Hamilton, New York: The Small Village with a Big Heart
Meet Ruth Ann Loveless, the charismatic mayor of Hamilton, New York. This small jewel of a village, home to just 2000 residents, certainly punches above its weight, offering a wide array of amenities common in much larger cities while remaining unblemished by urban sprawl. More than just a residency, Hamilton, it seems, represents a community bolstered by a deep sense of camaraderie and common purpose. Nestled among the picturesque landscapes of New York, Hamilton houses the esteemed Colgate University. While the university technically doubles the village's size during the academic year, it beautifully blends with Hamilton's charm, fostering a synergistic relationship that is symbiotic at its core. In Hamilton, the line between the quaint village and full-fledged city blurs. A broad range of services, from its own natural gas and municipal electric to wastewater treatment and water systems, are operated within the village's purview. The village is inexplicably proud of its library system, police department, fire department, and even its airport – feats that few villages in the state can claim! While these multifaceted services make Hamilton unique, what is truly remarkable is the efficiency and businesslike approach with which they’re run. Mayor Loveless shares, "We're like a small city, and the fact that we run our services efficiently like businesses to provide incredible services to our community is something I take great pride in." The camaraderie between the village and the university is notably harmonious, with collaborative initiatives underway that nurture both entities. This strong "town-gown" relationship highlights the village's spirit of unity and inclusivity. Hearteningly, Hamilton is led by a community of caring individuals who devote their time and energy towards an array of volunteer projects and programs. The communal spirit shines bright, particularly during the community gatherings at the village green, evoking joy and togetherness. Aside from the harmonious community life, Hamilton also offers an array of leisure activities, from Colgate's nationally-ranked golf course to athletic events and concerts that are open to the public. The village and the university, arm in arm, invite guests to experience the unique blend of small-town charm and metropolis-like facilities. Ruth Ann Loveless concludes with an open invitation, "We love for people to come and move to Hamilton but also to visit. This little village is always open for visitors and newcomers. It's a warm and welcoming community." Hamilton truly seems to be the small village with a big heart, where community spirit, quality services and a symbiotic relationship with a prestigious university create a truly unique living experience.