Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. - Democratic Mayors

In his State of the City Address, Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott Jr. highlighted the themes of unity and strength as defining characteristics of the city’s past year. He emphasized a commitment to improvement and introduced new core values focusing on equity, people-centered, professionalism, innovation, exceptional service, and accountability.

Public safety remained a top priority, with notable reductions in crime rates and improvements in emergency communications. To further combat crime, Mayor Scott shared initiatives such as the “Eyes on the Rock” program for businesses and nonprofits to work with the city’s Real Time Crime Center. Additionally, he unveiled Neighborhood Pulse, a project that will connect residents with city departments and nonprofit partners to breathe new life into neighborhoods.

Mayor Scott discussed initiatives to support economic growth, including job creation efforts and support for minority businesses. Little Rock continues to invest in youth and education, including literacy and summer youth employment programs.

The Mayor announced efforts to tackle food insecurity with a mobile grocery store and combat homelessness by establishing a homeless village and a holistic housing initiative. He highlighted infrastructure development, including sidewalk equity plans and a solar development project, underscoring the city’s commitment to sustainability and accessibility.

Watch Mayor Scott’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.