City of Lancaster, PA

About Lancaster City

Meet the City of Lancaster

The City of Lancaster is in South-Central Pennsylvania and serves as the County Seat of Lancaster County. As such it is home to a variety of cultural, educational, entertainment, government, business, and non-profit organizations including the Fulton Theatre, Franklin & Marshall College, PA College of Art & Design, Thaddeus Stevens College of Technology, Clipper Stadium, etc. as well as nationally recognized food scene and collection of independent retailers and artisans. 

History

Established in 1742 as a borough and then again in 1818 as a city, it has a rich history. It served as the nation’s capital for a day on September 27, 1777, when the Continental Congress met there to escape the British. It is proud to be the home of Thaddeus Steven and Lydia Hamilton Smith, abolitionists, and advocates for public education. Its history is highlighted through its historic buildings and architecture, including the Central Market built in 1852, it is the longest continuously operating farmers market in the nation.

Demographics

Situated in a county long known for its agricultural traditions and Amish, the City of Lancaster is home to a diverse community – nearly 40 percent are Latino, and 18 percent African American. It has a long tradition of welcoming and is also home to refugees from Nepal, Somalia, Syrian, Democratic Republic of Congo as well as Central American countries. It was recently re-certified as a Welcoming City, the first in the state to receive this designation.

Government

The City of Lancaster operates under the Mayor-Council Plan A form of government authorized by the PA General Assembly. Elected positions include the Mayor, City Councilors (7), Controller, and Treasurer, all of whom serve four-year terms and are elected at-large. This form of government provides for the Mayor administering all City operations with Council serving as a legislative body. The City’s operations include, but are not limited to, operating a water system with two water plants and a wastewater system both serving customers inside and outside the City; police and fire bureaus; subdivision, land development and zoning services; property maintenance, lead and building code enforcement; neighborhood engagement and special events; and other services and programs.

Strategic Plan

The Sorace Adminstration’s vision to create a stronger, more equitable Lancaster, Block by Block, is supported by four key priorities: strong neighborhoods, safe places, a sustainable economy, and sound government.