Mayor Sharetta Smith - Democratic Mayors

In her State of the City Address, Mayor Sharetta Smith outlined her administration’s commitment to enhancing Lima’s infrastructure, fostering economic growth, promoting safe neighborhoods, investing in youth programs, and addressing housing needs.

Mayor Smith announced initiatives to support small businesses, including the expansion of contracts through the Lima Mowing Program and investments in critical water and wastewater infrastructure. The city launched the Arctaris-Lima Opportunity Zone Fund, a $25M commitment to invest capital in growing companies and community infrastructure projects located in Lima’s
Opportunity Zones.

Through effective negotiation, the city secured favorable contracts for police and firefighters, contributing to improved public safety. Significant strides were made in crime reduction, with decreases in both violent crime and overall crime rates. Investments in street lighting further enhanced neighborhood safety and security.

Mayor Smith highlighted efforts to streamline housing assistance programs, which resulted in a significant increase in applications and allocations. The Mayor also discussed investments in homeownership initiatives and partnerships with organizations such as Habitat for Humanity to address housing challenges.

Watch Mayor Smith’s full address here.

More State of the City Addresses

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.

Boise, Idaho

Mayor Lauren McLean

In her seventh State of the City Address, Mayor Lauren McLean emphasized the progress the city of Boise has made in creating a city for everyone. The Mayor also highlighted the progress the community has made in affordable housing, public safety, transportation, and quality-of-life investments while working to preserve the sense of belonging and opportunity that residents value.