Dump trucks rumble throughout the small city, including in front of the 160-year-old City Hall, where jackhammers and excavators claw at the pavement, following plans to green the adjacent plaza with trees and benches. At the center of the activity is Mr. Bouamrane, a member of the Socialist Party, who is in the news a lot these days as St.-Ouen prepares to welcome the Olympic athletes. He’s announcing contracts with universities and colleges, signing partnerships with foreign governments and bringing the American ambassador into a local elementary school to meet students, who scream and wave in excitement during their arrival.
