Mayor Melanie Kebler - Democratic Mayors

Bend Mayor Melanie Kebler delivered her State of the City Address, where she highlighted how city leaders are stepping up to meet the challenges of growth and plans for the city’s future. Mayor Kebler’s priorities include housing and homelessness, public safety, transportation, and water conservation.

In her remarks, Mayor Kebler noted the city is working to address affordable housing and homelessness from every angle and detailed several efforts underway. The city has supported the creation of nearly 1,000 affordable homes and changed policies to make it easier for residents to build ADUs and multi-family homes. She also shared how Bend is working to change codes to make it easier to create safe parking sites and shelters, investing in a Navigation Center, and converting motels into places for elders and families to stay.

Mayor Kebler highlighted public safety efforts with fire and police, sharing how the city recently passed a local fire levy to help keep response times low and launched a comprehensive data dashboard to help residents get timely information on public safety data.

“If there’s one thing I know about Bend, it’s this – we are a community that has always adapted to meet the challenges of our times. And I hope that as we all walk into the future together, you’ll join your City Council and the City of Bend in owning that future and setting a course that our kids and grandkids can be proud of,” said Mayor Kebler.

Read Mayor Kebler’s full address here.

More State of the City Addresses

St. Louis, Missouri

Mayor Cara Spencer

St. Louis Mayor Cara Spencer delivered her first State of the City Address, declaring that the state of the city is promising despite significant challenges and emphasizing a government focused on the basics of core services, public safety, and growth. Reflecting on her first year in office, the Mayor pointed to new and exciting milestones, while underscoring that real progress is measured through consistent, tangible improvements.

Newport News, Virginia

Mayor Phillip Jones

Mayor Phillip Jones delivered his State of the City Address, outlining a bold vision for the future of Newport News. In an address highlighting progress and forward-looking initiatives, Mayor Jones announced policies designed to support working families and strengthen Newport News’ position as a leader in Hampton Roads and across Virginia.

Beaverton, Oregon

Mayor Lacey Beaty

Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty delivered her State of the City Address in March, centered on the theme “Showing Up, Moving Forward,” and grounded in a candid assessment of both local progress and broader uncertainty. She spoke directly to the national moment, affirming Beaverton’s commitment to democracy, the rule of law, and civil rights, while emphasizing that the city’s strength comes from residents who stay engaged and invested in their community.