Rochester Mayor Kim Norton delivers State of the City Address

(ABC 6 NEWS) – Rochester Mayor Kim Norton delivered her State of the City Address Friday Morning, she has big plans this year.

“We have a wonderful city to be proud of. Our journey in 2023 will be bright,” Mayor Norton said.

The meeting started with taking a look at the past year and all the city has accomplished.

Mayor Kim Norton believes in the simple message “We Are Stronger Together.”

“We are a city of hope and health and innovation and compassion, a reputation that we all take pride in, I know I do,” Mayor Norton said.

Mayor Norton’s speech entailed many areas of growth that she would like to see for the city.

To name a few, Addressing Homeless, expand on Affordable Housing, and create a sustainable future for all residents.

“We are currently in the need for homes, for those who desire our quality of life, abundant jobs, and education system. Investment in jobs, green space, education safety, infrastructure to support our community is vital. We talk about being a city for health and there is more we can do,” Mayor Norton said.

The mayor took some time to address local businesses and their impact to the community. Many businesses have been impacted by the pandemic.

The mayor reassuring the people in the room, business recovery is vital, and brining new businesses to the Med City is key.

“You will see a continued commitment to making sure that all voices are at the table and that multiple voices for input are used,” Mayor Norton said.

The mayor also taking some time to address the elephant in the room. People who use social media to not be critical of her administration, but to just be mean. This got a round of applause.

“You are hurting our success and recovery difficult by spreading fears and lies. I would ask that we stop throwing stones to throw and instead bring bricks to build to bring a strong and bright future that we are trying to build with our partners in the room,” Mayor Norton said.

Much of what was discussed, the city council looks forward to hearing.

“By emphasizing progress and stability in our work we position ourselves for transformational change aligned with community support and desires,” Brooke Carlson, President of the Rochester City Council said.

In the end, the Mayor is looking toward the future with hope.

“You help make Rochester a wonderful place to live,” Mayor Norton said.

Watch the full State of the City address below.