Mayor Andrew Ginther - Democratic Mayors

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther delivered his annual State of the City Address on April 14, reflecting on the challenges of the past year and the unique opportunity this moment presents.

“We are still working to get to the other side of the pandemic, grappling with the need to reform police and end systemic racism,” Mayor Ginther said. “Columbus – and cities across the country – are seeing an unprecedented spike in violent crime. At the same time, there is great hope and a tremendous opportunity to right the wrongs of the past and to build back stronger.”

The City has made a strong effort to support and invest in residents since the onset of the pandemic, including a partnership with the Mid-Ohio Regional Planning Commission to provide internet hot spots to students of Columbus City Schools.

Mayor Ginther noted that the pandemic has exacerbated existing disparities within the Columbus community. “Nowhere has that been more apparent than with crime – especially those crimes involving our youth both as victims and assailants,” he said.

The City has invested $2 million in CARES Act dollars for anti-violence efforts and continues to work with partners and community groups to curb violence. Mayor Ginther also highlighted the expansion of programs like ReRoute, Safe Streets, and Safe Neighborhoods.

Watch Mayor Ginther’s address here.

More State of the City Addresses

Akron, Ohio

Mayor Shammas Malik

During his third State of the City Address, Mayor Shammas Malik outlined a sweeping vision for Akron’s future centered on collaboration, innovation, and community investment. The speech highlighted major new initiatives across housing, public safety, youth opportunity, sustainability, and economic development, all tied together through the city’s “Together for Akron” framework.

Evansville, Indiana

Mayor Stephanie Terry

In her third State of the City Address, Mayor Stephanie Terry reflected on a year defined by steady progress and continued work to build a vibrant, inclusive community where safety, opportunity, and connection help all residents thrive. Speaking under the theme “Building What Matters,” she emphasized that the city’s progress is driven by people—city employees, partners, and residents—who continue to show up and invest in Evansville’s future.

Scranton, Pennsylvania

Mayor Paige Cognetti

Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti delivered her State of the City Address, outlining a six-year turnaround that has taken the city from the brink of financial distress to a position of stability and growth, while continuing investments in public safety, infrastructure, quality of life, and lower costs for residents. Mayor Cognetti also highlighted Scranton’s financial progress, including three credit rating upgrades since exiting financially distressed status in 2022 and achieving its current A- rating with a stable outlook.