2022 State of the City Addresses

• Mayor Sharon Weston Broome - Baton Rouge, LA

• Mayor Robert Garcia - Long Beach, CA

• Mayor Steven L. Reed - Montgomery, AL

• Mayor Todd Gloria - San Diego, CA

• Mayor Randall Woodfin - Birmingham, AL

• Mayor Wilmot Collins - Helena, MT

• Mayor Erin Mendenhall - Salt Lake City, UT

• Mayor John Tecklenburg - Charleston, SC

• Mayor Matt Tuerk - Allentown, PA

• Mayor Jim Strickland - Memphis, TN

• Mayor Gary McCarthy - Schenectady, NY

• Mayor Daniella Levine Cava - Miami Dade County, FL

• Mayor Kathy Sheehan - Albany, NY

• Mayor Keith James - West Palm Beach, FL

• Mayor Levar Stoney - Richmond, VA

• Mayor Greg Fischer - Louisville, KY

• Mayor Jeffrey Mims - Dayton, OH

• Mayor Quinton Lucas - Kansas City, MO

• Mayor Steve Williams - Huntington, WV

• Mayor Bruce Harrell - Seattle, WA

• Mayor Melvin Carter - St. Paul, MN

• Ruthanne Fuller - Newton, MA

• Mayor Lauren Poe - Gainesville, FL

• Mayor Rosalynn Bliss - Grand Rapids, MI

• Mayor Steven Fulop - Jersey City, NJ

• Mayor Ken Miyagishima - Las Cruces, NM

• Mayor Andy Schor - Lansing, MI

• Mayor Victoria Woodards - Tacoma, WA

• Mayor Mike Duggan - Detroit, MI

• Mayor London Breed - San Francisco, CA

• Mayor Ravi Bhalla - Hoboken, NJ

• Mayor Farrah N. Khan - Irvine, CA

• Mayor Luke Bronin - Hartford, CT

• Mayor Andrew Ginther - Columbus, OH

• Mayor Sharetta Smith - Lima, OH

• Mayor Ras Baraka - Newark, NJ

• Mayor Joyce Craig - Manchester, NH

• Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. - Little Rock, AR

• Mayor Emily Larson - Duluth, MN

• Mayor Allen Joines - Winston-Salem, NC

• Mayor Kate Gallego - Phoenix, AZ

• Mayor Brandon M. Scott - Baltimore, MD

• Mayor Miro Weinberger - Burlington, VT

• Mayor Andre Dickens - Atlanta, GA

• Mayor Breea Clark - Norman, OK

• Mayor Eric Garcetti - Los Angeles, CA

• Mayor Justin M. Bibb - Cleveland, OH

• Mayor Patrick J. Furey - Torrance, CA

• Mayor Meghan F. George - Lakewood, OH

• Mayor Tishaura O. Jones - St. Louis, MO

• Mayor Lacey Beaty - Beaverton, OR

• Mayor Elaine O’Neal - Durham, NC

• Mayor Indya Kincannon - Knoxville, TN

• Mayor Eric Adams - New York, NY

• Mayor John Cooper - Nashville, TN

• Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui - Cambridge, MA

• Mayor Jacob Frey - Minneapolis, MN

• Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard - Mount Vernon, NY

• Mayor Ted Wheeler - Portland, OR

• Mayor Jane Castor - Tampa, FL

• Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz - Toledo, OH

• Mayor Lauren McLean - Boise, ID

• Mayor Darrell Steinberg - Sacramento, CA

• Mayor Hardie Davis, Jr. - Augusta, GA

• Mayor Tim Keller - Albuquerque, NM

• Mayor Michael B. Hancock - Denver, CO

• Mayor Steve Adler - Austin, TX

• Mayor Sam Liccardo - San José, CA

• Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba - Jackson, MS

• Mayor Libby Schaaf - Oakland, CA

• Mayor Van Johnson - Savannah, GA

• Mayor Regina Romero - Tucson, AZ

• Mayor Eric Johnson - Dallas, TX

• Mayor Aftab Pureval - Cincinnati, OH

• Mayor Adrian Perkins - Shreveport, LA

• Mayor Sylvester Turner - Houston, TX

• Mayor LaToya Cantrell - New Orleans, LA

Mayor Sharon Weston Broome
Baton Rouge, LA

In her annual State of the City address last Wednesday, Mayor-President Sharon Weston Broome reflected on her city’s challenges over the past year and shared her vision for Baton Rouge’s future.

In Mayor-President Broome’s address, she noted that her top priority is public safety and that solutions are in progress to help reduce crime rates. She said the city would use American Rescue Plan Act funds to replace patrol units and other vehicles, increase surveillance technology, and implement more gun violence reduction strategies.

​​“I need people who believe in what may seem like the impossible dream for Baton Rouge. People who share in the collective work and responsibility for what transpires in our community. People who are passionate about positive change and committed to serving as catalysts towards making a difference. People who believe in Baton Rouge no matter what. And I know we can all be those people,” said Mayor-President Broome.

Mayor-President Broome also addressed economic development, infrastructure, drainage, plans for American Rescue Plan dollars, and the quality of life in the city.

Watch Mayor-President Broome’s full address here.

Mayor Robert Garcia
Long Beach, CA

Long Beach Mayor Robert Garcia gave his seventh and final State of the City address. He reflected on his city's successes over the past year and several initiatives for the year ahead.

In his address, Mayor Garcia discussed the city's response to COVID-19 and their leading vaccine and testing programs. He also addressed economic recovery, sharing about Long Beach's $250 million Economic Recovery Act which has led to growth in many key sectors.

"The state of our city is strong because our people are strong. Our country will recover because communities like Long Beach are leading the way. We have an opportunity to turn the page on a dark moment in our history. We cannot become a country where truth becomes overwhelmed by lies," said Mayor Garcia.

Mayor Garcia also discussed future initiatives such as launching a guaranteed income pilot program, creating an enrollment system for universal pre-K, finishing his climate action plan to end oil production by 2035, and launching a free student transit pass.

Watch Mayor Garcia's address here.

Mayor Steven L. Reed
Montgomery, AL

In his annual State of the City address, Mayor Steven L. Reed shared his vision for his city and a timeline to bring forth the new Montgomery.

Mayor Reed noted his top priority is public safety and the wellbeing of his residents. He said that Montgomery, like many cities across the nation, is facing an epidemic of violent gun-related crime but is working to find solutions. This includes launching an Office of Violence Prevention, investing $500,000 into gunfire detection and prevention services, installing new surveillance technology, and confiscating more than 1,650 illegal firearms.

"I can tell you, this city and its people are ready to start a new journey. Together, we will move boldly forward with passion and purpose. And together, we will realize an even more prosperous and more equitable Montgomery," said Mayor Reed.

The Mayor also addressed initiatives to help the unhoused, criminal justice reform, and programs to help with litter and trash.

Read Mayor Reed's address here.

Mayor Todd Gloria
San Diego, CA

In his State of the City address, Mayor Todd Gloria shared his vision for San Diego in 2022, focusing on infrastructure, public safety, housing, and homelessness.

Mayor Gloria spoke about infrastructure improvements, including the Pure Water San Diego program and his Sexy Streets initiative. Regarding public safety, he stated that the city is working to ensure they have the necessary resources to combat crime and implement an Independent Commission on Police Practices.

"I'm as hopeful and optimistic as ever because I believe we are on our way. I promised to reinvigorate San Diego with a jolt of Big City Energy, fostering a culture of YES that will help us ascend to our rightful place as one of the greatest cities in the country," said Mayor Gloria.

He also shared plans for addressing housing and homelessness, including using $21 million in federal funds to create new homes for low-income residents and 480 new housing vouchers. 

Watch the Mayor's address here.

Mayor Randall Woodfin
Birmingham, AL

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin outlined his vision for the city for 2022 in his second State of the City of address, focusing on economic development, neighborhood revitalization, Birmingham's Promise, infrastructure, and public safety.

At the forefront of Mayor Woodfin's priorities is investing in new developments and helping revitalize Birmingham's neighborhoods. He said the city would be transforming the former Ensley High School into a 244 home and mixed-use development. In addition, he shared that a $25 million project would invest in housing in the Belview Heights neighborhood.

He also discussed the successes of the Birmingham Promise program, which provides tuition assistance to city graduates attending public colleges in Alabama. The program has assisted over 800 students, and $1.7 million has gone toward tuition.

Mayor Woodfin also highlighted other priorities, including providing more job and education opportunities for youth, positioning Birmingham as a "major player" in the sports realm, and helping the city be more active in its partnerships with health care and health technology industries.

Watch Mayor Woodfin's address here.

Mayor Wilmot Collins
Helena, MT

Helena Mayor Wilmot Collins delivered his fifth State of the City address, discussing each of the city department's accomplishments over the past year and his goals for the future.

Reflecting on 2021, Mayor Wilmot praised his city for its many accomplishments, including launching the "Be Heard Helena" platform, establishing the Housing Trust, hosting a Citizen Academy to increase engagement with the Police Department, and maintaining city services with minimal disruptions throughout the pandemic.

"We must boldly tackle tough issues, such as affordable housing for our vulnerable populations, and public safety, while still reflecting the principles and charitable character of our citizens," said Mayor Collins. "Together, with our partners, we will accomplish these goals and more while still tending to our fiscal responsibilities and in-service to those who entrusted these decisions to us."

In his address, Mayor Wilmot said his goals for the coming year include launching housing rehabilitation programs, administering more than $8 million American Rescue Plan dollars, and creating a more stable workforce.

Read Mayor Collins's address here.

Mayor Erin Mendenhall
Salt Lake City, UT

Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall delivered her State of the City address, where she reflected on her city's resiliency over the past year and how her city has emerged stronger, safer, and more equitable.

In her address, Mayor Mendenhall noted her city had made historic progress in improving its air quality and delivering more renewable energy sources. Salt Lake City has installed new air quality monitors, expanded its urban forest by planting 2,000 trees, improved public transit options, and advanced several renewable energy partnerships.

"Sometimes it's hard to power through the exhaustion. It's hard to see past the vitriol and the condescension on social media. It's hard to see leaders in the Capitol sitting back instead of stepping up," she said. "It's hard to look at the encampments in our public spaces and see the individual people who are struggling. t's hard to look at our dangerously low vaccination rates and find compassion for those who are scared or who believe the misinformation they have been fed," said Mayor Mendenhall. "Masked, unmasked, vaccinated, unvaccinated, house and house-less, activist and elected — we are all Salt Lakers. ... Keep your hearts open and your eyes focused on the road ahead."

Mayor Mendenhall also discussed economic growth opportunities, affordable housing, homelessness, public safety, plans for American Rescue Plan dollars, and her city's COVID-19 response plan.

Watch Mayor Mendenhall's address here.

Mayor John Tecklenburg
Charleston, SC

Charleston Mayor John Tecklenburg gave his annual State of the City address outlining his plans to fix flooding, fight crime, build affordable housing, and create new partnerships to expand opportunities and improve residents' quality of life.

Mayor Tecklenburg, in his remarks, discussed how water is Charleston's greatest asset and its biggest liability. He shared how the city must address concerns with rising seas and extreme weather and laid out plans to spend over $100 million on flooding, mitigation, and drainage projects.

"Here in Charleston, we still believe in the power of grace, and we can still hear the voice of common sense as it rings strong and true across our city and within the walls of this council chamber. That's why the State of our city is strong – Charleston strong. It's why the city council and I will spend this year continuing to advance the concerns of our city's common sense majorities," said Mayor Tecklenburg.

Watch Mayor Tecklenburg's address here.

Mayor Matt Tuerk
Allentown, PA

Allentown Mayor Matt Turek delivered his first State of the City address, reflecting on the city's current state and his vision for the future.

In Mayor Turek's address, he began by sharing the city's history from 1970 forward and discussing the city's highs and lows. He noted that Allentown had experienced many challenges throughout the years, especially as the COVID-19 pandemic continues. He stated that he has actively listened to the community and shared some of his top priorities that need to be addressed. These priorities include housing, public safety, cleanliness, economic development, parking, public health, and education.

"It's my commitment that I make to you as the Mayor of Allentown. I'm going to be open and honest with you always," said Mayor Tuerk.

Watch Mayor Tuerk's address here.

Mayor Jim Strickland
Memphis, TN

Memphis Mayor Jim Strickland gave his annual State of the City address reflecting on how his city is strong yet still recovering from the pandemic and other challenges. In his address, he outlined his plans to make Memphis stronger by addressing crime, prioritizing economic development, and advancing solutions to aid the city's revenue shortage. 

Mayor Strickland said his top priority is public safety and reducing violent crimes. He shared how the city has made progress on its overall crime rate but saw a rise in violent crimes during the pandemic like many other cities. His response to these growing concerns includes implementing a gun violence intervention program, rebuilding the Memphis Police Department, creating the SCORPION unit to address violent crimes, punishing violent offenders, and positively affecting more young people.

"Memphis is a city that has changed the world, and we are not done yet. While we have our challenges, I believe the future of Memphis is brighter now than it ever has been, and I look forward to a strong year in 2022," said Mayor Strickland.

Watch Mayor Strickland's speech here.

Mayor Gary McCarthy
Schenectady, NY

Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy delivered his State of the City address, reflecting on the city's positive year and his vision for ongoing projects in the years to come. 

In Mayor McCarthy's address, he shared how Schenectady is now evaluating American Rescue Plan funding projects and will soon begin implementation. He also discussed the impact of the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act and how funding will be used to expand programs in transportation, broadband, energy, resiliency, and water projects. 

"We ended 2021 with a bright light. I'm proud of the record we have, we have a bright future, and it's an exciting time to be in Schenectady," said Mayor McCarthy.

Watch Mayor McCarthy's address here.

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava
Miami Dade County, FL 

Miami Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava opened her State of the County address by reflecting on 2021 and its many challenges, including the pandemic, rising gun violence, and the tragedy in Surfside. Despite these challenges, Mayor Levine Cava says her county is ready to take on the future and will continue to build upon the strong foundation set in 2021. 

"I've been a public servant for over half a century, but this is the true pinnacle of my career. This is not just a job for me. It is a calling –– and I want you to know just how proud I am to be your Mayor. And yes, we have come a long way — together — but I also know we still have much work to do," said Mayor Levine Cava.

She also spoke about current projects, such as investing in affordable housing, launching Strive305 to support entrepreneurs, and creating the Miami-Dade Tech and Innovation team to focus on talent development. 

Watch Mayor Levine Cava's address here.

Mayor Kathy Sheehan
Albany, NY

Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan delivered her annual State of the City address, sharing her vision for the year ahead and outlining plans for American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) dollars. 

Mayor Sheehan shared her Albany for All Initiative, which will use ARPA dollars to help residents recover from the COVID-19 pandemic and address public disparities. The initiative will use $25 million to support public health, small businesses, education, workforce development, housing, transportation, community revitalization, tourism, and much more.

"Seeing the Rescue Plan signed into law by the President...resulted in direct aid to the city of Albany - unprecedented funding to allow us to replace our lost revenue, as well as to invest in our communities in ways that address the inequities that were really laid bare by the pandemic," said Mayor Sheehan.

Watch Mayor Sheehan's address here.

Mayor Keith James
West Palm Beach, FL

West Palm Beach Mayor Keith James gave his State of the City address, reviewing his past year's successes and discussing his plans to create a community of opportunity for all. 

Mayor James shared his top priorities for West Palm Beach, including public safety, housing, and creating more job opportunities. In the past year, Mayor James noted that the city saw a 16% decrease in crimes and created safer neighborhoods through the Neighborhood First Initiative. He also discussed how the city created 1300 new jobs through new business partnerships and added more than 500 affordable housing units. 

"The city of West Palm Beach not only measured up to the challenges exposed by COVID-19 with unremitting courage but also created something transformative moving forward," said Mayor James. "That despite some of our darkest hours where we lost loved ones and saw many others struggling to simply survive, this city made a statement about its future, about its character, about itself."

Watch Mayor James' address here.

Mayor Levar Stoney
Richmond, VA

Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney delivered his annual State of the City address sharing several initiatives the city is pursuing to create more economic opportunities and equitable living. Mayor Stoney’s top priorities include public safety, housing, economic development, public health, and more. 

“When I look at 2021, I see resilience. I see a Richmond that was bold in the face of adversity. I see a community that chose to thrive in spite of the challenges we faced,” said Mayor Stoney.  

In his remarks, Mayor Stoney shared multiple initiatives Richmond is pursuing to reduce gun violence and create safer communities. A few initiatives include adding additional funding for the We Matter RVA youth program, starting a gun buyback program, and establishing a civilian review board.

Watch Mayor Stoney’s address here.

Mayor Greg Fischer
Louisville, KY

Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer delivered his 12th and final State of the City address, reflecting on the many accomplishments achieved over his tenure and promising more ambitious work in 2022. His priorities include launching a pilot universal basic income initiative, a digital inclusion program, and a program to increase the use of solar installations to boost the city’s sustainability efforts. 

“Together, we have achieved remarkable accomplishments in the face of daunting odds, and we have laid the foundation for even more dramatic progress in every Louisville neighborhood, for every Louisville family,” said Mayor Fischer. “You have my commitment that I will be running through the finish line in this, my final year in office.”

In his remarks, Mayor Fischer noted that since 2014 the city had seen an investment of $21 billion in its built environment and launched many youth programs such as SummerWorks, Summer Reading and Cultural Pass, and Evolve502.

Watch Mayor Fischer’s address here.

Mayor Jeffrey Mims
Dayton, OH

Dayton Mayor Jeffrey Mims delivered his first State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s accomplishments and his vision for the future. His top priorities are Dayton’s youth, public safety, economic development, climate action, housing, and neighborhood revitalization. 

As a former teacher, coach, and school board member, Mayor Mims spoke at length about his desires to invest more in Dayton’s youth. He shared his plan to move forward with new programs involving city leaders and businesses to support youth mental health services, job preparation, and more. 

“Children in this community represent 20% of the citizens, but they represent 100% of our future,” Mims said. “We must do all that we can to ensure they become contributing members of our thriving society.”

Watch Mayor Mims’ address here.

Mayor Quinton Lucas
Kansas City, MO

Kansas City Mayor Quinton Lucas gave his third State of the City address outlining the city’s budget for the year ahead and his top priorities. These priorities include affordable housing, public safety, infrastructure, investing in youth, and making the city more climate-resilient. 

In his remarks, Mayor Lucas shared how the city has recently allocated $12.5 million in additional funding for their Housing Trust fund, $2.5 million to stand up their Tenants’ Right to Counsel program, and added millions for rental and utility assistance. Mayor Lucas also shared how the city saw a decrease in homicides over the past year due to collaborative efforts from the police department, county prosecutors’ office, and violence prevention efforts. 

“I often think that the greatest thing we can do in government is not some magic solution to all that ails us in society, but to support people where they are,” said Mayor Lucas. 

Watch Mayor Lucas’ address here.

Mayor Steve Williams
Huntington, WV

Mayor Steve Williams used his annual State of the City address to stress that strengthening the city’s fiscal stability during the past four years has allowed Huntington to fortify employee pensions, upgrade aging facilities, replace antiquated equipment, tackle crumbling infrastructure and reduce business taxes, all through a global pandemic. Huntington now has positioned itself to take economic strides that will be transformative for the next 50 years, he said.

But with this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity comes an obligation to help the nearly one-third of Huntington residents who are living in poverty, Williams said, as he outlined a proposed $250,000 in spending to address food insecurity and a new summer youth employment program for at-risk teens and young adults.

“We have governed intellectually, and its result is a steady, strong fiscal balance sheet,” Mayor Williams said. “We now have the capacity to govern with our heart. We will endeavor to leave no person behind.”

Watch Mayor Williams’ address here.

Mayor Bruce Harrell
Seattle, WA

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell delivered his first State of the City address outlining his vision of “One Seattle” and sharing his top priorities, including public safety, homelessness, affordable housing, infrastructure, and balancing the city’s budget.

“One Seattle means a renewed focus on good governance and tangible progress, on nuance and conversation. I believe this group, right here, can – and will – set a new tone and a new example for what can be achieved when we hit reset and chart a shared agenda for our City – together,” said Mayor Harrell. 

In his remarks, Mayor Harrell detailed his plans to not only address gun violence but prevent it through new laws, local and regional collaboration, innovative technologies, and more. Mayor Harrell also shared his plans to support small businesses with an equity approach, particularly supporting women, veterans, LGBTQ+, and communities of color by improving access to capital, cutting red tape, and simplifying certification requirements.

Watch Mayor Harrell’s address here. 

Mayor Melvin Carter
St. Paul, MN

St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter gave his State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s resiliency over the past year and his vision for the future. Mayor Carter’s top priorities include public safety, youth development initiatives, economic development, and affordable housing.

“While there is much work ahead, today I stand confident that the State of Our City is strong enough, resilient enough, and bright enough to continue lighting the path forward. Together, we will continue our drive to bet on each other, we will continue our unending pursuit of building a better community for our children and grandchildren, and we will continue building a city that truly works for all of us,” said Mayor Carter.

Mayor Carter discussed the city’s investments in its police department, which has led to less force across the board, fewer officer and civilian injuries, and a clear higher percentage of violent crimes with an arrest. He also shared how St. Paul plans to continue to work with the Biden Administration, among others, to leverage funding to develop a more comprehensive and data-driven approach to public safety.

Watch Mayor Carter’s address here.

Ruthanne Fuller
Newton, MA

Newton Mayor Ruthanne Fuller delivered her fifth State of the City address outlining the city’s achievements and goals for the future. Her top priorities include green initiatives, education, affordable housing, and infrastructure developments.

“Tonight, I reaffirm my commitment to building a greater, better, more beautiful Newton, and the core to that commitment is the spirit of working together with elected officials, civic organizations, and residents from all of our villages,” Mayor Fuller said. “By finding common cause, we will continue to move Newton forward together.”

Mayor Fuller also shared a few of Newton’s achievements from the last four years, including implementing full-day kindergarten, the city-wide ride service Newton in Motion, the city’s first Climate Action Plan, and their handling of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read Mayor Fuller’s address here.

Mayor Lauren Poe
Gainesville, FL

Gainesville Mayor Lauren Poe delivered his final State of the City address, highlighting the city’s progress over the years and sharing his vision for a more equitable and inclusive city. His top priorities include affordable housing, public transportation, guaranteed income initiatives, climate action, public education, and public safety.

In his remarks, Mayor Poe shared in detail about the city’s comprehensive 10-year plan, Imagine GNV. Imagine GNV centers on equity and aims to create a future city where all people can live, thrive, and reach their full potential, regardless of race, age, gender identity, personal history, or economic background.

“By elevating policies that expand access to affordable homes, quality education, great jobs, a healthy environment, and thriving neighborhoods, we will finally become the nation’s standard-bearer as a fully equitable and inclusive city,” Mayor Poe said.

Watch Mayor Poe’s address here.

Mayor Rosalynn Bliss
Grand Rapids, MI

Grand Rapids Mayor Rosalynn Bliss gave her State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s progress over the past year and her goals for the future. Her top priorities include public safety, housing, economic opportunity, investing in place, sustainability, and climate action.

“We have a once-in-a-generation opportunity to do things differently to make significant, catalytic investments, and we are working to maximize this moment,” Mayor Bliss said. “Together, we are building a foundation that will deliver far-reaching benefits for years to come. Now we must keep moving forward.”

Mayor Bliss also spoke about the city’s efforts to improve public safety through retraining officers in neighborhood policing, improving recruitment efforts, and establishing a Cure Violence prevention and intervention program. 

Watch Mayor Bliss’ address here.

Mayor Steven Fulop
Jersey City, NJ

Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop delivered his State of the City address, highlighting his accomplishments over the past few years and several initiatives he is pursuing this year. Mayor Fulop’s top priorities include increasing public spaces, climate action, public safety, affordable housing, and the arts. 

A particular initiative of interest to Mayor Fulop is his participatory budgeting pilot program, which directly involves residents in the city’s spending decisions. This pilot program aims to make the budgeting process more transparent while increasing community involvement in meaningful infrastructure projects. 
 
“I’m extremely grateful for each and every resident, every business owner, and community partner. Your perseverance and commitment to continued progress has never wavered,” Mayor Fulop said. “Action ignites momentum, and we have kept our foot on the gas to accelerate our progress as a city, despite the many roadblocks thrown in our path.”

Watch Mayor Fulop’s address here.

Mayor Ken Miyagishima
Las Cruces, NM

Las Cruces Mayor Ken Miyagishima gave his State of the City address, where he shared his goals and vision for city government in 2022. Mayor Miyagishima’s top priorities include clean energy initiatives, public safety, and affordable housing.

“The world is changing quickly and unlikely to slow down. Fortunately, we enjoy a commitment to one another and a vision for the city, a faith in our abilities and best intentions, and a record of shared effort and success. That’s why the state of our city is strong,” said Mayor Miyagishima.

In his remarks, the Mayor shared how the city has taken great strides in advancing clean energy programs such as enacting an electric vehicle policy for the city’s fleet and requiring zero-carbon energy for new buildings owned or subsidized by the city. 

Watch Mayor Miyagishima’s address here.

Mayor Andy Schor
Lansing, MI

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor gave his State of the City address, focusing on the theme of “Lansing’s Time is Now” and how the city plans to move forward from the COVID-19 pandemic. Mayor Schor’s top priorities include economic development, public safety, investing in Lansing’s youth, affordable housing, and equity. 

In Mayor Schor’s remarks, he shared about the city’s new General Motors battery plant, which will create over 1,700 new jobs and bring an investment of more than $2.6 billion to the city focusing on electric vehicle development. 

“Lansing’s Time is Now, and I assure you that if we keep working together, the state of our city will continue to be stronger tomorrow than it was yesterday,” said Mayor Schor. 

Watch Mayor Schor’s address here.

Mayor Victoria Woodards
Tacoma, WA

Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards delivered her State of the City address, centering her remarks on the theme “Stronger: Many Voices, One Community,” reflecting on the city’s challenges and its path forward. Her top priorities include public safety, COVID-19 recovery, economic development, affordable housing, and homelessness.

“While I have said many times tonight that the solutions are neither straightforward or quick, together I know we will continue to press in the direction of progress in our work to uplift, protect, shelter, and support every member of our community,” said Mayor Woodards.

Mayor Woodards addressed the city’s efforts to help residents with rising housing costs through rental and utility assistance, increasing shelter bed capacity, and investing millions, including funding from the American Rescue Plan Act toward housing and homelessness response services.  

Watch the Mayor’s speech here.

Mayor Mike Duggan
Detroit, MI

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan delivered his ninth State of the City address, highlighting the city’s progress and the work that remains for the future. Mayor Duggan’s top priorities include blight, education, affordable housing, Black-led development, economic development, and job creation.

In his remarks, Mayor Duggan emphasized the importance of increasing educational opportunities for all residents through programs such as Learn to Earn, which pays residents to get their GED or complete work-study programs funded by an influx of ARPA dollars. The Mayor also shared other programs to support education like Detroit Promise and Detroit at Work.

“We want a city where not just every neighborhood has a future but a city where every Detroiter has a future,” said Mayor Duggan. 

Watch Mayor Duggan’s address here.

Mayor London Breed
San Francisco, CA

San Francisco Mayor London Breed, in her State of the City address, shared the city’s challenges and accomplishments from the past year while looking toward the many opportunities in the future. Mayor Breed’s top priorities include COVID-19 recovery, public safety, housing, jobs, environmental justice, economic development, and the city’s youth. 

“It’s time to open up our eyes. To see not just the challenges we face but the opportunities before us. To feel the pride in what our City has done and can do,” said Mayor Breed. “It’s up to each of us to harness that pride and be motivated by it to make decisions in City Hall. To take action in our community. To tell our stories.”

In her remarks, Mayor Breed spoke about the challenges related to public safety and the city’s efforts to overcome them through alternatives to policing such as their Street Crisis Response Team, Community Ambassadors program, and the Dream Keeper Initiative and Opportunities for All. 

Watch Mayor Breed’s speech here.

Mayor Ravi Bhalla 
Hoboken, NJ

Hoboken Mayor Ravi Bhalla delivered his third State of the City address, highlighting many initiatives that will improve the quality of life for residents. Mayor Bhalla’s top priorities include public safety, climate action, infrastructure development, housing, and increasing open spaces. 

In Mayor Bhalla’s remarks, he shared the city’s work with its Vision Zero campaign to achieve zero traffic-related deaths and injuries by 2030. Since launching the program, Hoboken has had zero traffic-related fatalities and seen a 40% reduction in injuries, becoming a national model for eliminating traffic-related deaths in the U.S.

“But despite the difficulties brought by the pandemic, we’ve also seen the very best in Hoboken,” said Mayor Bhalla. “And thanks to the compassion of our community, we faced our challenges head-on together. I’m proud to say that the pandemic reaffirmed my faith in the residents of Hoboken as resilient, strong, and loving to their neighbors.”

Watch Mayor Bhalla’s address here.

Mayor Farrah N. Khan
Irvine, CA

Irvine Mayor Farrah N. Khan gave her State of the City address reflecting on the healing, recovery, and growth her city has experienced over the past year and her vision for its future. Mayor Khan’s top priorities include diversity and inclusion initiatives, affordable housing, economic and workforce development, and sustainability. 

“So now, in 2022, Irvine is faced with the opportunity to show once again that the foundational principles upon which our community was founded still hold true. That through intelligent design; through an embrace of change; through the hard work of our people; we will continue to be one of the best cities to live, work, and play in.”

In her address, Mayor Khan discussed how Irvine aims to balance development and the natural environment and has formed a Community Choice Energy initiative to give residents clean energy choices and reduce greenhouse gas emissions. 

Watch Mayor Khan’s address here.

Mayor Luke Bronin
Hartford, CT

Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin delivered his seventh State of the City address, focusing on the city’s plans to rebuild from the pandemic using American Rescue Plan Act funding. His top priorities include providing more youth support services, investing in community safety and wellness programs, and helping small businesses.

Mayor Bronin shared several initiatives the city plans to support, such as the Hartford Youth Service Corps, community safety programs, downtown revitalization projects, homeownership opportunities, and expanding the Parkville Market for more economic and workforce development opportunities.

“We also want to make sure that we are making investments that allow us to get the benefit of these resources for years and years to come,” said Mayor Bronin. “So we can see and feel the difference, even after the dollars are gone. And to do that, we can do things like fixing up blighted buildings, activating vacant lots around our city, pursuing neighborhood projects that have been long sought.”

Watch Mayor Bronin’s address here.

Mayor Andrew Ginther
Columbus, OH

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther presented his State of the City address, sharing the city’s equity agenda “Opportunity Rising,” which focuses on health and wellbeing, safe and resilient communities, and economic stability. Mayor Ginther’s top priorities are public safety, affordable housing, early childhood education and care, job creation, and climate action.

“We’re pressing forward, together, having found new and powerful ways to collaborate, united in a shared effort to eliminate the injustices and inequities that have held back far too many for far too long,” said Mayor Ginther. “We are breaking down every barrier, opening every door, and building the city we want – and deserve – by amplifying equity, resiliency, and excellence.”

To address the recent surge in violence, Mayor Ginther shared how Columbus is directing $660 million in the budget to advance neighborhood safety initiatives. These include the Right Response Unit, VOICE program at hospitals, ReRoute, the Group Violence Intervention initiative, and increasing police recruit classes. 

Watch Mayor Ginther’s address here.

Mayor Sharetta Smith
Lima, OH

Lima Mayor Sharetta Smith delivered her first State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s progress over the past few years and her vision for the future. Mayor Smith’s top priorities are housing, neighborhood stability, economic development, public safety, students, working families, and city services. 

Mayor Smith shared plans to expand affordable housing units, increase wages for first responders, provide more support services for youth, repair city infrastructure, and assist working families through workforce development.

“This work is hard — some of it, really hard — but we love this place too much to sit on the sidelines. And we are committed to a bold, transformative vision for the future and are willing to take risks necessary so that every Lima resident in every neighborhood can — and must — benefit from what I believe will be a better Lima,” said Mayor Smith. 
 

Watch Mayor Smith’s address here.

Mayor Ras Baraka
Newark, NJ

Newark Mayor Ras Baraka presented his eighth State of the City address, centering his remarks on the theme of “Newark Forward” while sharing the city’s accomplishments over the years. His top priorities include public safety, economic and workforce development, housing, and COVID-19 recovery.

“We are here to say that our families are strong and our city is growing. That we have not run from any of our problems, that we have faced them down, and are changing our trajectory one day at a time. We are proud from where we have come and are confident in our road ahead,” said Mayor Baraka.

Mayor Baraka highlighted the city's many accomplishments over the past year, including lowering unemployment, reducing homicides and crime rates, building a full-service homeless shelter, forming an Equitable Growth Commission, investing $20 million in low-income housing, and expanding access to broadband and wifi to more residents. 

Watch Mayor Baraka’s address here.

Mayor Joyce Craig
Manchester, NH

Manchester Mayor Joyce Craig delivered her State of the City address, outlining the work that has been done over the past year and upcoming initiatives. Mayor Craig’s top priorities are education, public transportation, economic development, climate action, public safety, and affordable housing.

Mayor Craig shared the city’s plans to launch The Manchester Promise program, which will enable public school students who have been negatively impacted by COVID-19 and who usually wouldn’t have the opportunity, to attend college debt-free. 

“All of these initiatives, all of these accomplishments, are the result of our city coming together to create positive change. We’re able to take bold ideas and make them a reality because of the dedication of our community,” said Mayor Craig.

Read more about Mayor Craig’s address here.

Mayor Frank Scott, Jr.
Little Rock, AR

Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. delivered his State of the City address, centering his remarks on the theme of “Growing Forward” and highlighting improvements over the past year. Mayor Scott’s top priorities are public safety, education, affordable housing, infrastructure, sustainability, and economic and workforce development. 

In his remarks, Mayor Scott discussed addressing community violence holistically to reduce it for generations to come. He plans to approach this by proposing raises for entry-level police, increasing staffing in emergency communications, assigning additional officers, and working toward having more officers live in the communities they serve. 

“Little Rock, together we have experienced historic jobs growth, overcome disasters, improved quality of life for all, invested in education, sacrificed for each other’s safety, and we are continuing this work we started three years ago to serve ALL of Little Rock,” said Mayor Scott. 

Watch Mayor Scott’s address here.

Mayor Emily Larson
Duluth, MN

Duluth Mayor Emily Larson gave her State of the City address, focusing her remarks on the theme of “Lighting the Path Forward” and sharing her vision for the future. Mayor Larson’s top priorities are economic development, public safety, connectivity, and sustainability.

“There have been so many long and dark nights these past few years, but the light is peeking through. The hope of dawn is before us – waiting for us to step forth. This is my commitment to you and my challenge for us: Be brave. Be bold enough to find the light. Courageous enough to follow it. Brave enough to be it,” said Mayor Larson. 

Mayor Larson discussed taking on Duluth’s digital divide, noting that only 6% of households have high-speed internet options. She shared her goal that every resident and business will have access to affordable, reliable, high-quality fiber-optic internet in six years. 

Watch Mayor Larson’s address here.

Mayor Allen Joines
Winston-Salem, NC

Winston-Salem Mayor Allen Joines delivered his State of the City address, sharing that the city has faired well despite pandemic challenges and has seen a recent surge in economic and workforce growth. Mayor Joines' top priorities include homelessness, affordable housing, poverty, public safety, economic and workforce development.

In his remarks, Mayor Joines shared that the city’s net job growth was 3.5%, the third-highest in the Southeast. He further noted that Winston-Salem was tied with other major Southern cities in the percentage increase of new business startups. 

“I believe the state of Winston-Salem is very positive, is very strong, and going in the right direction,” said Mayor Joines.

Watch Mayor Joines’ address here.
 

Mayor Kate Gallego
Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego delivered her third State of the City address, centering her remarks on “Phoenix is rising…again”, highlighting the city’s accomplishments over the past year and upcoming initiatives. Mayor Gallego’s top priorities include public safety, affordable housing, education, healthcare, and economic and workforce development. 

“We are a center of business innovation and worldwide influence. We are compassionate, yet we are doing what’s necessary to enforce the law and keep our people safe. We are creating opportunity, whether it’s in education, housing, or building a leading-edge career,” said Mayor Gallego.

In her remarks, Mayor Gallego shared how the city won a $1 million award for its Mobile Career Unit, which helps residents access job opportunities. She also discussed public safety efforts, such as expanding funding for their Community Assistance Program and increasing wages for police officers. 

Watch Mayor Gallego’s address here.

Mayor Brandon M. Scott
Baltimore, MD

Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott delivered his State of the City address, reflecting on the pandemic, the significance of the American Rescue Plan, and future initiatives. Mayor Scott’s top priorities include public safety, youth, neighborhood development, pay equity, and clean and healthy communities.

Mayor Scott spoke about the city’s public safety and violence prevention efforts, noting that Baltimore is reimaging their policing strategy. A key element of his strategy is ensuring the city’s actions are collaborative and connect residents to the resources they need, such as the Community Violence Intervention Ecosystem, which will offer wraparound services for crime victims. 

“Baltimore, we are on the cusp of a long-overdue renaissance, and we are doing the work to ensure that it happens not just for us but for the generations to come. But we still have so much to do, and I am committed to seeing this work through to completion,” said Mayor Scott.

Watch Mayor Scott’s address here.

Mayor Miro Weinberger
Burlington, VT

Burlington Mayor Miro Weinberger delivered his State of the City address, highlighting how the city remains strong and improves each day as the community works together to recover from the pandemic. Mayor Weinberger’s top priorities are economic recovery, children and families, racial equity and justice, infrastructure, housing, public safety, and the climate emergency.

Mayor Weinberger shared the city’s efforts to address the climate emergency, with electrification being the centerpiece for Burlington’s Net Zero Energy Roadmap. He shared initiatives like the Green Stimulus incentive, the Net Zero Energy Revenue Bond, and updating the municipal electric utility approach to help move the city’s net-zero energy goals forward.

“Today, there is no doubt that the last two years have set us back in many critical areas, and that we are going to have to earn our way back to the general prosperity much of this community was experiencing before the pandemic,” said Mayor Weinberger. “We are going to have to call on the same compassion, collaboration, and innovation that we found in us collectively to make it through the pandemic to forge a broad, sustained community revival.”

Watch Mayor Weinberger’s address here. 

Mayor Andre Dickens
Atlanta, GA

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens delivered his first State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s history and his vision for its future. Mayor Dickens’ top priorities are public safety, infrastructure, youth, affordable housing, green spaces, small businesses, and early childhood education. 

In his remarks, Mayor Dickens shared public safety initiatives his office is pursuing and their work with small businesses, faith-based organizations, Atlanta’s Police Department, first responders, and youth. He also shared about the city’s new Nightlight Division to help businesses with a history of crime by educating them on de-escalating violent altercations, security training, and emergency response. 

“One City with One bright future. A city of safe, healthy, connected neighborhoods with an expansive culture of equity, empowering upward mobility and full participation for all residents, embracing youth development, and an innovative, dependable government moving Atlanta forward. Together,” said Mayor Dickens. 

Watch Mayor Dickens’ address here.

Mayor Breea Clark
Norman, OK

Norman Mayor Breea Clark delivered her State of the City address, highlighting the many accomplishments the city has achieved during the pandemic and upcoming initiatives. Mayor Clark’s top priorities are infrastructure, affordable housing, parks and rec, arts and tourism, public health and safety, diversity, equity, and inclusion.

In her remarks, Mayor Clark noted the many accomplishments the city has achieved over the past year ranging from communication efforts to public works to healthcare to the economy. Specifically, she noted the city’s public safety efforts by sharing plans to build a new emergency and communications center, restructuring the police department, and gaining exceptional ratings for their fire department.

“We live in a great city, friends. Not because we don’t have problems, but because we don’t run from them. Because we learn from them. We collaborate and create and turn problems into opportunities to be better than we were the day before. Often we lead the way and set the bar for excellence in Oklahoma. Some would call us troublemakers, but I call us trailblazers,” said Mayor Clark. 

Watch Mayor Clark’s speech here.

Mayor Eric Garcetti
Los Angeles, CA

Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti delivered his final State of the City address, reflecting on his tenure in office and his vision for the city as he completes his term. As he ends his time in office, Mayor Garcetti's top priorities are public safety, affordable housing, climate action, and a clean and healthy city. 

​​“The only legacy I want you to know is that I deeply, deeply love this city, and that I served for two decades to make it better, to give you and L.A. everything I have,” said Mayor Garcetti. 

Mayor Garcetti highlighted a new $21 million Climate Equity Fund, focusing efforts on low-income neighborhoods with disproportionate environmental burdens. The fund will train residents to retrofit community-serving buildings, distribute air purifiers to tackle pollution and provide new insulation and cool roofs in low-income communities with the highest heat indexes. 

Watch Mayor Garcetti’s address here. 

Mayor Justin M.  Bibb
Cleveland, OH

Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb delivered his first State of the City address highlighting his first 100 days in office, noting that Cleveland is a “land on the rise.” Mayor Bibb’s top priorities are public safety, healthy communities and environments, improving education and youth opportunities, placing equity in action, promoting talent and culture, leading inclusive economic development and growth in neighborhoods, and modernizing City Hall. 

Beyond the first 100 days, the Bibb Administration is focused on targeted investments in the southeast side, effectively using American Rescue Plan dollars, protecting renters & tenants from out-of-state investors, updating the city’s Climate Action Plan, and implementing a 15-minute city framework. 

“In the first 100 days of my administration, we have shown that you can accelerate the pace of change in government with a clear set of priorities, the right people, and the political will to see it through and get it done,” said Mayor Bibb.  

Watch Mayor Bibb’s address here.

Mayor Patrick J. Furey
Torrance, CA 

Torrance Mayor Patrick J. Furey delivered his eighth and final State of the City address, noting the many accomplishments throughout his tenure and the community's perseverance during the pandemic. As he concludes his term, Mayor Furey's top priorities are economic and workforce development, public safety, youth, city services, climate action, infrastructure, and homelessness. 

Mayor Furey shared that the city will be introducing all-electric buses to its fleet this year in addition to zero-emission, rubber wheel trolleys to serve regions where buses aren't able to navigate. These new improvements will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and enhance the community's existing network of transit options. 

“Every successful community has its own strengths and weaknesses, but they all share some common characteristics. It’s clear for instance that successful communities involve a broad cross-section of residents in determining and planning the future. They also capitalize on their distinctive assets – their architecture, history, natural surroundings, and home-grown businesses – rather than trying to adopt a new and different identity,” said Mayor Furey.  

Watch Mayor Furey’s address here.

Mayor Meghan F. George
Lakewood, OH

Lakewood Mayor Meghan F. George delivered her State of the City address, reflecting on the community's resiliency and the significant impact of federal relief funds on the city’s recovery from the pandemic. Mayor George’s top priorities include infrastructure improvements, public safety, small businesses, and affordability. 

In her remarks, Mayor George spoke about using federal relief funds to address key municipal challenges such as homelessness prevention, residential rent relief, and small business assistance. She also shared about using ARPA funds to manage infrastructure costs which reduced previously approved rate increases and ultimately put money back into the pockets of residents. 

“As I stand before you all today, it has been my honor to share that the state of our city is strong, it is resilient, and we are proud of how we have come through this challenging time,” Mayor George said. “But we know we will always have more work to do to keep Lakewood vital and healthy.

Watch Mayor George’s address here.

Mayor Tishaura O. Jones
St. Louis, MO

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones gave her State of the City address, stating that the city is on the precipice of change as unprecedented federal resources flow into the community that will impact generations to come. Mayor Jones’ top priorities include gun violence, affordable housing, jobs, small businesses, transportation, a guaranteed income program, and competitive wages for city employees. 

“From Baden to Boulevard Heights, from Dogtown to Downtown to Dutchtown, whether you voted for me or not, or you didn’t vote at all - I am proud to be your mayor. I enter Room 200, a leader, for 79 unique, distinct neighborhoods, every single day working to make St. Louis a safer, more prosperous place - no matter the color of your skin, where you live, or any identity you hold,” said Mayor Jones.

Mayor Jones has proposed a historic $150 million commitment to North St. Louis through remaining American Rescue Plan funds to help bridge the racial wealth gap and move the city toward economic justice. She noted this could address revitalizing neighborhoods, assisting small businesses, creating good-paying jobs, helping with housing projects, or expanding affordable childcare options.

Watch Mayor Jones’ address here.

Mayor Lacey Beaty
Beaverton, OR

Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty delivered her State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s resilience throughout the pandemic and her vision for its future. Mayor Beaty’s top priorities are climate action, affordable housing, public safety, behavioral health services, childcare, broadband access, economic development, and work flexibility. 

“I’ve been impressed by the resilience of Beavertonians. And I love hearing about the community coming together to help one another survive. This is so necessary! But also. We’ve done enough surviving. It’s time to thrive,” said Mayor Beaty. 

In her remarks, Mayor Beaty shared the city’s plans to address affordable housing needs by using ARPA funds in various projects. She stated that the city plans to not just focus on renters but help residents become homeowners to help stabilize more families and build their generational wealth. 

Watch Mayor Beaty’s address here. 

Mayor Elaine O’Neal
Durham, NC

Durham Mayor Elaine O'Neal delivered her first State of the City address, reviewing the city's current state and her plans to help the community overcome its most pressing challenges. Mayor O'Neal's top priorities are safe neighborhoods, affordable housing, infrastructure, public health, and small businesses. 

Mayor O'Neal spoke about reducing gun violence, noting that prevention requires collaboration from community organizations, law enforcement, business owners, educators, government, faith communities, families, health care, and more to coordinate solutions. Some of these solutions include piloting new approaches to traditional police response, reconvening the Durham Crime Cabinet, and increasing pay for police officers.

“We are the BULL CITY. We can become the quilt covering the city we all love by working together. Let us all continue to work together to ensure that Durham is a city for everyone. United. I am pleased to say tonight that the state of the BULL CITY IS STRONG and getting stronger,” said Mayor O’Neal.

Watch Mayor O’Neal’s address here.

Mayor Indya Kincannon
 Knoxville, TN

Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon presented her State of the City address and budget proposal, sharing the city’s challenges and how it has remained strong due to the hard work and collaboration of community partners and city employees. Mayor Kincannon’s top priorities are competitive wages for city workers, improving parks, infrastructure development, affordable housing, mental health services, public safety, and broadband access. 

In her remarks, Mayor Kincannon discussed creating the city’s Office of Community Safety to address violent crime, starting a CrimeStoppers tip line program, and working with nonprofits to train and equip teams of street violence interrupters. She also noted plans to bring employee pay up to fair market rates by including $16 million in the upcoming budget to make wages competitive. 

“We have had an incredibly challenging 2.5 years. But Knoxville is resilient. And through it all, we have stayed true to our mission and values.  Because of that, we have a lot to celebrate today,” said Mayor Kincannon.

Watch Mayor Kincannon’s address here. 

Mayor Eric Adams 
New York, NY

New York City Mayor Eric Adams outlined his bold vision for the city in his first State of the City address and reflected on achievements made during his first 100 days in office. Mayor Adams’ top priorities include creating a safer and more just city, promoting an equitable recovery, lifting up youth, and investing in a 21st-century infrastructure. 

In his remarks, Mayor Adams spoke about public safety efforts such as collaborating with President Biden, Governor Hochul, and law enforcement to remove illegal guns and stop repeat offenders. He also shared plans to expand the city’s Behavioral Health Emergency Assistance Response Division, which sends EMTs and mental health professionals to respond to emergency calls involving mental health issues. 

“As we look toward the future, our administration will build on the achievements of our first 100 days and continue to ‘Get Stuff Done’ for everyday New Yorkers. The bold agenda we are laying out will address the city’s overlapping crises with upstream investments focused on a safer, healthier, and more prosperous future for all of us. We are ready to start a new, hopeful chapter in New York City history, and we will do it together,”  said Mayor Adams.

Watch Mayor Adams’ address here.

Mayor John Cooper 
Nashville, TN

Nashville Mayor John Cooper delivered his State of the Metro address,  laying out his vision for the city’s future, its policy agenda, and budget priorities for the next year. Mayor Cooper’s top priorities are investing in youth education, keeping neighborhoods safe, building and preserving affordable housing, addressing homelessness, improving the city’s essential services, and creating a greener and more sustainable city.  

Mayor Cooper discussed efforts to address affordable housing needs by investing in what works, increasing staffing to meet the challenge, and innovating through new approaches. These efforts also include using American Rescue Plan funding to increase the city’s affordable housing budget and a new $50 million commitment to help its most vulnerable residents get off the streets and into housing.

“Good schools, clean streets, safe neighborhoods, reliable city services, affordable housing, world-class parks, live-work-play communities to raise a family in. That is Nashville,” said Mayor Cooper. “As we grow, we must do so in a way that works for every neighborhood, and make sure no one gets left behind. That requires investing alongside our growth and innovating to keep pace with the challenges presented by the growth. That is our vision.”

Watch Mayor Cooper’s address here.

Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui
Cambridge, MA

Cambridge Mayor Sumbul Siddiqui used her State of the City address to highlight her Administration’s work and priority areas for the coming year. Mayor Siddiqui’s top priorities are gun violence, affordable housing, homelessness, equitable education, climate action, and the RISE direct cash assistance program. 

“The state of the city is strong, resilient, and a work in progress. Let’s celebrate all we have accomplished in the face of adversity and the ways in which Cambridge continues to lead. And let’s not rest while inequities persist,” said Mayor Siddiqui.

Mayor Siddiqui shared plans to expand the RISE program with $22 million in funding from the American Rescue Plan, which will help more residents recover from the pandemic and address inequities. The program will provide $500 a month for approximately a year and a half to every family under the federal poverty level in Cambridge, making it the first program of its kind to assist every eligible family. 

Watch Mayor Siddiqui’s address here.

Mayor Jacob Frey
Minneapolis, MN

Minneapolis Mayor Jacob Frey delivered his State of the City address, sharing the structural changes underway in the city and his plans for the remaining $43 million in American Rescue Plan funding. Mayor Frey’s top priorities include economic recovery, affordable housing and homelessness, community safety, climate action, and public health. 

“This spring season has cast a new light across our city, bringing with it a palpable renewed sense of hope and optimism. From meetings in City Hall to conversations at the many groundbreakings and ribbon cuttings, I’m struck by a newfound sense of purpose and focus, a resolve to attack the day with purpose. In Minneapolis, we’re coming back,” said Mayor Frey.

Mayor Frey’s American Rescue Plan proposal highlights housing initiatives like NOAH Preservation and Minneapolis Homes and public safety efforts such as MinneapolUS Strategic Outreach and expanding police department technology systems. Other investments include eliminating childhood lead poisoning, planting trees to support the city’s climate resiliency, and mental health support for city employees.

Watch Mayor Frey’s address here.

Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard
Mount Vernon, NY

Mount Vernon Mayor Shawyn Patterson-Howard delivered her third State of the City address, sharing plans to tackle the city’s challenges head-on and her vision for its future. Her top priorities include infrastructure, public safety, economic development, and city services. 

In her remarks, Mayor Patterson-Howard discussed improving public safety efforts through the Mount Vernon Youth Court, increasing surveillance technology systems, investing in new hires, creating a Wellness Division, and updating new equipment. These efforts and more have led to the city’s crime decreasing by 14.2% from the previous year and the police department recovering 102 guns since 2020. 

“So, as we said in the beginning, we are not running from our challenges, we are very clear of what they are, but we cannot ignore the progress we are making, the investments we are securing, the relationships that we are building, the credibility that we are restoring, and the hope that we are regaining. It may not happen as fast as we want, but we are moving forward together,” said Mayor Patterson-Howard.

Watch Mayor Patterson-Howard’s address here.

Mayor Ted Wheeler 
Portland, OR

Portland Mayor Ted Wheeler gave his State of the City address, presenting his vision to improve the city through lenses of equity, climate goals, and a high-performance government. Mayor Wheeler’s top priorities are community safety, homelessness, affordable housing, improving livability, and economic recovery. 

“We are making progress but have much more work to do – and we are making the investments, combined with common sense leadership actions, to do it,” said Mayor Wheeler. “Together, we are beginning to bring back the parts of Portland that we love. And together we will change the things that need changing.”

Mayor Wheeler discussed efforts to help the city’s unhoused community through various emergency orders and established a Street Services Coordination Center to improve and centralize homeless services. He also shared his “Refocus, Reform, and Restaff” community safety plan, which includes new investments in the city’s crisis prevention and intervention programs. 

Watch Mayor Wheeler’s address here.

Mayor Jane Castor
Tampa, FL

Tampa Mayor Jane Castor delivered her State of the City address, providing updates on the city’s successes, challenges, and plans for the future. Mayor Castor’s top priorities are infrastructure, water, housing, transportation, workforce development, and quality of life. 

In her remarks, Mayor Castor discussed alleviating Tampa’s housing crisis by addressing the problem with community partners. Mayor Castor shared some of the city's current plans, including creating 10,000 affordable housing units, helping residents with rental/mortgage assistance, and appropriating over $100 million, including $16 million in ARPA dollars, toward housing-related funding. 

“I can unequivocally say that the state of the city of Tampa is extraordinarily strong because the soul of our city is our people.  Over the past three years, we came together and proved our resilience. Together, we not only overcame some of the greatest challenges we will ever experience, but we have thrived,” said Mayor Castor.

Watch the Mayor Castor’s address here. 

Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz 
Toledo, OH

Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz gave his State of the City address titled 'For the Betterment of Toledo,' highlighting the city's growth and goals for 2022. Some of Mayor Kapszukiewicz's top priorities include public safety, affordable housing, improving city parks, universal pre-K and workforce, and economic development. 

Mayor Kapszukiewicz shared the city's plans for its ARPA dollars through the Toledo Recovery Plan, which prioritizes safe and livable neighborhoods, youth recreation and parks, job creation and economic impact, avoiding cuts to city services, and green and healthy housing. Through this plan, the city will add 100 new police officers, expand youth programming and mentoring, replace lead service lines, construct 600 new housing units, fight blight, plant trees, and more. 

“We have faced adversity before in this city, and we’ve always bounced back. Sure, we’ve been knocked down. If there is anything good about being knocked down as often as we have, is that we know how to get back up. We know how to dust ourselves off and fight back. There is a togetherness in this city that most other communities don’t have,” said Mayor Kapszukiewicz.

Watch Mayor Kapszukiewicz’s address here.

Mayor Lauren McLean 
Boise, ID

Boise Mayor Lauren McLean delivered her third State of the City address, focusing on how Boiseans can come together to overcome their challenges and use them as opportunities to create a shared vision for the city’s future. Mayor McLean’s top priorities are cost of living, affordable childcare, affordable housing, homelessness, public safety, infrastructure, and climate action.

In her remarks, Mayor McLean emphasized the importance of ensuring that there are homes for every resident and finding innovative ways to sustain housing and support families. Mayor McLean shared she is directing $12 million in recovery funds to create and preserve affordable housing. The city also remains on target to produce 1,250 affordable homes by 2026, including building 250 houses for individuals exiting homelessness. 

“Boise continues to change, but change doesn’t have to be something that’s ‘happening to us.’ Together, we can shape this change,” said Mayor McLean. “We must seize the opportunity in this pivotal moment. And we’ll succeed because we put people first, try all solutions, and do what must be done.”

Watch Mayor McLean’s address here.

Mayor Darrell Steinberg
Sacramento, CA

Sacramento Mayor Darrell Steinberg delivered his State of the City address, sharing his vision for the coming decades with an emphasis on investments for Sacramento’s youth.

Mayor Steinberg noted that the cost of youth recreational activities had increased significantly and, in return, made the programs less feasible for youth who need them the most. To combat these challenges and increase access to programming, he is proposing the City council put forth an initiative on the upcoming ballot to include $10 to $12 million a year for Sacramento’s youth.

“If there is one area where our consistent focus, attention, creativity, and resources today will matter the most in 2032 and 2042, it can be distilled with this credo: intersect every other city priority and agenda with empowering young people,” said Mayor Steinberg.

He is also proposing a plan to bring a state-of-the-art $50 million sports complex to South Sacramento, which will help support kids and expand the city’s tourism efforts.

Watch Mayor Steinberg’s address here.

Mayor Hardie Davis, Jr.
Augusta, GA

Augusta Mayor Hardie Davis, Jr. delivered his final State of the City address, reflecting on his tenure in office and accomplishments throughout his two terms.

In his remarks, Mayor Davis highlighted his work in leading the city through its COVID-19 response efforts, increasing the government minimum wage to $15 an hour, and investing $87 billion in infrastructure projects.

“We’re no longer a city filled with potential – we’re a city bursting with opportunity; a city built to last; a city built Augusta-strong,” said Mayor Davis.

Mayor Davis also highlighted several sustainability initiatives, including installing three solar farms on city properties, installing electric vehicle charging stations, and committing to converting 15% to 20% of the city’s non-emergency fleet to low or zero-emission by 2030.

“The state of our Augusta is strong, and the road ahead is brighter than it has ever been,” said Mayor Davis.

Read more about Mayor Davis’ address here.

Mayor Tim Keller
Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller delivered his State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s response to deep challenges and his work to move the community toward a brighter horizon. Mayor Keller’s top priorities include public safety, programs for youth and families, downtown revitalization, housing and homelessness solutions, equity and inclusion, economic development, and sustainability.

Mayor Keller shared efforts to combat rising crime, including the city-led Metro Crime Initiative, which convenes leaders from all levels of government, the criminal justice system, and the community to break down silos and fix problems that have hindered public safety. Other efforts include taking new steps in the DOJ Reform process and having the Albuquerque Community Safety Department respond to non-violent calls to help with limited police and fire resources.

“The real state of the city is a city holding the line, during some of our most difficult times. A city that has not, and will not, stop advancing toward a horizon that brings out the best in Burque. On our horizon is a city that is growing, and that has more opportunities for our children each year, a city that is safe, and sustainable,” said Mayor Keller.

Watch Mayor Keller’s address here.

Mayor Michael B. Hancock
Denver, CO

Denver Mayor Michael B. Hancock delivered his final State of the City address, reflecting on his tenure and roadmap for the year ahead to ensure the city remains a place of justice and opportunity for all. Mayor Hancock’s top priorities include housing, economic development, climate justice, better policing, reducing gun violence, fighting fentanyl, and investing in Denver’s youth. 

“The State of our city, recognizing what we’ve come through, is a city in motion. A city in pursuit of justice and opportunity, a city determined to lift up all our residents. Leaning on those words from Dr. King, I know that if we continue to pursue justice, Denver will remain one of the best cities in America,” said Mayor Hancock.

Since taking office in 2011, Mayor Hancock’s administration has helped rehouse more than 13,000 individuals experiencing homelessness and created or preserved nearly 9,000 affordable homes. Additionally, they have made strides in youth opportunities by making recreation centers free for every child, expanding the city’s preschool program, and establishing the Prosperity Denver Fund to help every child who wants to attend college attain that dream. 

Read and watch Mayor Hancock’s full address here.

Mayor Steve Adler
Austin, TX

Austin Mayor Steve Adler delivered his final State of the City address, highlighting the city’s progress over the years and his roadmap for the months ahead to continue making Austin a more just and inclusive community for all. His top priorities include mobility and transit, social justice and equity, housing and homelessness, and climate change mitigation.

“If we retreat from the progress we have made or if we don’t confront and own our most serious challenges - if we nibble at problems, rather than facing them head on; if we shy away from the cost and conflict and disruption that attend anything important enough to be worth doing - we imperil the future we seek,” said Mayor Adler.

Since taking office in 2015, Mayor Adler’s administration has prioritized mobility for all residents through projects such as Project Connect, a public mass transit system; expanding Austin’s airport; redesigning I-35; adopting a Vision Zero plan to reduce traffic fatalities; constructing a 400-mile All Ages and Abilities Bicycle Network, and more.

Additional highlights from his tenure as Mayor include raising the minimum wage, launching a guaranteed income pilot program, investing in public health, decriminalizing marijuana and abortion, and reimaging public safety.

Read and watch Mayor Adler’s full address here.

Mayor Sam Liccardo
San José, CA

San José Mayor Sam Liccardo delivered his final State of the City address, highlighting the progress of key initiatives over the past eight years and sharing how the city is preparing for success in the future. Mayor Liccardo’s top priorities include homelessness and affordable housing, water supply, the budget, public safety, environmental sustainability, and children.

“Yet throughout our history, San José has thrived by overcoming temporal myopia, by fixing our focus on the future. Saving for the future. Investing for the future. That is the ethos of the generations of immigrants that have shaped San José’s character: sacrificing in the present–even in the toughest of times–for a better future for our children,” said Mayor Liccardo.

In his address, he shared the city’s progress with housing solutions, including developing interim housing sites, expanding job opportunities for the unhoused, providing more gap financing, accelerating housing construction, and more. Additionally, Mayor Liccardo detailed public safety advancements, such as expanding the police department, restoring community policing programs, deploying behavioral health professionals to better respond to mental health crises, and taking innovative approaches to reduce gun-related deaths.

Watch Mayor Liccardo’s address here.

Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba
Jackson, MS

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba delivered his sixth State of the City address, reflecting on the challenges his community is overcoming and his vision for the future. His priorities include water infrastructure, public safety, affordable housing, early childhood development, eliminating blight, and workforce and economic development.

In his remarks, Mayor Lumumba spoke at length about Jackson’s water infrastructure and his continued engagement with the Biden-Harris Administration, federal officials, residents, and other key stakeholders in creating sustainable solutions for the community. As the city continues to address challenges, he aims to improve resilience and reduce vulnerabilities, apply for capital infrastructure funding, build more internal oversight systems, and evaluate the need for a new water plant, among many goals.

“With every challenge, there is an opportunity, one that requires our collective vision. Jacksonians are resilient, gracious, and strong, and we can move mountains when we pursue the same end,” said Mayor Lumumba.

Mayor Lumumba also highlighted public safety efforts the city is leading, including increased pay for officers, investing in a city-wide camera network, and the opening of a new Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery.

Watch the Mayor’s remarks here.

Mayor Libby Schaaf
Oakland, CA

Oakland Mayor Libby Schaaf delivered her final State of the City address, highlighting the partnerships the city has developed, the city government services and infrastructure that have progressed, and the promises her administration have forged for the future. As she ends her time in office, Mayor Schaaf's top priorities include crime, homelessness, and the cost of living.

Since taking office in 2015, Mayor Schaaf has quadrupled the city's homeless shelter capacity and added more dignified options with new programs and services. Mayor Schaaf also created nearly 20,000 new homes in Oakland during her tenure.

A hallmark of her time in office is the Oakland Promise, a nonprofit that provides college savings accounts for children of low-income families and college scholarships for high school graduates. Recently, the program announced a $50 million fund to serve thousands of students for the next generation.

Read more here.

Mayor Van Johnson
Savannah, GA

At his annual State of the City address, Savannah Mayor Van Johnson presented the city council’s work over the past year and called for unity and civility. In his remarks, Mayor Johnson spoke about several initiatives his administration led, ranging from crime to affordable housing to opening the new Enmarket Arena.

Mayor Johnson also highlighted his administration’s achievements, including raising police salaries, building the arena, and several impactful public safety initiatives. He praised the Summer Fun and Safety program in partnership with the Savannah Police Department for reducing crime and the Office of Neighborhood Safety and Engagement, which aims to reduce violent crime in the community.

Later he shared the potential impacts of the Local Options Sales Tax (LOST), which is going through mediation with the county, noting that if negotiations fail, it will likely result in a property tax increase to make up for tax revenue provided by LOST.

“But we know there’s more ahead to do. And we’re going to be transparent about it. We are faced with a serious and definitive Dec. 31 deadline to negotiate a new distribution agreement between Chatham County and eight municipalities for the local option sales tax,” said Johnson. “Without this funding, Savannah faces a loss of more than $55 million.”

Watch Mayor Johnson’s remarks here.

Mayor Regina Romero
Tucson, AZ

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero delivered her third State of the City address, highlighting the city’s accomplishments from the past year and her vision for the future. Mayor Romero’s top priorities are public safety, affordable housing, climate change, small businesses, infrastructure, and job creation.

In her remarks, she shared how the city distributed $53 million in federal rental assistance funds to help nearly 10,000 residents and used $10 million to convert vacant hotels to transitional low-barrier housing while providing support services for those experiencing homelessness. The Mayor also shared infrastructure updates, highlighting the historic passage of Prop. 411, which will bring $740 million over ten years to fix every residential road and build needed pedestrian and bicycle safety infrastructure for the city.

“I love being your Mayor and am proud of all the work we are doing to benefit every single Tucsonan,” said Mayor Romero. “Working together, we will achieve the just, equitable future we envision, where every single Tucsonan can live their best lives in our beautiful, thriving, resilient city.

Mayor Romero also discussed Tucson’s efforts with climate action, noting the city’s EV roadmap has led the city to have the largest low and no-emission electric bus fleet in the southwest region.

Watch Mayor Romero’s remarks here.

Mayor Eric Johnson
Dallas, TX

Dallas Mayor Eric Johnson delivered his annual State of the City address, highlighting the city’s current state and his bold vision for the future. Mayor Johnson’s top priorities include combatting violent crime, reducing homelessness, expanding green spaces, increasing accountability in city government, and advancing economic and workforce development initiatives.

In his remarks, he noted how the city’s violent crime plan had yielded a 12% reduction in the places where it has been implemented. Mayor Johnson associates this reduction with their “kitchen-sink approach,” which includes increasing officer numbers, his Summer of Safety campaign, tackling blight, and more.

“I can proudly say that the state of our city is stronger than ever and that Dallas is back,” said Mayor Johnson. “We’re back because we continue to focus on our future while building on our past and addressing our challenges.”

Mayor Johnson also shared the city’s continuous efforts to help its unhoused residents by turning hotels into shelters, creating inclement weather spaces, and partnering with nonprofit organizations to assist with rapid rehousing needs.

Watch and read Mayor Johnson’s remarks here.

Mayor Aftab Pureval
Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval gave his first State of the City address, reflecting on the city’s successes over the past year and his plans for the future. His top priorities include affordable housing, economic recovery, workforce development, equity, human services, public safety, and climate action.

Similar to other cities facing a rise in violent crime throughout the pandemic, Cincinnati has stepped up to keep residents safe by investing over $20 million in public safety infrastructure and pursuing gun safety legislation. Mayor Pureval shared other efforts, including removing nearly 1,450 guns off the street, aiding 4,500 survivors of gender-based violence, and improving emergency services with mental health professionals.

“What we all do here, it isn’t just about next year. It isn’t about the next 10 years,” said Mayor Pureval. “We have the power to shape this city’s future for generations to come, and this is the moment when we must step up and take action.”

He also discussed affordable housing initiatives, such as spearheading the creation or renovation of more than 1,000 housing units this year and pushing for more types of housing options in the future.

Watch Mayor Pureval’s remarks here.

Mayor Adrian Perkins
Shreveport, LA

Shreveport Mayor Adrian Perkins gave his second State of the City address, highlighting achievements over the past year and goals for the city’s future. His top priorities include public safety, the economy, the city budget, and technology.

Mayor Perkins shared the city’s new partnership with Caddo Parrish Public Schools to create the Shreveport Early Start initiative, which will help 500 to 600 local families access early childhood education opportunities. The initiative will also help families re-enter the workforce and improve their quality of life.

“Shreveport, let’s reimagine a better future for our children, our families, our friends, our neighbors, by working together to make that a reality,” said Perkins.

He also highlighted how Shreveport is beating national crime trends as overall crime is down 15%, homicides are down 40%, and violent crime is down 22%. Mayor Perkins connects these downward trends to the city’s efforts in re-establishing their community response unit, seizing 800 guns off the street, developing a real-time crime center, expanding mentorship and job opportunities for youth, and more.

Watch the Mayor’s address here.

Mayor Sylvester Turner
Houston, TX

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner delivered his seventh State of the City address, centering his remarks on the theme of “Bridge to the Future,” highlighting key initiatives and partnerships that will lead the community into the future. Mayor Turner’s top priorities include public safety, housing, energy transition, neighborhood revitalization, early childhood education, and building a resilient and smart city.

In his remarks, Mayor Turner shared how the city remains committed to its public safety efforts through the One Safe Houston initiative and how every major crime category is down from last year.

“The best for our city is not yesterday; the best for our city has yet to come,” said Mayor Turner. “I am proud of the work we have done.”

Mayor Turner also highlighted the city’s new food program to help unhoused residents find more permanent supportive housing with Dinner to Home. The initiative combines meals, housing assessments, and supportive services to help residents transition off the streets.

Watch the Mayor’s remarks here.

Mayor LaToya Cantrell
New Orleans, LA

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell delivered her State of the City address, reflecting on the past year managing COVID-19 and her plans for the city’s future in 2023. Mayor Cantrell’s top priorities include public safety, economic and workforce development, climate action, affordable housing and homelessness, and infrastructure.
 
In her remarks, Mayor Cantrell shared that fighting crime remains a top priority for her administration and, through collaborative efforts with the police, has managed to remove nearly 2,500 guns off the street. Additionally, noting that police response times are faster, and crime has decreased in the past year. 
 
“Now is not the time to be derailed, now is the time to keep going,” said Mayor Cantrell. ” And as I’ve always said, I may be the first woman, but I know I will not be the last but let me tell you, the future of our city is watching us now.”
 
Mayor Cantrell also highlighted how the city has added thousands of new jobs over the past year and was named a world leader in energy production.
 
Watch Mayor Cantrell’s remarks here.