Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird - Democratic Mayors

“City government, when it’s working like ours, frees people from worries about the basics of city living so they can instead focus on pursuing opportunities that improve their lives and their family’s futures,” she said.

Mayor Gaylor Baird outlined accomplishments from her first two years in office, including expanded efforts on affordable housing and workforce development, new environmental initiatives, and success in leading the community towards recovery from the pandemic.

Approximately 73% of Lincoln residents 16 and older have been vaccinated, outpacing the rest of the state. The Mayor highlighted that the health department has undertaken significant efforts to reach out to Lincoln’s minority communities.

Mayor Gaylor Baird encouraged the community to come together as the pandemic continues.

“If you are feeling proud of our community, too, please take the time to spread the love,” she said. “Spread the love by doing something to take care of someone who needs support. Spread the love with a kind gesture, be it big or small. Of course, right now the most impactful gesture that shows you care for others is to get vaccinated.”

Watch Mayor Gaylor Baird’s full address 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.