2009 Mayor's Message                                           View 2008 Outgoing Mayor's Message

I will take this opportunity to offer my appreciation to the Citizens of Eustis and this Commission for allowing me the privilege to serve - I do not take it lightly.   I also wish to thank those who have served in the past and take this time to recognize them for their efforts.    

There is never a short list of issues, opportunities, or requirements facing government.  This year is no different in that respect than others, or the years to come.   The manner in which we handle those is what I would like to address, mostly because our actions will speak to them first rather than any written or spoken words.   What is different is the desire for this commission to serve in a unique style, and in a manner that provides each person in, and around the community, an equal and transparent opportunity to be served.  Some have pointed out that, even collectively, this Commission’s experience as an elected body is light.  That may be true, but in my opinion, what also comes with that is a departure from what Eustis has seen throughout its entire history of 125 years.  This is a Commission committed to leveraging our strengths, with unique perspectives individually and collectively that are not rooted in "the way we have always done it".    In order to get new results, we will pursue new processes.

Rather than list every promise or desire I have for this city, I chose one that I feel is the most important in order to serve you.   The challenge for myself, this Commission, our staff, and you, the Citizens that we serve, is to listen before judging or deciding. 

Winston Churchill once said, “Courage is what it takes to stand up and speak; courage is also what it takes to sit down and listen.”  While the first part of that quote has always come easier for me the older I get,  the more I realize the tremendous benefit of the later.   I am committed to providing this City a government that recognizes this ideal.    Issues will come and go, many completely forgotten.  The manner in which they are handled stays with us.  There are no limits to the successes we will enjoy as we work together honoring our heritage and continuing to create a City for all to appreciate and enjoy. 

Thank you again for the opportunity to serve you.

- Scott Ales

  2009 Mayor

  City of Eustis