It’s hard to believe it’s been two months since I took the oath of office. In that time, I’ve come to learn so much more about Lancaster City: from the nearly 600 hardworking City of Lancaster employees who make the services we offer our residents happen; from the community members who are eager to see long-standing issues in their neighborhoods addressed; from the organizations who are excited to partner with the City. Among all of these conversations is a common thread of wanting to make our community better for everyone.
Though it’s only been 68 days (but who’s counting?) I’ve been to every corner of our city to hear from residents, business owners, and other stakeholders how they can see my strategic priorities of An Economy That Works, Government That Delivers, and A City Built For Everyone at work in their neighborhoods. I’ve appreciated hearing candidly from them what the City does well, and where there’s room for improvement.
Below are a few highlights from my first few weeks. I hope to be in touch soon with more!
Best,
–Jaime
Inaugural Town Halls
I held my first two town halls in late February, at Ross Elementary and West Art. These were great experiences for residents to connect with City services they may not know about, and to hear about my strategic priorities. We’ll hold two more town halls within my first 100 days in the Southeast and Southwest, then hold one town hall per quarter, rotating through the city’s neighborhoods.
Celebrating Small Businesses
We’ve celebrated Lancaster City’s growing small business community with 5 ribbon cuttings so far this year and several more on the schedule. I’m excited to see how many of them are focused on building a sustainable economy centered on the triple bottom line of people, planet, and profit. These businesses are proof that small businesses keep our local economy thriving.
Connecting with SDOL Students
I truly believe you can’t be it if you can’t see it. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting so many School District of Lancaster students across all grade levels. From engaging with our J.P. McCaskey Neighborhood Leaders Academy cohort, to reading to students at Wickersham, to holding a town hall with Rep. Smith-Wade-El at Washington. Our city’s future is bright!
