Mayor Jared Nicholson - Democratic Mayors

In his State of the City Address, Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson highlighted how the state of the city is resolved and making steady progress through collaboration with the community. Mayor Nicholson’s priorities include public safety, jobs, housing, infrastructure, and education.

Mayor Nicholson acknowledged the pressing issue of community violence, emphasizing the importance of collaboration among various stakeholders, including law enforcement, educators, healthcare providers, parents, and community leaders. He shared how the city has taken proactive steps, such as hosting community conversations, mentorship events, and door-to-door visits to strengthen connections and address the root causes of violence. The police force has also expanded recruits, focusing on diversity and increasing gang suppression and youth intervention efforts.

The Mayor highlighted housing initiatives such as the Affordable Housing Trust Fund, which is seeded by ARPA funds and other partnerships to preserve affordable units and prevent evictions. Lynn is also tackling food insecurity through programs such as the Phoenix Food Hub, providing essential services and support to residents in need.

Mayor Nicholson emphasized the importance of holistic support for students, announcing the construction of a new middle school and the expansion of pre-K programs aiming to provide better learning environments and opportunities for Lynn’s youth. He discussed additional efforts to attract and retain high-quality teachers and promote innovative teaching strategies that demonstrate a commitment to improving educational outcomes.

Watch Mayor Nicholson’s full 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.