Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird - Democratic Mayors

“City government, when it’s working like ours, frees people from worries about the basics of city living so they can instead focus on pursuing opportunities that improve their lives and their family’s futures,” she said.

Mayor Gaylor Baird outlined accomplishments from her first two years in office, including expanded efforts on affordable housing and workforce development, new environmental initiatives, and success in leading the community towards recovery from the pandemic.

Approximately 73% of Lincoln residents 16 and older have been vaccinated, outpacing the rest of the state. The Mayor highlighted that the health department has undertaken significant efforts to reach out to Lincoln’s minority communities.

Mayor Gaylor Baird encouraged the community to come together as the pandemic continues.

“If you are feeling proud of our community, too, please take the time to spread the love,” she said. “Spread the love by doing something to take care of someone who needs support. Spread the love with a kind gesture, be it big or small. Of course, right now the most impactful gesture that shows you care for others is to get vaccinated.”

Watch Mayor Gaylor Baird’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.