 "The earth laughs in flowers."
- Ralph Waldo Emerson -
 We had a productive offsite meeting this Thursday and Friday at the Muckelshoot Events Center, where city leaders gathered to talk city priorities, strategic plan, budgeting and more. I want to thank the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe for being such generous and hospitable hosts, not just for allowing us to use your amazing convention space, but for all the wonderful food and details that can be so easy to overlook.
I also want to thank your city council members and department directors for making this a priority for our city. We gathered to discuss current and future citywide issues that will affect Auburn residents not just now, but for decades to come.
A large portion of the 2-day meeting was to solicit items for near-term and long-term strategic planning. We discussed things such as downtown revitalization, affordable housing for all income levels, a walkable downtown, how to attract sustainable businesses, more nightlife for all ages, more and equitable access to public transportation, increased family and youth activities, and so much more.
We also talked regional roles, citywide commitments, and ways to ensure our council and leadership team are best serving the residents of Auburn -- a priority we promise to never forget.
 The biggest annual Spring Cleaning project you'll probably ever see is this Saturday! Over 800 of you have signed up to volunteer at this year's Clean Sweep (thank you!), where you'll help beautify parks and streets across the city! I can't wait to see everyone bright and early for the free community breakfast at 7:30 a.m. at the Community and Event Center at Les Gove Park!
 On Wednesday we celebrated Arbor Day in Auburn by planting a beautiful Deodar Cedar at Game Farm Park!
For 20 years, Auburn has planted a tree around city parks, and for 20 straight years, our beautiful city has been named a Tree City USA by the Arbor Day Foundation --and we have every reason to believe we'll be included next year as well!
 Game Farm Park was picked this year because a few pine trees were invaded by pine bark beetles and will have to be removed as they're no longer viable. This new Deodar Cedar will soon grow big and strong and likely outlive us all – and isn’t susceptible to those darned pine bark beetles!
The City of Auburn first observed Earth Day in 2014 and has since observed Earth Day each year since by conducting environmental enhancements projects citywide at Clean Sweep.
 Earth Day and Clean Sweep are annual reminders of the constant need for outdoor and environmental learning, stewardship, local engagement, and achievement through sustainable community action.
Earlier this month, I proclaimed April 22 as Earth Day and Clean Sweep Day, and I call upon all residents of Auburn to find ways to create a more sustainable community in raising awareness and inspiring change. Together, we can create a healthier planet and a brighter future!
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