We’ve made some great progress, but we still have a long way to go.

The theme of “One City” has been the constant in my administration, and one that I came to as a result of my 30 years on the streets of Rochester. We are fortunate to be a city of tremendous resources, talents and wealth; but we also have far too many people struggling with substandard education, no access to good jobs, their neighborhoods plagued by drugs and crime.

We will not be successful as a city until we come together and prosper as a whole. We’ve been fortunate to see some changes -- decreases in violent crime, demolition of vacant properties, the planned world headquarters of PAETEC downtown, the groundbreaking of the Frederick Douglass Cultural Center, just to name a few – all with the help of Rochester’s businesses, non-profits, faith groups and neighbors. We are on the verge of even greater things, and with your support, I have no doubt that we will get there.

We cannot rest until everyone in our city has the opportunity to participate in the American Dream right here in Rochester. That’s why I will continue my focus on public safety, economic development, education and customer service. We will continue to look for effective ways to keep our streets safe; recruit and retain businesses that employ local residents; support City School District initiatives that increase graduation rates; and provide residents with responsive and efficient City services.

It is an honor and a privilege to be Rochester’s Mayor. Thank you for all you do to help and support us in becoming the best mid-sized City in America!

Bob Duffy