05/20/2026
Yesterday, Wilmington lost a real leader.
Mayor Mike Purzycki believed deeply in this city — its neighborhoods, its people, its small businesses, and its future. His vision for Wilmington was never abstract. He believed revitalization happened one neighborhood, one block, and one project at a time. Whether it was welcoming new residential and commercial development, improving walkability, adding bike lanes, or supporting entrepreneurs willing to take a chance on Wilmington, he was constantly pushing the city forward.
At The Mill, we were fortunate to experience that support firsthand.
Mayor Purzycki supported us from day one. He encouraged us to continue growing in downtown Wilmington when we were still uncertain about what our future would look like. He made it to every single one of The Mill’s expansion ribbon cuttings over the years, and he consistently challenged us to keep building within the city.
One conversation with him years ago has always stayed with me. He told us he believed The Mill was central to the revitalization of downtown Wilmington. Those words meant more than I think he realized. As a small business owner, hearing that kind of belief from the Mayor of your city gives you confidence. It gives you strength. It encourages you to take risks and continue investing in a place you care deeply about.
Mike had a rare quality about him — he genuinely checked in on people. He would reach out unexpectedly just to ask how things were going, offer advice, or talk through challenges. Especially in our early years, when every business decision felt uncertain, knowing there was a leader like Mayor Purzycki you could call when things got difficult meant the world to us.
To many of us at The Mill, he became more than just a public official. He was a mentor, an advocate, and someone who truly cared. He had a big brother quality to him that made people feel supported and believed in.
As I reflect on our conversations today, the advice and encouragement he shared over the years take on even more meaning.
Wilmington is better because of Mike Purzycki’s leadership, vision, and belief in what this city could become. His impact will be felt for generations.
We will miss him deeply.
-Robert Herrera
Founder of The Mill
