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New Mayor Bill Peduto Making His Presence Known

PITTSBURGH (KDKA) – Only about two-weeks into the job, but it seems like Pittsburgh Mayor Bill Peduto is everywhere.

Thursday afternoon he was touring the city's 3-1-1 center to make sure citizen complaints are getting quick responses.

"We're not simply asking people to call 311, we're making sure the calls are being monitored, and it result in better city services," Peduto said.

Peduto hasn't even unpacked the boxes in his office, instead he's putting in 12 hour days, and working weekends too.

After being in city government for nearly 20 years, he says he's had a lot of time to think about it.

"I've seen ways that different administrations operate, I've looked at the different departments, and said boy if I was in charge these things would change."

The Mayor even emails his daily schedules to reporters, letting them know he's available.

That's in sharp contrast to former Mayor Luke Ravenstahl.

Sometimes Ravenstahl wasn't seen for weeks at a time. Media outlets would even do stories on "Where's the Mayor?"

Peduto also said he does not want police officers serving as his bodyguards, and doesn't want to take officers off the street.

But acting Police Chief Regina McDonald said, "He's the Mayor of a major city, and it's important that we provide security for him."

The Chief and Mayor did come to an agreement, so Mayor Peduto is using security during the day.

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