Summit Looks to The Year Ahead

Susan Hairston

"Forever the optimist I am predicting an economy on the rebound," said Hairston, who ran for the At-Large council seat in November. She also has positive expectations on the education front in 2012 at Summit High school with, "success on academic, athletic, artistic and forensic fronts." However, in the all-important presidential race this year, Hairston declares "an Obama victory!"

Patrick Hurley

"Americans begin to restore their faith in America and each other," said Pat Hurley, the councilman-elect for Ward II.  In 2012, "Summit builds upon an already terrific foundation and becomes an even safer, more affordable and resilient community in which to live, raise our families, operate a business and retire." Hurley said that city government will futher its aims at becoming "a model of efficiency and effectiveness." And with total faith in the local athletic programs, Hurley is expecting more banners flying in the high school gym,  "Summit High lacrosse and football both win state championships!"

Robert Kopacz

"We'll see a lot more small companies using technology like E-commerce that was once used by big companies," said Robert Kopecz, a local resident and web entreprenuer.  He also sees the trend getting more localized. "There'll be a lot more pressures on municipalities to use more technology for data processing," he said.

To hear the outgoing and incoming group of city officials give their take on 2012, and to hear the state-of-the-city speech, come to a reception and swearing-in on Wednesday, Jan. 4 at City Hall.

The event is preceded by a reception from 7 to 7:30 pm.