Bell
Bell was the guest speaker for the monthly MainStreet Cleveland luncheon held at the Elks Lodge on Monday. His goal was to “reintroduce” himself to members and inform them about what he intends to work on when taking office in January.
He spoke to a capacity crowd.
“We are going to be looking for ways to cut the budget and keep from raising taxes,” said Bell.
“Right now, we have a budget deficit in the $1 million to $1.5 million range.”
Bell said this is the first time since 1870 that Republicans will control the House of Representatives, the Senate and the executive branch of the Tennessee government.
“We have the responsibility to govern and if we don’t do this correctly, I expect the voters will hold us accountable during the next elections,” said Bell.
Nicholas Lillios commented on the state grants received by MainStreet and asked Bell if he would continue to support the efforts of MainStreet Cleveland.
Bell said the Cleveland MainStreet organization is the envy of others in the state and he would continue support.
n In other business, MainStreet Executive Director Sharon Marr reported that more than 700 vehicles took part in the final MainStreet Cruise-in of the season.
Officials with the Cruise-in said the “Toys for Tots” toy drive was also successful, as they collected four large boxes of toys and cash for the program.
Marr reported that the annual Downtown Halloween Block Party was also a great success. Mars Snackfoods reportedly handed out 7.5 tons of candy during the event held on Halloween.
Marr also noted several upcoming events which will round out the 2010 Holiday season, including the annual Christmas Tree lighting and Caroling and the annual Christmas Parade.
The tree lighting will be held downtown at the Courthouse Annex located on Broad Street.
Festivities begin on Dec. 3 at 6 p.m. with the tree lighting and caroling around the city. On Dec. 4, the Christmas parade will begin at 6 p.m. promptly, according to Marr.
