Mayor Harvey Ward - Democratic Mayors

Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward delivered his State of the City Address, highlighting the many ways his administration’s policies have made the city safer, cleaner, and more affordable, and celebrated the strength of their arts community by welcoming home one of their homegrown members of the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

Mayor Ward centered his remarks on keeping the “Spirit of ’76” alive in Gainesville, pointing to measurable progress across the city. Gun violence has dropped to near record lows, with gun-related homicides declining from 16 in 2023 to seven in 2024 and three in 2025, and Gainesville experienced its safest roadways in nearly a decade. The city opened IMPACT GNV, which also houses the B.O.L.D. program, and recognized three Gainesville Police Department officers with Valor Commendations for their courage during a January active shooter incident.

The Mayor also highlighted major investments in infrastructure and housing. Gainesville is investing $40 million this year in projects made possible by the half-cent infrastructure surtax, including a new Fire Station 3, a new Southwest Public Safety Services Center at Fire Station 9, and a new Gainesville Police Department property and evidence building. Over the past three years, the city has also partnered to deliver nearly 850 affordable homes across the community.

He underscored ongoing efforts to return control of Gainesville Regional Utilities to the City Commission, thanking the former City Manager for helping streamline operations as the city continues separating powers from GRU. The Mayor also honored musician Benmont Tench and presented the Mayor’s Award for Excellence in the Arts to Buster Lipham.

Read more about the Mayor’s remarks here and here.

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