The State of Chester City

Six months into his term in office, Chester Mayor Stefan Roots gave his first "State of the City "address on Tuesday morning on Widener's campus in Latham Hall.

- Lorraine Lavender-Sams

Speaking to a room filled with Chester City Council, a few community members, community stakeholders, politicians, and potential investors, Roots laid out his upbeat, hopeful vision for the city he loves.

Chester, the only city in Delaware County, has its challenges, including bankruptcy, and Roots addressed each one--appearing not to skirt any issue.

In his opening statement, the Mayor said, "So what is the State of the City? Reading the newspaper or watching the news, you probably have the impression it's not very good. In our homes and businesses, in our churches and community centers, we see a city that's being reborn. We've some difficult times ahead for certain, but the corner has been turned. Our residents feel it.

Our business community is feeling it. And now we ask you to experience it for yourselves. Please join us on this journey."