Outgoing Mayor Reflects on Past Year

In his last speech as mayor before at this week's installation ceremony, Barry Brucker highlighted the accomplishments that took place in Beverly Hills during his term.

He thanked his fellow City Council members, city staff, city commissioners and the community for "working together to make Beverly Hills the very best city in America."

When first entering his mayoral rotation, Brucker had discussed challenges the community faced, including a budget deficit, upcoming negotiations with the city's police and fire departments, and the renewal of the Joint Powers Agreement.

"When I took over as mayor, we had a $4.5 million projected budget deficit," he said. "Thanks to a more robust economy and strong fiscal accountability, I am proud to say that we have not only eliminated that deficit, but enjoy a budget that is in the black."

Brucker also thanked City Treasurer Eliot Finkel, Chief Financial Officer Scott Miller and city employees for helping Beverly Hills maintain its .

Calling it one of the council's most significant financial success stories of the year, Brucker applauded the establishment of long-term contracts with the city's safety employees.

"Knowing that pension reforms are key to long-lasting sustainability, our bargaining units worked with the city to secure a responsible and fair contract with our police officers—and we are very close to finalizing negotiations with our firefighters," he said.

With the approval of the , which appropriates about $9.75 million a year in city funds to the school district for municipal use of school facilities, Brucker said the contract will help keep city schools "vibrant and strong."

Brucker also noted other successes of the previous year:

• the city's last oil well
• Establishing a
• Building the
• Relocation of businesses to town, such as and
• Recognition for Beverly Hills having
• Approval of a for Trousdale Estates
• Completion of the Crescent Parking Garage
• for restaurants
• Groundbreaking for the
• Opening of

With the recent news that Metropolitan Transportation Authority officials are backing a route for the that would , Brucker reiterated his position on the matter.

"The city continues to take a methodical and responsible approach to letting science be our guide by reaffirming our clear and unambiguous opposition to any subway tunnel that goes under Beverly Hills High School," he said.

Brucker added that with the continuing disagreement over plans to , the city is "reassessing the scope and size" of the project.

"We will come up with a plan that will meet our current and future recreational needs for our seniors, our pre-schoolers and the community at large while still being sensitive to concerns about noise, traffic and parking—all within a responsible budget."

In his first speech as mayor, Brien thanked Brucker for his previous year of service. 

"Barry, as mayor, you have set an example of integrity and dedication," he said. "You have always done what you thought was right for the community despite the pressures around you."

Councilwoman Lili Bosse commended Brucker for his history of dedication to Beverly Hills.

"I thank you, and this community thanks you, for all the years that you've given our city," she said. "Eight years of school board, eight years of City Council—16 years of service."

After the ceremony, Councilman Julian Gold remarked on Brucker's time a mayor.

"We had an absolutely immensely productive year," he said. "And I think our former Mayor Brucker did a great job at that."

When asked about the instillation ceremony, Brucker praised the evening's appointment of Brien.

"I could not be more proud to pass the baton on to my friend and colleague Willie Brien. Mayor Brien is a strong leader with integrity and intelligence who will lead our wonderful city to new heights," Brucker told Patch. "I am grateful for his support and friendship when he was serving as my vice mayor, and know that this upcoming year is slated to be one of accomplishment and pride for our entire community."

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