Mayor Jeffrey Mims - Democratic Mayors

Dayton Mayor Jeffrey Mims delivered his first State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s accomplishments and his vision for the future. His top priorities are Dayton’s youth, public safety, economic development, climate action, housing, and neighborhood revitalization.

As a former teacher, coach, and school board member, Mayor Mims spoke at length about his desires to invest more in Dayton’s youth. He shared his plan to move forward with new programs involving city leaders and businesses to support youth mental health services, job preparation, and more.

“Children in this community represent 20% of the citizens, but they represent 100% of our future,” Mims said. “We must do all that we can to ensure they become contributing members of our thriving society.”

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.