(La Porte, IN) - Usually, the Mayor's State of the City address is a formal luncheon full of local dignitaries.  This year, it was an 18-minute Facebook video.

 

La Porte Mayor Tom Dermody acknowledged the unexpected difficulties his administration faced in its first year.  In the address, Dermody said, "Our administration has faced challenges this year.  We've been forced to adapt and correct course more times than we can count.  However, I'm proud to say that despite all the challenges that 2020 brought, the future has never been brighter for the City of La Porte.  Not only has our team worked each day, without complaints, to serve the residents of our city, but they have exceeded all expectations and found ways for our city to shine both now, mid-pandemic, and beyond". 

 

Dermody went on to highlight the boon to La Porte's economic development this year, including roughly $82 million of capital investment that is adding 600 jobs to the local workforce. 

 

Dermody committed to continue cleaning up the city by improving the water system, adding to the police department, and removing dilapidated structures.  Eleven unacceptable rental properties were condemned this year.

 

And, Mayor Dermody reiterated his goal to grow La Porte to 30,000 people by next decade.  Despite the pandemic, he remains more optimistic than ever.  Dermody said, "If we're able to accomplish all of this in what has been the toughest, craziest, most unpredictable year in many of our lives then I can't wait to see what 2021 brings.  This year has proven, that together, we can do anything".

 

Dermody said La Porte will continue to face budget hardships because of the pandemic, but his administration is committed to spending less while doing more in the coming year.