It's obvious we can't ignore the problem any longer. Locally and nationally, we cannot wait to see how bad it gets. We need to act now.

A delay does not solve the revenue problem.

We know that Seattle is mentioned frequently ... a computer was found in Afghanistan showing pictures of Seattle-area landmarks. So we are in constant contact with the FBI and with other federal authorities.

We have had no specific or credible threats, but we don't take that as any kind of comfort. We know we need to be ready and we know that, that vigilance is the price of freedom.

It's obvious we can't ignore the problem any longer. Locally and nationally, we cannot wait to see how bad it gets. We need to act now.

The opportunities of the twenty-first century make those of us who care about cities feel like kids in a candy store: How will cities survive and lead the way in the transformation required to combat global warming? Resilient Cities gives us a road map for this epic journey upon which we are embarking.

We as mayors have the opportunity to push the envelope and get people thinking, even when it is not politically popular. Cities hold the key.