Mayor Steven L. Reed - Democratic Mayors

Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed delivered his State of the City Address, reflecting on the past year’s accomplishments and his vision for the year ahead. Mayor Reed’s priorities for the year ahead are crime, the economy, and job creation.

During his speech, Mayor Reed discussed Montgomery’s record-breaking year for economic development, including $1.7 billion in capital investment and the creation of 2,000 new jobs. He also discussed plans for a new arena and convention center, renovating community centers across the city, and revitalizing residential and commercial corridors.

“I want what you want; and we want Montgomery to be the kind of place where we not only raise our children— but those children return because Montgomery offers opportunities – opportunities for fulfilling careers, excellent education and immersive cultural experiences,” said Mayor Reed.

Mayor Reed shared the Montgomery Police Department’s successes in reducing crime, which is marked by a downward trend in overall crime and the homicide rate. Additionally, last year Mayor Reed approved a 15% pay increase for police and is committed to working on recruitment efforts while prioritizing training and other strategies to prevent misconduct.

Watch Mayor Reed’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.