Mayor Justin Elicker - Democratic Mayors

New Haven Mayor Justin Elicker delivered his State of the City Address, expressing optimism about the city’s future as a growing and vibrant community and the important work ahead to uplift more residents so they can thrive. The Mayor’s priorities include housing, jobs, education, safety, transportation, and sustainability.

Housing was a central component of the Mayor’s remarks, as he shared a commitment to building more affordable units while ensuring the quality and affordability of existing housing stock. New Haven has seen significant population growth, and efforts are underway to make housing accessible to all income levels, including through initiatives such as Accessory Dwelling Units legislation and theI’m Homeprogram for first-time homebuyers.

Mayor Elicker highlighted the city’s economic growth and diversification, particularly in emerging sectors such as bio, neuro, life sciences, and climate technology. He discussed efforts to connect residents to these opportunities through education and training programs, partnerships with local colleges and high schools, and support for entrepreneurs.

The Mayor outlined strategies to reduce gun violence through law enforcement, community outreach, and support services for at-risk individuals. Initiatives such as the Real Time Crime Center and the P.R.E.S.S. program have decreased violent crime rates, while the Elm City C.O.M.P.A.S.S. crisis response team has provided support for mental health, substance use, and homelessness issues.

Watch Mayor Elicker’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.