Mission Statement

Carolyn F. Salter, Mayor
(903) 731-8415

E-mail: manager@palestine-tx.org

Council, Welcome from Mayor

MISSION STATEMENT:

The City of Palestine is a municipal government dedicated to equality, justice, and well being of all by focusing on public safety, code enforcement, and maintenance of its infrastructure and master plan. We emphasize balanced growth and provide a quality environment in which to live, work, and play.

MISSION GOAL

Citizens trust that City Council members, employees, and board and commission members are aligned and acting on principles in the mission statement.

VISION STATEMENT

The City of Palestine Councilmembers and employees visualize and work to achieve a community that is:

• Progressive
• Naturally beautiful
• Strong business and industry--attractive to new business
• Good Job opportunities for all
• Quality business, government, community, and educational organizations
• Well planned and maintained functional infrastructure
• Healthy and safe
• Ample recreation, cultural, and artistic opportunities
• A historical treasure
• A place all are proud to call home

Adopted by Council in Special Workshop meetings on July 12, 13, and 26, 2002

Program Description

Palestine, a community incorporated in 1871, has a population of 17,598. The City of Palestine is primarily responsible for maintaining a safe, pleasant environment within the community by providing effective governance and the efficient delivery of public service.

The City of Palestine is a "home-rule" city operating under the City Charter originally adopted in 1871, with the present charter adopted in August, 1983. The City is operated by a Council-Manager form of government with a Mayor, six Council Members and a City Manager. The Council Members are elected form six single-member districts, with the Mayor elected at large.

The City Council meets in regular session at 5:30 p.m. on the 2nd and 4th Monday of each month.

Goals

• ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT -- Promote balanced growth, a business climate that will provide a broad tax base with quality jobs, and a self-sustaining economy preserving the unique and historical heritage of Palestine.

• CODE ENFORCEMENT - Encourage all citizens to become involved in a coordinated effort of preservation, restoration, landscaping, and beautification by enforcing adherence with existing codes.

• INFRASTRUCTURE -- To improve and replace and maintain an aging infrastructure, plan for the future growth and expansion, and provide essential needs in an efficient and cost effective manner within budget.

• RECREATIONAL, CULTURAL AND NATURAL RESOURCES -- Enhance the quality of life by providing and maintaining recreational and cultural opportunities utilizing the environmental and natural resources.

• ORGANIZATION DEVELOPMENT GOAL - Promote a city organization that resolves problems using a systematic approach for the efficient delivery of services.

• INTERGOVERNMENTAL RELATIONS -- Build active relationships with all governmental entities to promote an effective and efficient use of tax dollars.

Objectives

• Palestine Economic Development corporation (PEDC) board and the Convention and Visitors Bureau (CVB) board each submit a statement of mission, progress report 2005 plans, and strategic plans to the City Council.
• Update CVB ordinance to reflect current and anticipated situations.
• Communicate emphasis on code enforcement to all city employees.