A Monthly Message to Citizens March 16, 2006 Dear Citizen: Thank you for subscribing to my monthly e-message. I look forward to sharing important and interesting information from the City perspective. Your interest and support of Kansas City is valuable and helpful as we build a great community. Subscribe Sign up to receive monthly e-messages Read previous messages 2004-2005 Kansas City Annual Report The City works constantly to improve the community. The 2004-2005 annual report gives details on the City's performance. Read the report. 2006-2007 budget The City is nearing adoption of the fiscal year 2006-2007 budget. The Finance and Audit Committee will hold its final pre-adoption meeting Wednesday, March 22 at 10:30 a.m. in the 10th floor committee room of City Hall. You may attend the meeting. The budget is expected to be adopted Thursday, March 23 during the City Council's legislative session, which starts at 3 p.m. More about the Finance and Audit Committee or read the proposed budget. Housing update Kansas City has made significant strides in rebuilding its housing program by restructuring, boosting performance goals and developing targeted neighborhood plans. Programs like Minor Home Repair, Housing Rehabilitation and First-time Homeownership Assistance are moving forward again after the City secured $26 million from the U.S. Housing and Urban Development Department. Residents will be able to access much needed support from these programs. The City will continue its constructive relationship with HUD and implement the five-year Consolidated Housing and Community Development Plan to meet the housing needs of Kansas City. Sister Cities 50th anniversary Sister Cities International is celebrating its 50th anniversary. The Office of International Affairs and Trade and the Sister City Association of Kansas City will hold 50 local events to celebrate this year. The City currently partners with 13 sister cities in 11 countries in four continents. Learn how the City is involved in Sister Cities International to help establish Kansas City as a world class city. Sincerely, Wayne A. Cauthen, City Manager City of Kansas City, Mo.