'We've Accomplished A Lot Together': Mayor Ben Blake

MILFORD, CT — Democratic Mayor Ben Blake says much has been accomplished over the past several years but there is still more work that needs to be accomplished, which is why he's decided to run for reelection this fall.

Blake in a statement to Patch said:

"When I first became mayor, we re-tooled and streamlined the way our government operates and made things more efficient and effective than ever before. And that's paid off with huge dividends which have helped position us for benefits we're now beginning to enjoy," Blake told Patch.

"Just this past year, we've seen lots and lots of successes: We've brought in more new businesses than ever before - a huge economic expansion that outpaces all other towns in Connecticut.

We've paved more miles of street than ever before, over 15 miles of new roads were paved last year; we've increased downtown parking to help enhance the visibility and vibrancy of our town center. We've implemented a new automated garbage collection system that's cleaner and more efficient.

We initiated a new ambulance system with better response times to improve the safety and service to patients. We have a new AAA credit score that demonstrates the high regard for which bond rating agencies view Milford's prudent fiscal management.

And, we did all of this while cutting taxes - twice. For the first time in history, Milford taxes been reduced two consecutive years in a row. So we've accomplished a lot together and yet, there is always much more to do."

Patch has reached out to local Republicans for an update on where they stand with the mayor's race. We'll update this story once we have additional information.