Moncrief Credits Partnerships for City's Success

For the eighth and final time, Fort Worth Mayor Mike Moncrief delivered the State of the City address to the Fort Worth Chamber of Commerce.

The mayor's theme was "Partnerships Equal Progress." He said it a simple message, focusing on how the public and private sectors have together put the city on the right track.

Moncrief said the numerous recent partnerships the city has engaged in recent years helped get Super Bowl XLV events, increase hotel stays 68 percent increase in the last two years and get more animals adopted.

"Partnerships is what drives the city's engine," he said afterward. "I thought it was important to portray that message, particularly to this audience."

Business leaders such as Andre' McEwing, executive director of the Southeast Fort Worth Redevelopment Corporation, took Moncrief's message to heart.

"He has left a mission for all the business leaders in this community and the stockholders, and I'm confident that the new mayor will take the reigns," he said.

Moncrief is hoping for one final partnership -- one involving the Fort Worth streetcar, which failed as a purely public entity in recent months.

"Let's hit the reset button," he said toward the end of his hourlong address. "Let's consider a model with greater participation from the private sector. I personally believe Fort Worth can and will find a successful balance."

Moncrief said he hopes such balance will continue when he leaves office.

"My successor should always remember that partnerships are the key to our city's success," he said during his address.

Moncrief has not endorsed anyone for mayor. However, he did endorse the City Council.

"Each of these council members are proven and tried leaders, and those that are seeking re-election deserve to remain in office," he said.

Moncrief said that he and his wife, Rosie, will stay involved in all things Fort Worth and maybe do some work around the house.

"I got some great ideas about colors, fabric and furniture -- maybe even a bean bag chair. I hear they're coming back," he said to rousing applause.

That won't be happening, his wife joked after the speech.

"I may have to lock the door to keep out," she said with a laugh.

While Moncrief urged the future leaders of Fort Worth to continue with partnerships and move the city forward, he also said his eight years have been the highlight of his political life.

"It has been an unforgettable honor to serve the proud people of this strong, safe and growing city," he said.