Mayor Phillip Jones

Newport News Mayor Phillip Jones gave his first State of the City Address, centered on the theme of Building Forward. He celebrated community accomplishments while outlining his vision to guide the city over the next several years.

Mayor Jones underscored the importance of education as a top priority for the community, praising the city’s educational achievements and sharing initiatives that will revise curriculum, increase accreditation, and close achievement gaps. He also discussed efforts to enhance early childhood education outcomes by developing a state-of-the-art early childhood center, which will open later this year.

The Mayor outlined various strategies and partnerships related to public safety, particularly to address gun violence. Mayor Jones noted establishing the Newport News Office of Community Safety, hiring a violence prevention manager, investing in youth sports programs, and exploring hospital-based violence intervention programs.

Mayor Jones emphasized the need for continued youth engagement and declared this year the Year of the Youth in Newport News. He encouraged the community to get involved in mentorship opportunities and other youth programming, such as the city’s summer youth employment program. The Mayor acknowledged the importance of businesses and the civic community engaging with young people as it is a collective responsibility to build a better future for the youth of Newport News.

Watch the Mayor’s full remarks 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 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.