Mayor Aftab Pureval - Democratic Mayors

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval gave his first State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s successes over the past year and his plans for the future. His top priorities include affordable housing, economic recovery, workforce development, equity, human services, public safety, and climate action.

Similar to other cities facing a rise in violent crime throughout the pandemic, Cincinnati has stepped up to keep residents safe by investing over $20 million in public safety infrastructure and pursuing gun safety legislation. Mayor Pureval shared other efforts, including removing nearly 1,450 guns off the street, aiding 4,500 survivors of gender-based violence, and improving emergency services with mental health professionals.

“What we all do here, it isn’t just about next year. It isn’t about the next 10 years,” said Mayor Pureval. “We have the power to shape this city’s future for generations to come, and this is the moment when we must step up and take action.”

He also discussed affordable housing initiatives, such as spearheading the creation or renovation of more than 1,000 housing units this year and pushing for more types of housing options in the future.

Watch Mayor Pureval’s remarks 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.