Mayor Harvey Ward - Democratic Mayors

Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward delivered his first State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s progress toward its strategic goals and his vision for an equitable and inclusive community. Mayor Ward’s priorities include housing and homelessness, parks and recreation, safe streets, sustainability, public safety, utilities, and economic development.

Mayor Ward discussed Gainesville’s priority of creating complete streets and shared the city received $8 million in grant funding from the Biden Administration to transform one of the community’s major roadways. The funding will help slow traffic and build better sidewalks and landscape islands.

“We are moving forward more steadily here in Gainesville because of the quality of our community, the dedication of our partners, and the good ideas and participation of our neighbors,” said Mayor Ward.

In his remarks, Mayor Ward also shared how the city is helping low-income families achieve homeownership, including donating 11 vacant lots to Habitat for Humanity and offering free probate legal assistance. Additionally, he spoke about efforts to become a more sustainable community by passing three new zero-waste ordinances that will help them reach their net zero-community-wide goal.

More State of the City Addresses

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.

Minneapolis , Minnesota

Mayor Jacob Frey

In his State of the City Address, Mayor Jacob Frey said the city is strong but emphasized that Minneapolis must refocus on the fundamentals of city government and on delivering results. Reflecting on a difficult year marked by disruption and challenges across the community, Mayor Frey said the city demonstrated resilience and resolve while stressing the importance of prioritizing safe streets, stable housing, and a strong local economy.