Some county and state leaders back up Mayor Malik Evans

ROCHESTER, N.Y. (WHEC) — Calling it the "next chapter in the city’s history", some county and state leaders say they share the same beliefs as Rochester’s new mayor, Malik Evans. During the inauguration, Saturday afternoon County Executive Adam Bello says for years it felt like the city and county stood too far apart, and that there needs to be more consistent teamwork.

"My pledge to you is this that I will join him on that journey so that we come out of these challenges as a stronger and more united community than we have ever been,” Bello said.

Reflecting on some of those challenges, Bello talked about the pandemic, city violence and more.

"We believe that your zip code should not be the determining factor in your future or determine the quality of your education, your safety or your wellbeing.”

U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer says there are talks of revitalization projects.

"Like the North Loop, getting rid of led pipes and doing so much else to make the City of Rochester even better,” Schumer said.

Both Bello and Schumer circled around "optimism" multiple times.

"The fact that we’re doing this ceremony virtually just goes to show you that nothing can stop the hope and optimism of the people of Rochester for the next chapter in our city’s history,” Schumer said.

"Optimism is a strategy for making a better future because unless you believe that the future can be better you’re unlikely to step up and take responsibility for making it so,” Bello added.

A citywide prayer service will take place Sunday at 1 p.m. and will be streamed live from Aenon Missionary Baptist Church. A Teen Town Hall is also set for Tuesday at 5 p.m., and will be streamed from downtown’s Innovation Square.