Roots has a new vision for Chester’s future

I want to say how pleased I was to see the Delco Times publish an article on April 4 highlighting the three candidates seeking election to Chester City Council in the May 18 primary. I thank the Times for presenting this important news coverage on the primary in Chester.

I am excited for Chester that Stefan Roots stepped forward to announce his candidacy for one of the open seats on City Council. This is good news for the city.

Too often the local primary elections which are wedged in-between presidential elections are easily overlooked, carelessly dismissed, and frequently produce unopposed victors who seldom have to present their vision for serving their residents. On May 18, the Chester primary will be different because Stefan Roots’ election to City Council can be a milestone moment for Chester on its path to begin a new era of forming a shared partnership between the elected city government and the residents of Chester. Stefan has a vision and is sharing it. There is new hope to be seen and heard for the men, women, and children, and for businesses in Chester.

I was born and raised in Chester. In my lifetime, the city of Chester and its 75,000 residents were the economic engine for Delaware County. It was bustling and productive. “What Chester Makes, Makes Chester” was its signature boast from atop the railroad tracks downtown near Sixth and Welsh Streets. It was a fact that Chester’s

prosperity fostered Delaware County’s prosperity and growth. However, its industrial engine was steadily dismantled in the 20 years after the WWII. During the ensuing five decades Chester suffered loss of jobs and tax revenue from closed factories, oil refineries, and shipyards. Its population plummeted to less than 35,000; its broken economy lay dormant for decades, resulting in industrial blight, empty houses and buildings left to age under neglect. Many of its residents’ dreams remain unfulfilled. Through all of this the city struggled mightily to survive, having one failed plan imposed after another.

But after such bad news for so long, an exciting opportunity lies ahead for Chester and its people. Stefan Roots has a vision and a plan for his hometown. He is a new leader with a vision for the city that includes hearing the residents voices and responding to their interests. I’ve heard it on his radio show, his blog, and in his public and private conversations. His plan and suggestions are not newly expressed. He has shared them in the past; offered them to those in position to do something. Now he realizes there will be no action if he remains outside. He must step into the public arena and bring about change with the help of like-minded residents. He believes in Chester and his fellow residents. He is ready to work for the city. I’m glad you have the opportunity to vote for him on May 18 or sooner. It’s time for a change in Chester.

On May 18, the Chester primary will be different because Stefan Roots’ election to City Council can be a milestone moment for Chester on its path to begin a new era of forming a shared partnership between the elected city government and the residents of Chester.