The leaders outlined their priorities at the annual State of the City dinner last Thursday.

Gaithersburg is beginning its budget process for fiscal 2006, which begins July 1.

A public forum on the 11 top priorities, revealed first at the dinner, will take place tonight at City Hall.

Other points in the strategic plan include preserving and improving aging housing, and continuing to reach out to the ever-growing and diverse population.

Mayor Sidney A. Katz also touted the city's debt-free status under its "pay as you go" philosophy, which requires Gaithersburg to save up for projects instead of borrowing.

Some council members said at a recent retreat that keeping the policy is a growing challenge, as the city grapples with funding long-term, big budget projects.

But the crowd erupted with applause when Katz said the philosophy, paired with fiscal responsibility, kept the city from borrowing money for yet another year.

"Gaithersburg has a bright future," said Katz in his seven-minute speech. "It's bright because we are a community that cares, a community that listens, a community that plans, and a community that responds."

About 400 city employees, volunteers and numerous state and county officials, including County Councilman Steven A. Silverman (D-At large) of Silver Spring, and state Sen. Jennie M. Forehand of Rockville, attended the dinner at the Gaithersburg Hilton Thursday, on a night with wet roads and freshly fallen snow.

A video highlighting technology companies in Gaithersburg ended the dinner, showcasing interviews with business and city leaders about why the city is "Maryland's technology address."

Gaithersburg is home to one of the highest concentration of technology workers in the country, the video said, which brings diversity in demographics and education levels to the city.

Katz also said a special thanks to city volunteers who make up committees and commissions.

"You prove that we are our strongest when we all pull in the same direction," he added.

All who attended the event received a Gaithersburg binder, notebook and pen.

"It's so you can write down what Gaithersburg can do better," said Katz. "Then send it to us."

The city budgeted $10,500 for the dinner.