Rochester, N.Y. - City Council President Lovely Warren said in an announcement Friday that she has a different vision for Rochester, in particular city development.
"I believe that if the city taxpayer's money is going to be invested in major projects, then the people should see something in return like jobs and affordable housing," Warren said.
Warren, a democrat, will run against democratic incumbent Mayor Tom Richards.
Some wonder if the race could split the party.
"The strength of the party is not my concern, the condition of our people is my concern," City Councilman Adam McFadden said. I am a democrat but I am a citizen of this community first."
"This isn't personal this is about a vision for the city," McFadden said.
McFadden said he stands behind Warren and that Mayor Richards failed to put enough focus behind neighborhood development.
"I think there should have been some more attention on distressed neighborhoods but not just the distressed ones, there have been some pretty affluent ones that have also been ignored for developments downtown," McFadden said.
Warren's announcement was an emotional one for New York State Assemblyman David Gantt.
Warren is Gantt's Chief of Staff.
Gantt fought off tears at one point, describing Warren.
"She gets along with people, she also fights on behalf of our community," Gantt said.
Richards released the following statement Friday:
"I have always made it clear that I do not have a political agenda. Instead, I have a city agenda, one that puts Rochester’s 210,000 residents before any other consideration. Part of the agenda is to focus and finish the initiatives and development that are underway to transform our city. This is why I am seeking a second term as Mayor. I want to see our city transformed into a place that has better school performance, improved housing and job opportunities and safer, lively neighborhoods.
When I was asked to join city government by Mayor Duffy, our goal was to make Rochester the best mid-sized city in America. My goal is to focus and finish and make that a reality. We are seeing reinvestment and renewed confidence in our city. We are seeing our diligent efforts pay off for the training and hiring of city residents and minorities for city funded projects. Our police and fire departments are improving their diversity. Much remains to be done but we are clearly on the right path towards our vision of Rochester as the best place to live, work and raise a family."
