On Thursday, October 4th, Mayor Bach spoke to the 15th Annual Healthy Living Conference. This event was held at the Crowne Plaza and hosted by the Senior Resource Council.
During his remarks, the Mayor shared some aspects of his 2013 City Budget Proposal- including turning 3,500 streetlights back on and resuming evening bus service. He also mentioned the plans to bring Police and Fire to their fully authorized strength and begin using fire stations, in partnership with community health organizations, to run neighborhood clinics. These clinics will help to assist and educate citizens on the prevention of high blood pressure and diabetes. The Mayor emphasized that these new services would be provided within the framework of a balanced budget.
Of particular importance to the seniors in attendance were the statistics the Mayor shared on aging in Colorado Springs. Studies show that Baby Boomers are moving to Colorado Springs at a rate of two and a half times the national average and statistics from the Pikes Peak Area Council of Governments Area Authority on Aging show that there will be a 15% increase in the 60 and older population of our region between now and 2015.
“It is important to be pro-active and honest about the aging of this community,” said Mayor Bach. He stressed the necessity of the City and community partnering together so that the people of Colorado Springs can “age well.” The speech ended with a robust question and answer session covering topics like homelessness, geriatric care, and Colorado Springs Utilities.




