Arroyo is confirmed to be Lancaster’s first Latino mayor in its 295-year history

LANCASTER, PA — In a historic victory, Jaime Arroyo has been elected as the first Latino mayor of Lancaster, Pennsylvania, securing over 84% of the vote in a race that saw no Republican challenger. Arroyo, a Lancaster native born in Puerto Rico and a graduate of J.P. McCaskey High School, will officially take office in January 2026.

His election marks a significant milestone for the city, where nearly 40% of the population identifies as Hispanic. But beyond the symbolism, Arroyo brings a bold and inclusive vision for Lancaster’s future—one rooted in equity, opportunity, and community trust.

While Arroyo’s platform doesn’t center on traditional school reform, he emphasizes supporting youth and families through expanded educational programs. His administration plans to:

Strengthen family engagement in education by building bridges between schools and parents.

Invest in workforce development, including job training programs that prepare young people and adults for careers in Lancaster’s growing sectors.

Collaborate with community organizations to provide mentorship and educational resources, especially for underserved populations.

Arroyo’s background as CEO of ASSETS, a nonprofit that supports women and BIPOC entrepreneurs, informs his commitment to creating pathways to success for Lancaster’s next generation.

With the retirement of Lancaster’s current police chief, Arroyo will play a key role in selecting new leadership for the city’s police department. His priorities include:

Hiring a community-focused police chief who is visible, accountable, and committed to building trust.

Launching a Safe Streets Initiative to improve infrastructure and educate residents on how street design can enhance safety.

Hosting quarterly town halls to hear directly from residents about crime concerns and city projects.

Supporting community-based crime prevention, particularly efforts that engage youth and families to reduce violence and promote positive alternatives.

Arroyo’s approach to public safety is rooted in transparency and collaboration, aiming to create a city where all residents feel secure and heard.

Affordable housing: Reducing red tape for developers and increasing housing supply.

Equitable economic growth: Supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs, especially those from marginalized communities.

Responsible tech development: Supporting AI data centers only if they include community benefit agreements to protect residents from environmental and economic harm.

As Lancaster prepares for a new chapter under Arroyo’s leadership, the city stands at the intersection of tradition and transformation. His administration promises to listen, include, and act—with a deep understanding of the community’s needs and aspirations.