February Note From The City Manager

NOTE FROM THE

CITY MANAGER

John Noblitt Sanger, City Manager

February has long been known as the month of love. Each year on February 14, Valentine’s Day, people exchange cards, candy, or flowers with their special “valentine” as a sign of their affection. As I reflect on Valentine’s Day, it leads me to think of all the other things we love in our lives. Of course, we love our spouse, our kids, pets, and our families, but have you ever stopped to think about the love you have for the place you live? I don’t mean your home. I am talking about more than the place you lay your head each night. I am talking about your city.

Each of us “chooses” our place to put down roots. Many things can go into making that decision such as family living close by or the proximity to work. Beyond those things, most of us pick our location to settle down because of the connection we feel to the place and how being there makes us feel.

Cities want and need to be loved. Cities that are loved become more prosperous. When you love your city, you spend time there, you are more likely to invest, you tell others about your city, and they spend time there. This cycle leads investors to notice your city. They see the passion the community has for it and they want to invest.

As I meet all of you, the residents of Sanger, I feel your passion and love for your hometown. We all share a love for Sanger,

our small town with a big, big, heart. With all the growth that is coming, I believe our connection and love for Sanger can become even stronger.

I challenge each of you to reflect over this month of love on what makes Sanger great and do more of it. First, love your neighborhood. An unloved neighborhood appears neglected. Loved neighborhoods have residents that focus on improving the overall condition and appearance. Second, love your neighbors. Work to improve your neighborhood relations through inclusivity and communication. Attend events and functions where you can meet more of your neighbors. Third, love the businesses of Sanger. Support our local shops so they can continue to be successful and invest more into their business. Finally, love your city employees. We are working diligently to build a transparent, customerfocused organization. We all focus on the next project that needs to be completed. Remember to thank that street worker, police officer, fireman, or teller the next time you see them for the well-done jobs they have completed.

Together, we can build a destination city. Love your neighbors. Love what you do. Love where you live.

-John Noblitt