My Downtown with Gene Fells

York City Police Department | Community Resource Assistant, Downtown Team

Q: What do you love most about working at the Downtown Resource Center?

The location of the office, in the heart of Downtown York, is perfect for our business owners, market vendors, downtown residents, and visitors to stop in. I enjoy stopping in the shops, walking through the markets, and engaging with people. It reminds me of my foot patrol days with the York City Police and being assigned to the Square and doing business checks.

Q: What does “Downtown York” mean to you personally and professionally?

I do a lot of shopping downtown, and many of these folks have become good friends of mine. I like to see these businesses succeed because, in the long run, it benefits me. As a part of the team at the Downtown Resource Center, my feelings are the same, but with a goal: if the businesses are successful, it helps make the downtown safer for everyone, and attracts more businesses.

Q: How has your work with the York City Police Department and the Downtown Resource Center shaped your perspective on the community?

With this new role, I get to see more of how things work. There is a lot of growth happening. I meet with Officer Kathy Nice almost daily, sharing information and concerns of focus, or incidents that need follow-up. There are a lot of good people working to keep Downtown York moving forward.

Q: What’s one of your favorite memories or experiences from working downtown?

I’m still new in the Community Resource Assistant role, but it has been rewarding assisting people. I had an older couple who were visiting the downtown area and got lost and separated. The wife made her way to the office, and I was able to direct the husband there by phone. Also, there was a gentleman who stopped in the office with questions about setting up a food stand in the Central Market. We helped connect him to the right folks, and now his stand is open and doing well.

Q: What advice would you give to someone looking to get more involved in keeping downtown vibrant and safe?

Firstly, come downtown and look around – there is something interesting for everyone. Stay current on things happening through Downtown Inc’s website. You're always welcome to stop in at the Downtown Resource Center. The more you know about Downtown York, the more comfortable you will be.

Q: When you're off duty, where do you like to spend time downtown? Any favorite spots, events, or hidden gems?

There isn’t too much about Downtown York that I don’t like. There are great restaurants with good food. I find walking through the Markets very therapeutic, and now I get to do that as part of my job. I love all the coffee shops. I also love catching a Revs baseball game with my son.

The Downtown Resource Center, winner of the Townie Award for Best Community Partnership from the Pennsylvania Downtown Center, is a one-stop hub connecting entrepreneurs, business owners, and community members with the tools, guidance, and partnerships they need to thrive. The center also serves as a hub for the York City Police Department’s downtown officer team. The center is located at 44 W. Philadelphia Street and is open every Monday from 12 to 4 pm.