Bellevue mayor has big plans for city

BELLEVUE — With statewide elections only two weeks away, Bellevue Mayor Kevin Strecker talked about his upcoming visions for the city. Strecker has served as the city's mayor for the past eight years, a total of two terms. He's running unopposed in the Nov. 7 election. During the past four years, Strecker said he and his administration have been committed to making the city economically stronger by working closely with the city's economic development director, Dave Sabo. He's also been working with safety service director Bill Brugnone and city engineer Kevin Scagnetti to create and maintain safer city streets. "(We're) working in tandem to create safer city streets by resurfacing, painting, reviewing intersections and crosswalks on how they can be a safer area for everyone," Strecker said. "We are moving forward with our aggressive street resurfacing program, (as) $750,000 a year is set aside in the (city budget) for street resurfacing." Strecker and his administration plan to continue to clean out and rebuild catch basins and sinkholes as a way to minimize flooding throughout the community. "Every year, we replace old water distribution mains to maintain the highest quality water for our customers," Strecker said. Strecker also said the city is moving forward in constructing electric vehicle charging stations "to better serve our residents and travelers heading through Bellevue to other area destinations." These improvements to the city would not be possible without the community's continued support. The cooperation and teamwork of his colleagues have helped him create a stronger Bellevue. "I owe this community and the residents so much," Strecker said. "I am truly humbled that the residents allow me to work for and represent them. It truly has been one of my greatest honors. I promise to work as hard these coming four years as I have the last eight. Thank you to my co-workers and to all the city employees. You all make this city run. You all make the difference."