(Jan. 11, 2005) -- Addressing what the City of Long Beach web site said was a "sold-out crowd of over 1,500" at the Long Beach Convention and Entertainment Center, LB Mayor Beverly O'Neill delivered her 11th 2005 State of the City message today (Jan 11).

LBReport.com posts the text as prepared for delivery on a link below.

The City Charter requires that by the 15th of January, the Mayor "shall communicate by message to the City Council a statement of the conditions and affairs of the City, and make recommendations on such matters as the Mayor may deem expedient and proper."

Since 1995, Mayor O'Neill has not verbally delivered her State of the City messages at City Council meetings. The message is agendized, offered in writing and in past years has simply been received and filed. Councilmembers and the public are entitled to comment on the item.

Mayor O'Neill's State of the City Address has become an annual fundraiser for the Long Beach Area Chamber of Commerce. On its calendar of events, the LB Area Chamber's web site said in connection with the noontime event:

"Sponsored by Verizon, communications provider to Long Beach. Reservations required. Click on the Register Now!" which led a form that specified the following for reservations:

The Mayor' office notes that the Address will be cablecast following the Jan. 11 Council meeting and at various times during January, mailed to leaders of neighborhood groups, available on City Hall's web site, available by email or other request to the Mayor's office, available at the City Clerk office and will also be available in the City Council chamber at the Jan. 11 Council meeting.

LBReport.com posts the text of the Mayor's Address below in pdf form as prepared for delivery.

Click on following link: 2005 State of the City: "Long Beach: Strengthened By Change"