Savannah Mayor Van Johnson delivered his State of the City Address, reflecting on the city’s accomplishments and challenges over the years and his vision for the future. His priorities include sustainability, infrastructure, economic development, water, housing, homelessness, public safety, transportation, recreation, and arts.
Mayor Johnson emphasized the city’s commitment to responsible development, affordable housing, and homelessness solutions. He noted the creation of the Housing Savannah Task Force and the $19.1 million investment into the Affordable Housing Fund.
The Mayor highlighted the city’s efforts to address climate change through the 100% Savannah Plan, focusing on renewable energy and social well-being. These efforts include installing solar panels on city-owned buildings, receiving a $1 million EPA brownfield revolving fund grant to clean up polluted sites, and phasing out single-use plastics.
In his remarks, he noted how public safety remains a priority, with over $4.3 million invested in the Savannah Police Department, the expansion of the ShotSpotter system, and the establishment of the Savannah Cares Task Force for police accountability.
Watch Mayor Johnson’s full address here.
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