Governor Offers Support to Fresno Mayor-Elect | ABC30 Fresno

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By ABC30

Thursday, November 13, 2008

Fresno, CA, USA During his visit to the Fresno Chamber of Commerce Governor Schwarzenegger described his relationship with Fresno Mayor Alan Autry as a great partnership. Schwarzenegger said "He's being replaced now by Mayor-elect Swearengin. Swearengin right? You say it better than I do actually. I just say swear-engine."

He's got the name right, which is a good start. Mayor-elect Ashley Swearengin understands how Autry's star power has helped the city. Swearengin said "I think Mayor Autry opened the doors for our city in large part because of his relationship with the governor. He got us a seat at the table. My job as the next mayor is to make sure we stay at the table - that our voices are heard, that our proposals are advanced."

Gov. Schwarzenegger said during the meeting at the Chamber, "I'm looking forward to working with you. We don't know each other as well as I know Bubba. We have had an extraordinary relationship where we can call each other at any given time."

Swearengin didn't get much time to talk with Governor Schwarzenegger but knows she'll soon get her chance. The Mayor-elect said "I want him to know that his work here in the valley is not done, that we have been successful in raising the profile of our region but we still have major issues - air quality, unemployment, water infrastructure."

No governor has spent so much time in the valley as Arnold Schwarzenegger. He hinted the frequent visits would continue. The governor said "I'm looking forward to establishing that same relationship with you. I've heard so many wonderful things about you."

Swearengin said it's important to have the governor's support because there are some issues the city can't solve by itself. She added "I've been impressed by his interest and concern for Fresno and the San Joaquin valley and it was great to hear he wants to continue the working relationship."

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