By Linus Flomo
Mayor Robert Bestman has urged for increased budgetary support to ensure the continued growth and development of Paynesville, emphasizing that while his administration has made notable progress, financial constraints remain a significant barrier to achieving its long-term goals.
In his annual address to residents, delivered earlier this week, Bestman reviewed the key accomplishments of his administration since taking office in April 2024. However, he also highlighted the ongoing challenges the city faces, particularly in securing the necessary funding to sustain these efforts.
Among the major achievements noted by the mayor was the improvement in waste management services, including the removal of longstanding garbage piles from high-traffic areas like Central Red Light and Gobachop Market. Bestman also reported that critical heavy-duty cleaning equipment, which had been non-functional for months, was repaired and is now operational.
This has significantly improved the city’s cleanliness and hygiene standards.
“Our administration has worked diligently to repair all heavy-duty equipment within the first three months, and these machines are now helping us keep the city clean,” Bestman said, acknowledging that these efforts were made despite limited financial support from the government.
Bestman highlighted the completion of a new two-story office complex at the Paynesville City Corporation (PCC) headquarters, which will help alleviate the space constraints that have hindered the efficient functioning of the city’s administration.
The mayor also emphasized the role of partnerships in driving Paynesville’s development. He noted a collaboration with the city of Seoul, as well as the Uni-Network for Smart City projects, which aim to modernize Paynesville’s infrastructure and enhance its technological capabilities.
The Orange Foundation’s tree-planting initiative is helping to improve the city’s environmental sustainability.
While these efforts represent significant strides, Bestman underscored the urgent need for more financial support to address ongoing challenges. He pointed to gaps in equipment, training, and logistical capacity that could undermine the city’s future development if not addressed promptly.
District 4 Representative Michael Thomas, in a show of support for the mayor’s call, pledged that the Paynesville City Legislative Caucus would advocate for increased funding for the PCC in the upcoming budget discussions.
“The caucus will work tirelessly to ensure that Paynesville receives the necessary financial resources in the upcoming national budget,” Representative Thomas said, aligning with the mayor’s call for greater national collaboration to address the city’s needs.
Looking ahead, Mayor Bestman outlined a series of ambitious projects for 2025, including the digitization of public transportation, the modernization of urban planning, and the introduction of community wellness programs.
However, he made it clear that the success of these initiatives hinges on securing the necessary resources and a continued commitment from all levels of government and the community.
“My administration is focused on gradually transforming Paynesville into a model city, and we are committed to delivering results for our residents,” Bestman stated. “But we cannot achieve these goals without a collective effort from all stakeholders, including our legislative representatives, government partners, and the people of Paynesville.”
As the city moves into the new year, the mayor’s call for increased budgetary support highlights the critical role of financial backing in sustaining the momentum of Paynesville’s development. Despite the challenges, Mayor Bestman’s leadership remains resolute, and his vision for a more modern, sustainable city continues to drive his administration forward.
