White Plains, New York: A City Stitched Together by Community
Meet Tom Roach, the dedicated Mayor of White Plains, New York. He proudly confessed his love and responsibility for this city in a heartwarming video. With almost a century and a half of family lineage in this city, Mayor Roach knows his people, his city, and his job well. This city, an epitome of diversity, brings together people from all walks of life from corners of the globe. What makes White Plains stand out, however, is how well it works together as a community. Mayor Roach finds pride in the town's unique schooling structure. The kids in this close-knit community grow up together from kindergarten all through high school, promoting unity and understanding amidst a culturally diverse backdrop. Mayor Roach reminisces about a past where White Plains’ downtown wasn't bustling as it does today. Back in the day, urbanscape was so quiet you could fire a cannon on Main Street at 5 o'clock and not hit anybody. But things have changed, for the better. He recalls fondly the message from a conference that change was imperative and the rebirth of downtown hinged on its residents, not just attractions and convention centers. Proudly, he announces that White Plains took that advice to heart, and soon, witnessed a downtown renaissance. This recovery, spearheaded by the community's efforts and new residents moving downtown, has resulted in a thriving hotspot filled with energy and life. Interestingly, Mayor Roach doesn't quite view his role as mayor in a conventional sense. Instead, he sees himself as a community facilitator. If the community fabric gets pulled at the edges, it's his job, and indeed that of any mayor, to stitch it back together. After loyally serving his people for 14 years, his excitement about the future is undeniable. If his tenure as mayor is anything to go by, Roach’s continued active involvement within the community promises a bright future for this unique city. His leadership and the enduring spirit of the White Plains community indeed make this city a true testament to the power of people coming together.