PORT JERVIS, NY — At the June 27 Common Council meeting, Mayor Kelly Decker reported on the Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress report on the city, which says among other things, “The City has turned the corner.”

Hudson Valley Pattern for Progress describes itself on its website as “a not-for-profit policy, planning, advocacy and research organization whose mission is to promote regional, balanced and sustainable solutions that enhance the growth and vitality of the Hudson Valley.”

Among the positives in the report are Port Jervis architecture and infrastructure, transportation and accessibility, the city’s revitalization plan, waterfront park space, ability to walk from home to various destinations, its surroundings of natural beauty, the cleanliness of the town and the anchoring around the mall.

The report also said profitability is good in Port Jervis. “Businesses actually do well in Port Jervis; they stay in business,” Decker reported.

Among the recommendations were to expand public programming and hospitality options, hiking and biking trails, and marketing for outdoors retailing, hotels, motels, bed and breakfasts and restaurants.

Decker explained, “They say we need more restaurants, less fast food.”

Issues that need addressing are parking, perceived concerns for safety while walking around at night and unoccupied store fronts.

There’s also a need to brand the image of the city, and the suggestion put forward was, “There’s no place like Port.”

The council members several times discussed the idea of further developing Port Jervis as a tourist destination. Members said businesses could be brought to the area centered on the hospitality industry, and that can bring Port Jervis much needed tax dollars and boost its economic and historical significance in Orange County.

On another matter, council member Robert Ritchie reported that the Pike Plaza Mall project is moving forward, and that five persons are close to signing to move in. “I think you are going to start see things moving; this is very encouraging for Port Jervis,” he added.

Another theme that often comes up in the meetings is the ongoing quest by the city and the police force to combat the drug problem. Ritchie said seven people were arrested in a June 17 police operation for marijuana possession and packing materials.

“Port Jervis police is working hard to clean up the mess. If you see something say something. It will help a great deal. Prescription pill drop-offs started this weekend, too.” A drug drop-off collection container has been installed in City Hall, where drugs are accepted with no questions asked.

He encouraged residents to bring all kinds of prescription drugs, including those for pets and expired prescriptions.