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

Detroit, Michigan

Mayor Mary Sheffield

Detroit Mayor Mary Sheffield delivered her first State of the City Address, outlining a vision centered on lowering the cost of living, expanding homeownership, investing in families, and improving city services. She framed her agenda around making Detroit a more affordable, safer, and more opportunity-filled city, with a focus on growing population, supporting working families, and strengthening neighborhoods.

Lima, Ohio

Mayor Sharetta Smith

Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith delivered her State of the City Address in a new format, transforming her traditional remarks into a community-centered conversation that brought residents, city leaders, and local partners together to answer the questions that matter most. Her address was built around questions submitted by residents, covering topics including public safety, infrastructure, housing, economic development, and family stability.

Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Mayor Cavalier Johnson

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson delivered his State of the City Address under the theme “The Year of Housing,” centered on a simple belief that everything begins at home. He framed his agenda around three core priorities: housing affordability, housing availability, and housing quality, emphasizing that safe and stable homes are foundational to strong families, neighborhoods, and a thriving city.