restore community spaces that were lost to budget cuts in the late 1990s and early 2000s.“When we lost our community centers, the violence went up,” Mayor Helfrich explains. “Now, we’re working to reopen spaces where kids can interact with police officers, play basketball, or learn music.” Current plans include a new police-based community center and a career training facility that will offer free programs to local youth. As York continues its transformation, the city stands tall as a model for how mid-sized American cities can reinvent themselves while preserving their historical character. Through innovative housing solutions, workforce development programs, and comprehensive safety strategies, York is creating a template for sustainable urban renewal. As Mayor Helfrich reflects on the city’s progress, his vision is practical and hopeful: “You only get to vote twice a year for who your leadership is, but you get to vote every day with your dollar to determine what kind of community you want to have.” the future of this city,” the mayor emphasizes. A key component of York’s success has been its unconventional approach to leadership and community outreach. Mayor Helfrich appointed a former high school police chief to lead the city’s police department, recognizing the value of his personal connections with at-risk youth. The department also employs trauma-informed outreach workers who engage with families immediately after violent incidents to prevent retaliatory violence. At the same time, the city is actively working to 16 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 02
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