villarreal-Padilla said she would invest in a sports complex in which tournaments would be held with teams from other cities.

Council member Pam Kimball would also like more growth.

“I’d like to see more businesses in town. All we can do is invite,” she said last. Though finishing existing projects is important, Kimball said that if more monies were available she’d like to see some changes including hiring more staff and going after grants, seeking funding for sidewalks and more upkeep for the park and the Olive Bowl.

Wilkinson’s outlook remains positive.

“We’re very fortunate and lucky to live in the best community in the Valley. We have a sport center that attracts thousands per year and we have the best aquatic center,” said Wilkinson.

Noodle People is located at 246 Elmwood Ave, and Four Seasons Produce is located at 419 Hermosa St.