Mayor Van Johnson - Democratic Mayors

Savannah Mayor Van Johnson gave his State of the City Address, highlighting the community’s significant accomplishments from the past year and his plans for the future. The Mayor’s priorities include community development, resiliency, public safety, livability, quality of life, fundamental city services, economic access, and good governance.

“The state of Savannah is resolute. We are renewed. We are refreshed. And we are ready to continue to build the next era of the greatest City on earth,” said Mayor Johnson.

A top priority for the Mayor is affordable housing, and he shared that in its first three years, the Savannah Affordable Housing Fund surpassed its investment target by an impressive 232%, reaching over $122 million. He noted through the city’s Housing Savannah initiative, they have supported 679 households with rental assistance, invested in 254 rental units, helped 586 homeowners with essential repairs, and provided 165 first-time homebuyers with down payment assistance. Additionally, as of mid-year, the Housing Savannah Action Plan is on track to meet 50% of its annual goals, with more than $19 million slated to support 373 households by year-end.

The Mayor also discussed efforts to combat homelessness, noting work through task forces and strategic partnerships to make strides for the community. He highlighted that according to the 2024 Point-in-Time Count Report, Savannah decreased homelessness by 22.5%.

Mayor Johnson also spoke about public safety improvements, sharing that citywide, violent crime has decreased by 21%, and property crime is down by 18% from last year. He discussed safety investments, including adding 32 new officers to the Savannah Police Department and passing a 5% pay increase for officers to stay competitive and recruit quality candidates. The Mayor also shared about the Stolen Gun Ordinance, which holds people accountable for leaving weapons in unlocked vehicles, and the success of the city’s “Top 10 Most Wanted” initiative, a program aimed at capturing Savannah’s most dangerous criminals.

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.