Stamford Mayor Stresses Importance Of 'Mayor's Night Out'

STAMFORD, Conn. (CBSNewYork) - Mayor's Night Out is a tradition in Stamford, Conn., when the mayor travels around the city to speak with residents personally.

As WCBS 880's Connecticut Bureau Chief Fran Schneidau reported, when Mayor David Martin goes out to meet constituents, he's likely to put in a 14-16-hour day.

Listen to Stamford Mayor Stresses Importance Of 'Mayor's Night Out'

Martin said the local gatherings are important and are critical to listen to residents' concerns.

"I have had people telling me their stories and sobbing due to their particular circumstance and in some cases, we've been able to help with that," he told Schneidau.

The mayor said residents need to know their mayor is accessible and eager to help whenever possible. Martin also sets aside evenings at City Hall for people to discuss their problems, Schneidau reported.

"Our mission here is to improve the lives of the people of the city of Stamford and if I can do that, that's the kick I get out of this job," Martin said.