2023 State of the City Addresses

• Mayor Sharon Weston Broome - Baton Rouge, LA

• Mayor Todd Gloria - San Diego, CA

• Mayor Gary McCarthy - Schenectady, NY

• Mayor Rex Richardson - Long Beach, CA

• Mayor Randall Woodfin - Birmingham, AL

• Mayor Erin Mendenhall - Salt Lake City, UT

• Mayor Daniella Levine Cava - Miami-Dade County, FL

• Mayor Michelle Wu - Boston, MA

• Mayor Eric Adams - New York, NY

• Mayor Danene Sorace - Lancaster, PA

• Mayor Levar Stoney - Richmond, VA

• Mayor Kathy Sheehan - Albany, NY

• Mayor Steven L. Reed - Montgomery, AL

• Mayor Craig Greenberg - Louisville, KY

• Mayor Jeffrey Mims, Jr. - Dayton, OH

• Mayor London N. Breed - San Francisco, CA

• Mayor Jared Nicholson - Lynn, MA

• Mayor Steve Williams - Huntington, WV

• Mayor Harvey Ward - Gainesville, FL

• Mayor John Hamilton - Bloomington, IN

• Mayor Bruce Harrell - Seattle, WA

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

• Mayor Mike Duggan - Detroit, MI

• Mayor Farrah N. Khan - Irvine, CA

• Mayor Cassie Franklin - Everett, WA

• Mayor Andy Schor - Lansing, MI

• Mayor Victoria Woodards - Tacoma, WA

• Mayor Robert Sullivan - Brockton, MA

• Mayor Andrew Ginther - Columbus, OH

• Mayor Daniel Horrigan - Akron, OH

• Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla - Hoboken, NJ

• Mayor Luke Bronin - Hartford, CT

• Mayor Lacey Beaty - Beaverton, OR

• Mayor Andre Dickens - Atlanta, GA

• Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz - Toledo, OH

• Mayor Nancy Vaughan - Greensboro, NC

• Mayor Kate Gallego - Phoenix, AZ

• Mayor Ron Nirenberg - San Antonio, TX

• Mayor Justin M. Bibb - Cleveland, OH

• Mayor Angela Birney - Redmond, WA

• Mayor Brandon M. Scott - Baltimore, MD

• Mayor Karen Bass - Los Angeles, CA

• Mayor Malik D. Evans - Rochester, NY

• Mayor Elaine O’Neal - Durham, NC

• Mayor Melvin Carter - Saint Paul, MN

• Mayor Alan Webber - Santa Fe, NM

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

• Mayor John Cooper - Nashville, TN

• Mayor Heidi Lueb - Tigard, OR

• Mayor Indya Kincannon - Knoxville, TN

• Mayor Jon Mitchell - New Bedford, MA

• Mayor Caroline Simmons - Stamford, CT

• Mayor Lauren McLean - Boise, ID

• Mayor Tim Keller - Albuquerque, NM

• Mayor Joshua Garcia - Holyoke, MA

• Mayor Buddy Dyer - Orlando, FL

• Mayor Ashleigh Aitken - Anaheim, CA

• Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud - Dearborn, MI

• Mayor Cavalier Johnson - Milwaukee, WI

• Mayor Paige G. Cognetti - Scranton, PA

• Mayor Sherman Lea - Roanoke, VA

• Mayor Melanie Kebler - Bend, OR

• Mayor Sylvester Turner - Houston, TX

• Mayor Dean Trantalis - Fort Lauderdale, FL

• Mayor Sheng Thao - Oakland, CA

• Mayor Matt Mahan - San Jose, CA

• Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba - Jackson, MS

• Mayor Van Johnson - Savannah, GA

• Mayor Quentin Hart - Waterloo, IA

• Mayor Ed Gainey - Pittsburgh, PA

• Mayor Aftab Pureval - Cincinnati, OH

• Mayor Regina Romero - Tucson, AZ

• Mayor LaToya Cantrell - New Orleans, LA

Mayor Sharon Weston Broome
Baton Rouge, LA

Baton Rouge Mayor Sharon Weston Broome delivered her State of the City address highlighting community improvements on several significant issues over the past year. Her priorities include public safety, economic and workforce development, drainage, transportation, housing, environmental services, and youth and families services.

In her remarks, she shared how the city saw a 23% reduction in homicides in 2022 and a 14% reduction in non-fatal shootings. Mayor Broome credits this reduction to a collaborative effort between law enforcement and community members combatting violence at its roots. 

“East Baton Rouge Parish has an unprecedented opportunity to shape our community for future generations. The secret to our success will be every government agency, community partner, and business pulling in the same direction,” said Mayor Broome. 

Mayor Broome also highlighted how the city continues to experience record-breaking economic improvements, including the lowest unemployment rate in history and more than 2,000 new businesses since the beginning of 2020. 

Read more about her address here and here.

Mayor Todd Gloria
San Diego, CA

In his third State of the City address, San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria outlined the considerable progress on the community’s top issues, including infrastructure, public safety, homelessness, and housing affordability. Mayor Gloria also made several policy announcements, among them an executive order that will expedite city approval of affordable housing projects to 30 days. 

In addition to the executive order, Mayor Gloria detailed his comprehensive strategy to help unhoused residents through increased shelter capacity and more permanent supportive housing, as well as advocacy at the state and federal levels to reform and strengthen mental health and substance use interventions.

Mayor Gloria also shared progress on other key priorities, highlighting the decrease in crime in 2022, significant progress on street repaving, and expanding parks and green spaces for the community. 

“None of tonight should come with the suggestion of mission accomplished,” Mayor Gloria said. “Our city has crawled out of the deepest of valleys, and we now find ourselves climbing the highest of mountains. The summit may be far in the distance, but San Diego is taking steps every day to reach it – and we will.”

Watch Mayor Gloria’s remarks here.

Mayor Gary McCarthy
Schenectady, NY

Schenectady Mayor Gary McCarthy gave his annual State of the City address, touting the city’s accomplishments over the past year and his vision for the city’s future. Mayor McCarthy’s top priorities are housing, continued development, public safety, and city services. 

During his address, he highlighted how the city is leading the way with new housing initiatives while collaborating with federal and state partners to create innovative options for the community. This includes a record amount of federal funding from the American Rescue Plan and its positive impact on the city’s HOME program that will be used toward additional affordable housing developments for the community. 

Mayor McCarthy also addressed public safety efforts, including crime trends over the past decade and the increase in police officers in the city to help deter future criminal activity. 

“Our city’s future is bright. I thank you for the opportunity to serve as your mayor,” said Mayor McCarthy.

Watch Mayor McCarthy’s address here.

Mayor Rex Richardson
Long Beach, CA

Long Beach Mayor Rex Richardson delivered his first State of the City address highlighting investments made in 2022 and his Opportunity Beach Agenda for the years ahead. His priorities as Mayor are ensuring quality and stable housing for all, building an economy where everyone thrives, creating safe and healthy communities, expanding opportunities for youth, and supporting a sustainable and resilient city. 

Mayor Richardson’s top priority is affordable housing and homelessness, and he is urgently moving to address this crisis, including declaring a state of emergency on the issue. The recent declaration will allow the Mayor to more effectively respond to the situation, streamline interagency processes, secure more financial resources, and more. 

“We will lead with a focus on equity and build a more just and inclusive city that leaves no one behind,” said Mayor Richardson. “Join me, and let’s make the Opportunity Beach Agenda our reality and begin this voyage with me toward our collective future.”

In his remarks, the Mayor also discussed expanding the city’s space exploration sector, including the relocation of Vast Space to the community, which will bring 700 new jobs.

Watch Mayor Richardson’s address here.

Mayor Randall Woodfin
Birmingham, AL

Birmingham Mayor Randall Woodfin delivered his 2023 State of the City address, where he highlighted priorities focused on building a better quality of life for all residents. Mayor Woodfin’s top priorities are affordable housing, youth services, and community and economic development. 

In his remarks, Mayor Woodfin spoke to the importance of prioritizing housing and the efforts the city has led thus far. This includes establishing a $10 million affordable housing trust fund, developing micro-shelters for unhoused residents, and constructing 50 new homes for residents. 

Mayor Woodfin also shared a new juvenile re-entry program, RESTORE, that will provide comprehensive services and support for youth ages 16 to 19 in state custody. The program is part of a broader collaboration to focus on the root causes of violence and better address prevention and re-entry. 

Watch Mayor Woodfin’s remarks here.

Mayor Erin Mendenhall
Salt Lake City, UT

During her annual State of the City address, Salt Lake City Mayor Erin Mendenhall highlighted accomplishments over the past year and shared new proposals to address the city’s challenges. Mayor Mendenhall’s priorities include economic development, water conservation, air quality, parks, safe streets, housing, and homelessness.

In her remarks, Mayor Mendenhall cited the city’s many efforts to become more environmentally resilient. These initiatives include adding EV charging stations, swapping out resident gas lawn mowers for electric, moving to net 100% renewable electricity community-wide, and planting thousands of trees. 

“I’ve said it before and it’s worth stating again, the character of this city isn’t created through the successes and challenges we face together — it’s revealed,” Mayor Mendenhall said. “That character is powerful, creative, tenacious, and caring. There’s no stopping us. We are bold. We are courageous. We are Salt Lakers, and we are ready.”

Mayor Mendenhall also shared how the city is investing up to $10 million in wealth-building homes for 1,500 families, adopting a Vision Zero strategy to make streets safer, and announcing a historic $100 million public-private investment in the Ballpark neighborhood. 

Watch Mayor Mendenhall’s remarks here.

Mayor Daniella Levine Cava
Miami-Dade County, FL

Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava delivered her annual State of the County address, outlining her vision for equitable economic growth and how she will continue to invest in the infrastructure and people power necessary for a thriving future. Mayor Cava’s top priorities are economic and workforce development, affordable housing, small businesses, youth, broadband access, public safety, and climate. 

Like many other regions facing an affordability crisis, Mayor Cava highlighted the many housing solutions that her administration has put forth over the past two years. This includes her emergency rental assistance program that has helped over 22,000 families, adopting a Tentant’s Bill of Rights, launching an office of housing advocacy, and a new condo and HOA online dashboard to improve transparency. 

“As we look back and look ahead, there is still work to do – but Miami-Dade, we’ve proven that we’re ready – and we can tackle any challenge tomorrow brings when we stand together,” said Mayor Cava. 

In her remarks, she also highlighted the launch of the Miami-Dade Innovation Authority, a nonprofit which will provide grants to companies working to solve pressing local challenges in climate, health, housing, transit, and more. 

Watch Mayor Cava’s remarks here. 

Mayor Michelle Wu 
Boston, MA

Boston Mayor Michelle Wu gave her first State of the City address, announcing a series of reforms to advance growth and ensure that the community’s planning and development resources are directed toward addressing today's greatest challenges, including climate resilience, equitable growth, and housing affordability. 

Mayor Wu will establish a City Planning and Design Department operating under the direction of Chief of Planning Arthur Jemison and create a Citywide Planning Advisory Council to increase coordination between City departments. The Mayor also committed to updating Boston’s zoning code to create thousands of additional housing units in Boston’s squares and corridors and reform the Article 80 process to increase speed and predictability for development. 

“As we look to the year ahead, our administration is focused on building a green and growing city for everyone,” said Mayor Michelle Wu. “Together, we can all build a Boston where the things we build inspire—but don’t define—us and where each generation shines brighter than the last.”

Watch Mayor Wu’s address here.

Mayor Eric Adams 
New York, NY

New York City Mayor Eric Adams outlined his “Working People’s Agenda” in his second State of the City address, sharing his four priorities: jobs, safety, housing, and care. 

In his remarks, Mayor Adams announced the launch of a new Apprenticeship Accelerator program to connect 30,000 New Yorkers to apprenticeships by 2030. The Accelerator will track all forms of apprenticeship from youth to adults in the workforce while providing technical assistance to support the expansion of apprenticeship programs by employers, training providers, educational institutions, and labor unions.

Mayor Adams also discussed how shootings were lowered by double digits in his first year, and the city ended 2022 on an overall downward trend in major crimes. 

“We’re just getting started, and there’s no stopping the world’s greatest city — filled with the best stuff on earth: New Yorkers,” said Mayor Adams.

Read more here.

Mayor Danene Sorace
Lancaster, PA

Mayor Danene Sorace gave her fifth State of the City address, highlighting her vision for the city of building a stronger and more equitable Lancaster block by block. Mayor Sorace’s key priorities are strong neighborhoods, safe places, a sustainable economy, and sound government. 

Mayor Sorace shared a few of the city’s historic investments in affordable housing as the demand for housing continues to grow. The initiatives include awarding $10 million to produce 85 new housing units and preserving 443 existing units while also planning 2,500 housing units for the future. 

She also discussed updates on the community’s safety efforts, including retrieving nearly 500 illegal guns off the streets, receiving a $4 million grant to support officer retention and wellness, and implementing a Vision Zero action plan. 

“Lancaster, this is truly a special place, and I am determined for us to continue on our path of being the best. I’m grateful for our numerous partners, our engaged neighbors, and our passionate local leaders.”

Watch Mayor Sorace’s full address here. 

Mayor Levar Stoney
Richmond, VA

Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney delivered his sixth State of the City address, where he highlighted economic, population, and cultural growth. Mayor Stoney’s priorities are economic and workforce development, housing, public safety, re-entry programs, youth education, and safe streets.

In his remarks, Mayor Stoney shared efforts to address the city’s housing needs by planning 2,000 new homeownership opportunities for low-income families, eviction diversion programs, mixed-use and mixed-income developments, and an improved permitting process.

Mayor Stoney also highlighted Richmond’s significant economic progress, including creating more than 2,000 jobs, lowering the poverty rate by 7%, managing $550 million in capital investments, and issuing 536 new business licenses and 670 commercial business permits.

Lastly, the Mayor announced two new pilot programs. One will give monthly payments to residents returning from incarceration to help them to return to the community, and the other will provide resources to graduates of Richmond Public Schools to attend community college.

“Our past is no longer leading our present. Now, we are leading our future,” said Mayor Stoney. “A future that includes all Richmonders, no matter the color of their skin, whom they pray to or whom they love.”

Watch Mayor Stoney’s full remarks here.

Mayor Kathy Sheehan
Albany, NY

During her tenth State of the City Address, Albany Mayor Kathy Sheehan celebrated the strides the city led in the past year and laid out her vision for 2023. Her priorities include affordable housing, American Rescue Plan Act investments, parks and recreation, small businesses, workforce development, and infrastructure improvements. 

Mayor Sheehan shared housing investments Albany is leading, including creating more homeownership opportunities across the community, investing in homeowners and homelessness prevention efforts, and holding bad landlords accountable. She also shared infrastructure improvements such as filling more than 22,000 potholes, repaving ten-plus miles of streets, and doubling their water infrastructure investments. 

The Mayor also highlighted public safety initiatives, such as implementing new police reform efforts, removing 147 illegal guns off the streets, building a new 911 dispatch center, completing the city's 300th diversion, and launching a new auxiliary police program. 

“I hope that as you look at what we have been able to accomplish, you are seeing that we are writing history right now, and we are making history right now. We’re creating a city that is truly an Albany for all, powered by pride and potential,” said Mayor Sheehan.

Watch Mayor Sheehan’s full remarks here.

Mayor Steven L. Reed
Montgomery, AL

Montgomery Mayor Steven L. Reed delivered his State of the City Address, reflecting on the past year’s accomplishments and his vision for the year ahead. Mayor Reed’s priorities for the year ahead are crime, the economy, and job creation. 

During his speech, Mayor Reed discussed Montgomery’s record-breaking year for economic development, including $1.7 billion in capital investment and the creation of 2,000 new jobs. He also discussed plans for a new arena and convention center, renovating community centers across the city, and revitalizing residential and commercial corridors.  

“I want what you want; and we want Montgomery to be the kind of place where we not only raise our children— but those children return because Montgomery offers opportunities – opportunities for fulfilling careers, excellent education and immersive cultural experiences,” said Mayor Reed.

Mayor Reed shared the Montgomery Police Department’s successes in reducing crime, which is marked by a downward trend in overall crime and the homicide rate. Additionally, last year Mayor Reed approved a 15% pay increase for police and is committed to working on recruitment efforts while prioritizing training and other strategies to prevent misconduct. 

Watch Mayor Reed’s full address here.

Mayor Craig Greenberg
Louisville, KY

Louisville Mayor Craig Greenberg delivered his first State of the City Address, highlighting his first 30 days in office and major initiatives being rolled out in the coming months. Mayor Greenberg’s top priorities include early childhood education, public safety, housing and homelessness, economic development, sustainability, and equity.

In his remarks, Mayor Greenberg shared details about the newly announced Community Care Campus for people experiencing homelessness. The facility will provide medical respite care to those leaving hospitalization with no housing and provide nutritional services, on-site laundry, and wraparound services.

Mayor Greenberg also reaffirmed his commitment to stopping gun violence in the community through a comprehensive approach to supporting the Louisville Metro Police Department and investing in the root causes of crime.

“The truth is I’m excited about where we are and what’s ahead. I’m excited to continue working with people from all over Louisville,” said Mayor Greenberg.

The Mayor also announced the creation of two new offices, the Office of Philanthropy and the Office of Immigrant Affairs. The Office of Philanthropy’s first goal is to implement universal pre-K, while the Office of Immigrant Affairs will work to better serve and strengthen the city’s growing immigrant community. 

Watch the Mayor’s full address here.

Mayor Jeffrey Mims, Jr. 
Dayton, OH

Dayton Mayor Jeffrey Mims delivered his second State of the City Address, where he reflected on his first year in office and the progress being made to improve the quality of life for residents. His priorities are youth, public safety, neighborhood and downtown revitalization, housing, infrastructure, job development, and sustainability.

During his remarks, Mayor Mims discussed the city’s efforts to engage more youth and future initiatives he hopes to pursue. These initiatives include hosting youth summits, convening a youth Mayor’s council, and prioritizing actions to help young people gain the skills needed for jobs. 

“I believe the children are the future. Teach them well and let them lead the way. Show them all the beauty they possess inside," said Mayor Mims. 

Mayor Mims highlighted new public safety efforts, including launching a mediation responder unit for non-violent disputes and organizing the police to be more community oriented. He also shared updates on the city’s sustainability efforts, including how prior actions have helped residents save 30% on their energy bills. 

Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.

Mayor London N. Breed
San Francisco, CA

San Francisco Mayor London N. Breed delivered her State of the City Address, where she set forth her top priorities for the year, including strategies to support the future of the downtown area, advancing the city’s creation of more housing, safer neighborhoods, and renewed efforts to respond to the city’s fentanyl crisis. 

Mayor Breed highlighted her public safety priorities, which are vital to the city’s economic recovery. She commended the work of the San Francisco Police Department, despite critically low officer staffing levels and retention challenges and expressed a continued need for increasing incentives to advance recruitment efforts and retain existing officers. Mayor Breed highlighted ongoing support for police alternatives, including the expansion of Community and Welcome Ambassadors, in addition to the City’s Street Crisis Response Teams. 

The Mayor also announced the Roadmap to Downtown San Francisco’s Future, a comprehensive plan that details ongoing and new strategies that set a new vision to reimagine Downtown’s economic recovery and role. 

“The last few years have been tough, we won’t solve all of San Francisco’s problems in a year, and we can’t fear trying new things. Because if we stand still, we fall behind. When we push forward, even if we stumble, we stumble forward,” said Mayor Breed.

Watch Mayor Breed’s full address here. 

Mayor Jared Nicholson
Lynn, MA

Lynn Mayor Jared Nicholson gave his first State of the City Address, highlighting the accomplishments and milestones of his first year in office and outlining his goals for the year ahead. The Mayor’s priorities include housing, jobs, schools, infrastructure, and safety. 

Mayor Nicholson discussed efforts Lynn is taking to improve housing, including working with the City Council to adopt inclusionary zoning for the city and setting aside homes in new developments that residents can afford. He also shared how they created an Affordable Housing Trust Fund to help further address housing needs in the community. 

During his address, Mayor Nicholson announced Vision Lynn, a comprehensive plan that will help the city grow thoughtfully. The city plans to invest dollars in improving traffic signals, redoing major roadways, and overhauling parks throughout the city. 

“The state of our city is strong. The future of our city is bright. Both of those statements are true because of the strength of our people,” said Mayor Nicholson. 

Watch the Mayor’s full address here.

Mayor Steve Williams
Huntington, WV

Huntington Mayor Steve Williams gave his 11th State of the City Address, highlighting infrastructure investments, low crime rates, a rebounding economy, low unemployment rates, and regional development. 

In his address, Mayor Williams shared there are 67 active capital projects underway that will be completed over the next few years, totaling nearly $514 million. These projects range from programming to advancing the quality of life, transportation, economic development, sewer, and beautification. Among these developments is a high-speed broadband project that will deploy fiber optic internet to every home and business in the city. 

“We have a vision of creating a meaningful, measurable track record of success in developing a plan of action towards a new direction,” said Mayor Williams.  “A future of unbridled opportunity, where Huntington is seen as the example of  the gateway to Appalachia at the dawn of the digital age.”

The Mayor discussed other announcements, including developing two new fire stations, an increased $15 minimum wage for city employees, and additional investments in the library, animal shelter, food bank, and theatre. 

Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.

Mayor Harvey Ward
Gainesville, FL

Gainesville Mayor Harvey Ward delivered his first State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s progress toward its strategic goals and his vision for an equitable and inclusive community. Mayor Ward’s priorities include housing and homelessness, parks and recreation, safe streets, sustainability, public safety, utilities, and economic development.

Mayor Ward discussed Gainesville’s priority of creating complete streets and shared the city received $8 million in grant funding from the Biden Administration to transform one of the community’s major roadways. The funding will help slow traffic and build better sidewalks and landscape islands. 

“We are moving forward more steadily here in Gainesville because of the quality of our community, the dedication of our partners, and the good ideas and participation of our neighbors,” said Mayor Ward.

In his remarks, Mayor Ward also shared how the city is helping low-income families achieve homeownership, including donating 11 vacant lots to Habitat for Humanity and offering free probate legal assistance. Additionally, he spoke about efforts to become a more sustainable community by passing three new zero-waste ordinances that will help them reach their net zero-community-wide goal.

Watch the Mayor’s full remarks here.

Mayor John Hamilton
Bloomington, IN 

Bloomington Mayor John Hamilton presented his last State of the City address, where he celebrated the accomplishments over the past several years and shared how the city should prepare for its future. Mayor Hamilton’s top priorities include the climate crisis, quality of life, affordable housing, public health, and the criminal justice system.

Mayor Hamilton opened his remarks by reflecting on beginning his tenure in 2016 and later leading his community through a global pandemic. Despite the many challenges over the years, he noted the city’s success due to the critical work of Bloomington’s city employees and many department heads. He also highlighted the impact of the Biden-Harris Administration's historic legislation that will help the community lead transformational progress in many areas. 

In his address, he also highlighted investments for 2023, including public safety initiatives of over $30 million for a new public safety headquarters and a new $100,000 forgivable loans program to help first responders buy homes in the city. Additionally, he shared dozens of miles of fiber-optic cable are being installed to bring a new digital future to the city.

“With excellent local momentum, and unprecedented federal support available, we can combine resources and political will to rise even higher. It is a great time to be in Bloomington, with the state of our city so strong,” said Mayor Hamilton.

Watch Mayor Hamilton’s full address here.

Mayor Bruce Harrell
Seattle, WA

Seattle Mayor Bruce Harrell delivered his State of the City address, outlining his One Seattle Vision for the city's future. Mayor Harrell shared actions to address challenges like public safety, homelessness, downtown activation, climate action, and more.

In his remarks, Mayor Harrell highlighted strategies to make Seattle's downtown safer and more welcoming, including filling vacant storefronts, issuing a future executive order to address fentanyl and synthetic drugs, and creating a linear arts-entertainment cultural district.

“As we work to make Seattle safe for everyone, address homelessness, revitalize Downtown, and build a healthy city for all, we recognize the future Seattle is the one that we’re building today. Once again, we must embrace the boldness and innovation that our city is renowned for, turn policy into progress, and unite to build One Seattle together,” said Mayor Harrell.

Mayor Harell also announced the launch of neighborhood-focused unified care teams to help those experiencing homelessness connect with places to go and provide services to keep city spaces clean. He also shared efforts to tackle the climate crisis through new clean buildings, tree preservation and planting, and Seattle's Green New Deal investments in resilience hubs and electric heat pump conversion.

Watch Mayor Harell’s full remarks here.

Mayor Frank Scott, Jr.
Little Rock, AR 

Little Rock Mayor Frank Scott, Jr. delivered his State of the City Address, reflecting on how the community has grown forward together despite challenges over the past few years and his vision for the city’s future. Mayor Scott’s priorities include workforce and economic development, downtown revitalization, sustainability, infrastructure, parks and recreation, affordable housing and homelessness, education, and public safety.

Over the past year, Little Rock has invested more than $2 million in community violence intervention programs that have kept youth engaged and off city streets. These efforts have reaped positive results, with recent data showing that overall crime is down by 7% and violent crime is down nearly 13%. 

Beyond these efforts, the Mayor plans to create a permanent Public Safety Commission, establish a HOPE Center pilot in targeted neighborhoods, and continue community programming like Midnight basketball and summer youth employment opportunities. 

In his remarks, he also shared how the city is working to identify ways to reduce its dependence on fossil fuels and decrease its overall energy use. This includes completing a greenhouse gas inventory and adopting a sustainability action plan that will help the city convert at least 50% of the city’s fleet to electric vehicles by 2030.

“I’m here to tell you today - the state of our City is better than it’s ever been! We are strong.  Our future is bright. We are poised to take our city to even higher heights if we commit to working TOGETHER,” said Mayor Scott.

Watch Mayor Scott’s full address here.

Mayor Mike Duggan
Detroit, MI

Detroit Mayor Mike Duggan gave his tenth State of the City Address, sharing the city’s progress on key initiatives for affordable housing, public safety, small businesses, education, revitalizing neighborhoods, workforce, and economic development. 

Mayor Duggan spoke about the city’s efforts to rebuild its automobile industry and their progress in gaining significant investments, such as Google’s Waymo startup and Ford’s new auto hub, and its positive impact on the community. He also shared that Detroit is developing America’s first public charging road, which will be wireless and have underground coils to charge vehicles. 

In his remarks, Mayor Duggan also discussed the significant progress the community has made in revitalizing neighborhoods. Mayor Duggan highlighted his plan to improve neighborhoods by cleaning alleyways, replacing broken sidewalk slabs, expanding neighborhood beautification programs, renovating abandoned houses for low-income families, providing legal help, and more. 

Lastly, the Mayor shared a new violence prevention initiative, ShotStoppers, supported by $10 million in American Rescue Plan Act funds that will partner with community activist groups with a history of working with those engaged in gun violence to improve public safety efforts. 

Watch Mayor Duggan’s full address here.

Mayor Farrah N. Khan
Irvine, CA

Irvine Mayor Farrah N. Khan delivered her State of the City Address, reviewing the community's accomplishments of 2022 and sharing her vision for 2023 and beyond. 

Mayor Khan reiterated her commitment to progress, generational success, and growth in her address. In 2022, Irvine hosted President Joe Biden and former Los Angeles Mayor Antonio Villaraigosa – now Governor Newsom's Senior Infrastructure Advisor – to discuss infrastructure and funding opportunities necessary to maintain Irvine's exceptional quality of life. 

She spoke to Irvine's growth and the successes achieved throughout the city's 51 years of incorporation, highlighting the recent entrance into the Big City Mayors Coalition and ensuring a voice in local issue leadership. 

Mayor Khan also praised Irvine's conservative approach to budgeting, resource management, and community investment through programs like the Irvine Recovery Plan. She also addressed Irvine's growth while continuing to provide the most affordable housing units in the county. Through partnerships with community organizations, investments in the community, and subsequent new initiatives – including a health and wellness component – she reaffirmed the city's commitment to providing services and programs to meet the needs of the diverse community.

Watch Mayor Khan’s full remarks here.

Mayor Cassie Franklin
Everett, WA

Everett Mayor Cassie Franklin delivered her fifth State of the City Address, where she issued five new directives to address some of the city’s challenges and support the community’s ultimate vision of ensuring the best quality of life for residents, businesses, and visitors. Mayor Franklin’s priorities include education, parks and recreation, downtown revitalization, violence prevention, economic development, behavioral health, housing, and climate action.

In her remarks, Mayor Franklin shared new public safety directives that will help keep residents safe and give law enforcement the resources they need to be successful. This includes establishing a violent crime unit that will focus on the response and investigation of violent crimes throughout the community, advocating for common-sense gun laws at the state and federal levels, pursuing Extreme Risk Protection Orders, and more. 

Mayor Franklin also discussed Housing Choices for All, where she will direct staff to move forward with strategies to help increase the housing supply at all price points, including permit streamlining and development incentives. The city also continues to help its unsheltered population find increased support and services while finding long-term housing solutions.

The Mayor also cited efforts to combat climate change and build a resilient community by continuing to electrify their bus fleet, transition buildings away from fossil fuels, and develop an urban forest management plan. 

Watch Mayor Franklin’s full speech here.

Mayor Andy Schor
Lansing, MI

Lansing Mayor Andy Schor delivered his sixth State of the City Address, focusing his remarks on the theme of 'Lansing’s Time is Now' and outlining the city’s plans for the upcoming year. Mayor Schor’s top priorities are housing, economic development, public safety, business growth, support for social services, parks, and sustainability. 

In his remarks, Mayor Schor noted that a strong city needs housing for all people, including affordable housing with supportive services for those in need and workforce housing to attract and retain workers. Among the city’s many new housing projects, Mayor Schor announced the Lansing Rental Housing Rehabilitation Program, which will help rehab affordable rental housing. 

“I am proud to report that the state of our city is great. While we still navigate challenges and issues that all communities face, we’ve been able to accomplish much over the last year after having to change our lives due to the pandemic,” said Mayor Schor. 

Like other cities that saw a rise in crime during the pandemic, Lansing has sought solutions such as Advance the Peace, which uses peers to curb and prevent violence. The city’s efforts also include a recent $175 million bond that will help the community create a new and modern public safety campus to house its entire police force and will help them recruit and retain first responders.

Watch Mayor Schor’s full remarks here.

Mayor Victoria Woodards
Tacoma, WA

Tacoma Mayor Victoria Woodards gave her State of the City Address, centering her address on ‘Building Tomorrow Together’ and highlighting her plans for public safety, housing, homelessness, and livability. 

Mayor Woodards shared the city’s comprehensive plan to address crime and safety, including Vision Zero, safe routes to school, youth violence prevention programs, and adding more police resources. The Mayor also announced two new public safety programs, the Community Services Officer Program, and the Behavioral Health Crisis Response team, that will help provide appropriate levels of care to those in need. 

“We’re solution oriented, hard working people driven by a sincere desire to make Tacoma better. That’s why I know despite what we’re facing now, our best days are ahead of us,” said Mayor Woodards.

In her remarks, she also highlighted Tacoma’s efforts to expand housing for all residents through actions such as permitting over 7,000 new homes since 2019, adding a half million dollars in funding for Black homeownership downpayment assistance, funding several anti-displacement measures, and putting forth a new strategic plan to address homelessness.

Mayor Woodards also discussed the city’s climate action plan, which has set an aggressive goal for net zero carbon emissions by 2050. The plan will fund green jobs, air quality relief, and electric vehicles. 

Watch Mayor Woodards’ full address here. 

Mayor Robert Sullivan
Brockton, MA

Brockton Mayor Robert Sullivan gave his third State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s many accomplishments and upcoming initiatives for 2023. The Mayor’s priorities include downtown revitalization, public safety, parks and recreation, city beautification, immigrant services, public transit, sustainability, youth education, workforce, and economic development.

In his remarks, Mayor Sullivan announced a new program, the Clean City Initiative, where they will launch crews regularly to address litter and clutter. The city plans to launch youth crews this summer to assist the effort and appoint volunteer ward captains to report to city councilors and the Mayor on areas of concern.

Mayor Sullivan also shared the impact of the American Rescue Plan investments on his community for non-profit organizations, housing, homelessness, city hall, parks and playgrounds, the senior center, and more. 

“My friends and fellow Brocktonians, the state of our city is strong and vibrant – and that vibrancy is due to our collective work. We are better together,” said Mayor Sullivan.

The Mayor additionally discussed that Brockton has more than 700 new transit-oriented housing units in development and is progressing on the city’s new public safety building that will house four city departments. 

Watch Mayor Sullivan’s full address here.

Mayor Andrew Ginther
Columbus, OH

Columbus Mayor Andrew Ginther delivered his State of the City Address, outlining his vision to improve neighborhood safety, make the city more affordable for more families, and provide excellent city services that empower the city's residents and businesses to thrive. 

Mayor Ginther opened his address by noting the importance of neighborhood safety and recent accomplishments in improving public safety, resulting in a 33% reduction in homicides and a decline in violent crime. The city has launched various initiatives to remove violent criminals from neighborhoods, used cutting-edge technologies, and established prevention and intervention programs. 

Mayor Ginther also shared Columbus has passed commonsense gun safety measures like limiting the number of rounds in a magazine, demanding safe storage for guns, and increasing penalties for shady firearms dealers, and the city is working to pass universal background checks and red-flag laws.

In his remarks, the Mayor also highlighted the importance of affordability, particularly regarding housing for his community. In response to its housing needs, the city created the Regional Housing Coalition to coordinate the efforts of suburban partners, private investors, and the nonprofit sector and passed two voter-approved affordable housing bonds. Additionally, they have led efforts to provide residents with resources to assist with down payments, capital grants, and loan forgiveness.

“I have every confidence that as our city grows, so will our efforts to make Columbus more affordable … and more equitable … for everyone. That is the foundation for a stronger future,” said Mayor Ginther. 

Watch Mayor Ginther’s full remarks here.

Mayor Daniel Horrigan
Akron, OH

Akron Mayor Daniel Horrigan delivered his final State of the City Address, where he reflected on his experience leading the city and the core pillars he plans to leave behind for a new generation of leadership. 

In his last address, the Mayor took a different approach foregoing highlighting his achievements or sharing data, but instead reviewing a broader reflection of his tenure. Mayor Horrigan provided background on what he knew coming into office and his core leadership values, the areas he focused on during his tenure, the insights he gained, and what he plans to leave for the next Mayor. He referenced the core pillars of a strong foundation: good governance, financial stability, and equity. 

Mayor Horrigan also spoke about the importance of public safety and the entire community's role in creating a safer Akron, particularly the role of law enforcement and community relationships. In addition to public safety, Mayor Horrigan spoke about the importance of housing at various price points, good financial standing, and equity. 

“Again, it is the people of Akron who matter most, and it is the people who make Akron what it is. I thank you for the trust you’ve placed in me over the years to lead you into a new day and I look forward to passing on these core pillars to whoever comes next. It has been the honor of my professional lifetime to serve as your Mayor,” said Mayor Horrigan.

Watch Mayor Horrigan’s full address here. 

Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla
Hoboken, NJ

Hoboken Mayor Ravi S. Bhalla gave his fourth State of the City Address, highlighting his priorities for this year, including advancing open space projects with flood resiliency upgrades, investing in Hoboken’s infrastructure and water main system, substantial improvements to the waterfront, and more.

In his remarks, Mayor Bhalla highlighted upcoming open space redevelopment projects and resiliency efforts, including several waterfront projects. Specifically, Mayor Bhalla is focusing on a project on Sinatra Drive, including over 160 trees, plants, and green infrastructure to absorb rainwater, and Vision Zero pedestrian safety improvements, including 15 high-visibility crosswalks, 15 curb extensions, and 13 rapid flashing beacons.

Mayor Bhalla also plans to invest in critical infrastructure, including over 5,000 linear feet of new water mains, modern pressure sensors, and more. Further, he intends to increase city services through new social workers and recreation programming to improve the quality of life for residents.

“What I learned over the last few years still remains true today: Hoboken is strong because Hoboken stands together,” said Mayor Bhalla. 

Watch Mayor Bhalla’s full remarks here.

Mayor Luke Bronin
Hartford, CT

Hartford Mayor Luke Bronin gave his final State of the City Address, centering his remarks on the 2024 budget, the work underway to support the city’s recovery and progress, and his vision for the community in the remainder of his term and beyond.

Mayor Bronin outlined his recommended budget for 2024, sharing that it builds on the city’s progress over the past seven years. The budget includes new tax relief for seniors, costs for collective bargaining agreements, resources for the city’s 911 call center, an increase in funds for the recreation department and libraries, and more. 

Mayor Bronin also described Hartford’s ongoing work to support young people, small businesses, public safety, housing opportunity, arts, and economic development. The Mayor ended his remarks with a call for unity and an optimistic vision for the city’s future. 

“Tonight, I want to start where I usually end: the state of our city is strong,” said Mayor Bronin. “Its strength doesn’t come from the budget I’m going to talk about, or from this building.  It doesn’t come from me as Mayor or from any other elected leaders. Hartford is strong because the people of Hartford are strong.”

Read Mayor Bronin’s full remarks here.

Mayor Lacey Beaty
Beaverton, OR

Beaverton Mayor Lacey Beaty delivered her State of the City Address, highlighting her community’s efforts on homelessness, affordable housing, infrastructure, economic development, transportation safety, arts, and innovation.

In her remarks, Mayor Beaty noted that housing is a fundamental human right and that no member of the community should be without safe, affordable housing. She then discussed efforts to bolster housing, including establishing a year-round shelter, starting two affordable housing developments, and opening a new facility with HomePlate Youth Services to assist young people in finding permanent housing. 

The Mayor and other city council members also shared updates about the Beaverton Downtown Loop Project, a key initiative to enhance biking, walking, and transit in the downtown area. Mayor Beaty also highlighted the county’s work with the behavioral health court and DUI diversion program, which help residents get the resources they need and keep the community safe. 

“If there is one thing that became clear to me in 2022, it’s that government works. We can bring positive change to people, but we can’t do it alone. Government success, community success depends on strong partnerships. Our partnerships with community organizations, activists, small businesses, and large corporations are vital to the kind of shared success we need.”

Watch Mayor Beaty’s full address here.

Mayor Andre Dickens
Atlanta, GA

Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens gave his second State of the City Address, highlighting the accomplishments of his first year in office and sharing his vision for his administration to move the community forward. Mayor Dickens’ priorities are public safety, infrastructure, equity, youth, and effective and ethical government. 

Public safety remains a top priority for the Mayor and his team, particularly involving the city’s youth. Through Atlanta’s Police Athletic League and their At-Promise Centers, the city’s officers work in the community to give young people a new path. Mayor Dickens further highlighted investments the city is making to ensure law enforcement and firefighters have the resources to serve their communities. 

The Mayor also spoke about the city’s infrastructure projects, including the $750 million Moving Atlanta Forward Infrastructure Package passed by voters last May to help the community rebuild roads, fire stations, bike paths, and sidewalks. Lastly, Mayor Dickens provided an update on initiatives related to Year of the Youth and called on the community to continue to invest in the city’s younger population in new ways. 

Watch Mayor Dickens’ full address here.

Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz
Toledo, OH

Toledo Mayor Wade Kapszukiewicz delivered his State of the City address, where he shared the progress the city has made in several areas over the last year and discussed the remaining challenges.

The Mayor opened his speech by discussing gun violence, which has spiked across the United States in the aftermath of the pandemic. 

“We’ve made a lot of progress in a number of areas but there’s more work to be done,” Mayor Kapszukiewicz said. “I have no doubt if we work together we will be able to overcome our challenges.”

Mayor Kapszukiewicz highlighted many successes: a strong local economy, a healthy city budget with a $43.5 million rainy day fund, a record-setting amount of sidewalk and road repairs, the highest number of youth programs in the city’s history, a new Wayman Palmer YMCA, new parks and recreation renovations, and new market-rate housing developments that are underway.

The Mayor rounded out his address with two important challenges to sustain Toledo’s future: developing a site to attract new electric jobs of the future and making needed upgrades to the Bay View Wastewater Treatment Plant.

Watch Mayor Kapszukiewicz’s full remarks here.

Mayor Nancy Vaughan
Greensboro, NC

Greensboro Mayor Nancy Vaughan delivered the city’s first-ever State of the City Address, sharing remarks centered on the theme of ‘Vision, Innovation, and Progress.’ Mayor Vaughan’s priorities include economic development, housing, transportation, workforce development, homelessness, public safety, downtown innovation, and sustainability. 

In her remarks, Mayor Vaughan, alongside her fellow city council members, shared updates regarding expanding affordable housing and supporting unhoused residences. The city council recently approved a resolution to make a $5 million investment into Greensboro’s preservation loan fund, which will help the production and preservation of affordable housing through public-private lending partnerships. The Mayor also highlighted efforts to support unhoused residents through Greensboro’s pallet shelter program, which is the first in the state.

“I hope this has given you a clear indication of the state of our city. It is strong, prosperous, and proves we are progressive. As your elected body, we are committed to staying laser-focused on these priorities to bring the vision for Greensboro to fruition,” said Mayor Vaughan.

Mayor Vaughan also highlighted the NCWorks: NextGen Emerging Workforce Career Center, which focuses on collaboration with various community partners while delivering youth services that center on educational opportunities and career pathways. 

Watch Mayor Vaughan’s full remarks here.

Mayor Kate Gallego
Phoenix, AZ

Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego gave her State of the City Address, focusing her remarks on the theme of ‘The Future is Phoenix.’ Mayor Gallego’s ongoing priorities include climate action, housing, transportation, innovation, education, public safety, workforce development, and infrastructure. 

The Mayor highlighted recent efforts on water solutions, including the recent approval of an advanced water purification facility that will recycle 60 million gallons per day to turn wastewater into drinking water for residents. Mayor Gallego shared other sustainability efforts such as tackling extreme heat and expanding better air quality for her community.

In her address, Mayor Gallego noted the launch of the Route to Relief program with Maricopa Community Colleges, which uses American Rescue Plan dollars to provide residents with free education. The program spans ten community colleges providing support to single parents to help them overcome barriers to education and employment by covering transportation and child care costs. 

Mayor Gallego remains focused on ensuring residents have access to affordable housing. She referenced to the city’s Housing Phoenix Plan, which was adopted in 2019 to build or preserve 50,000 housing units by 2030, and shared that the city already has more than 26,000 housing units. The city also launched the Community Land Trust pilot program in partnership with a nonprofit which helps address long-term affordability challenges and combat critical systemic inequities.

Watch Mayor Gallego’s full address here.

Mayor Ron Nirenberg
San Antonio, TX

San Antonio Mayor Ron Nirenberg delivered his State of the City Address, where he reflected on the city’s progress over the past several years and his vision for implementation efforts in the year ahead. His ongoing priorities as Mayor are military services, economic mobility, housing, transportation, workforce development, and public safety. 

In his remarks, Mayor Nirenberg emphasized that expanding affordable housing options remains a top priority for his administration. He highlighted the $1.2 billion 2022 city bond to support the development and preservation of thousands of affordable housing units. The Mayor also shared how San Antonio was the first city in President Joe Biden’s House America effort to meet its goal of rehousing 1,500 households between November 2021 and December 2022. 

“In previous years, I have come to this stage discussing plans and proposals for housing, transportation, and workforce development. For the most part, the talking is over on those issues. This year, we are focused on implementation. And I can attest that the state of the city is poised for takeoff, and gaining momentum as we invest in the people of San Antonio,” said Mayor Nirenberg.

Mayor Nirenberg also shared updates about the city’s workforce development efforts focusing on its Ready to Work program, which is San Antonio’s premier training, education, and employment program. Since launching last May, 13,000 residents have applied for the program. Further, Mayor Nirenberg noted how the city had received $3 million in federal funds from the U.S. Department of Labor for workforce initiatives and how former Labor Secretary Marty Walsh, in a visit to the city, highlighted how the Ready to Work program should be a model for the rest of the country.

Watch Mayor Nirenberg’s full remarks here.

Mayor Justin M. Bibb
Cleveland, OH

Cleveland Mayor Justin M. Bibb delivered his second State of the City Address, reflecting on the highs and lows of his first year in office, the barriers, and the breakthroughs. Mayor Bibb’s priorities are public safety, housing, economic development, transportation, infrastructure, waterways, neighborhoods, and sustainable development.

Mayor Bibb emphasized the importance of keeping Cleveland safe and the many initiatives underway in the city and by its many partners. Cleveland remains committed to using smart policing by leveraging partnerships with technology, such as its crime gun intelligence center, to solve crimes, identify repeat offenders, and get illegal guns off the streets. The Mayor noted that special operations resulted in more than 100 arrests and the confiscation of over 660 illegal guns.

In his remarks, he stated that law enforcement is only one part of the equation and that the community must invest in prevention and reduction efforts to address the root causes of crime. Mayor Bibb introduced legislation along with the City Council to create one of the nation’s first-ever Neighborhood Safety Endowment Funds using ARPA dollars. This $10 million investment will generate an additional $13 million in grant money over the next 25 years to fund community interventions to reduce violence. The city also has made major investments to double its co-responder teams to get individuals the crisis treatment and care they need.

Mayor Bibb shared that Cleveland is using ARPA funds to create a $50 million site readiness fund, which has the potential to create 25,000 good-paying jobs and yield an additional 40,000 indirect jobs. The investment has the potential to re-activate one thousand acres of currently underutilized land, helping reduce blight and enhance the city’s economic competitiveness. The Mayor also discussed a new partnership with Goldman Sachs to bring its 10,000 Small Business Initiative to Cleveland's neighborhoods to bolster Black-owned businesses.

Watch Mayor Bibb’s full address here.

Mayor Angela Birney
Redmond, WA

Redmond Mayor Angela Birney delivered her State of the City Address, emphasizing the city’s efforts and priorities on housing, transportation, sustainability, and public safety.
 
The Mayor addressed Redmond’s sustainability efforts and their partnership with Energy Smart Eastside Program to reduce emissions from existing buildings and accelerate the transition to energy-efficient heat pumps. The city has prioritized low-and-moderate-income households with full-cost coverage heat pump installations to ensure the community’s most vulnerable are not left behind.
 
Transportation options and infrastructure remain a priority for Mayor Birney as she highlighted the city’s strong connection with Sound Transit and Microsoft to build new pedestrian and bicycle bridges for commuters and visitors. Mayor Birney also focused on Redmond’s THRIVE program bringing together homelessness response, human services, mental health professionals, mobile health services, and community court programs so community members can make progress toward goals despite their circumstances.
 
Mayor Birney highlighted the city’s dedicated partnership with its nonprofit service center, Together Center, which provides affordable low-income housing and space for nonprofits. They continue providing services to over 30,000 people annually, improving Redmond’s livability for many residents. The Mayor ended her address by honoring Redmond’s Space District, celebrating its robust and growing commercial global space companies and satellite sector in the city.

Watch Mayor Birney’s full address here.

Mayor Brandon M. Scott
Baltimore, MD 

Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott delivered his State of the City Address, reflecting on his tenure in office, how the city has weathered many challenges from the pandemic, and his vision for the future. Mayor Scott’s priorities include public safety, youth, parks and recreation, libraries, housing, infrastructure, workforce development, small businesses, and seniors. 

In his remarks, Mayor Scott said the city is making continuous strides toward building a safer community and addressing violence at every level through community investments and supporting law enforcement. A key element of the Mayor’s efforts is Baltimore’s Comprehensive Prevention Plan, which has decreased homicides and non-fatal shootings. 

The Mayor also shared establishing a 9-1-1 diversion program, investing in a Safe Streets program to mediate conflicts, launching a re-entry program, and developing a hospital-based violence intervention partnership with health care systems. He also discussed the city’s efforts to tackle the proliferation of guns and called on Congress to advance meaningful gun reform.

Mayor Scott additionally highlighted efforts to address housing concerns in his region, including tackling vacant properties and blight and increasing more Black homeownership opportunities. 

Watch Mayor Scott’s full remarks here.

Mayor Karen Bass
Los Angeles, CA 

Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass gave her first State of the City Address, reflecting on her first 127 days in office and her vision for a new Los Angeles that is stronger, healthier, happier, and safer. Her priorities include homelessness, housing, safety, mental health, climate change, transit, and infrastructure.

From the start of her tenure, Mayor Bass has prioritized paving a new path for the city to find sustainable housing solutions for people experiencing homelessness. Since taking office, more than 1,000 Angelenos have been living inside and safe through the city’s Inside Safe initiative, and they have opened new permanent supportive housing units across Los Angeles. 

Mayor Bass also spoke about keeping Los Angeles safe by hiring more firefighters, strengthening the police department and related wraparound services, and creating a new Office of Community Safety. The office will build capacity for community intervention workers, social workers, clinical psychologists, and other experts to respond when police presence is not required; while also organizing community services that break the cycle of violence and crime.

The Mayor emphasized that Los Angeles must continue aggressively confronting and adapting to climate change to ensure the city is resilient. She plans to build an advanced water purification facility and remains committed to the city’s zero-emission goals. 

Watch Mayor Bass’ full remarks here.

Mayor Malik D. Evans
Rochester, NY 

Rochester Mayor Malik D. Evans gave his first State of the City Address, highlighting how city leaders inspire hope and deliver opportunities to the community, with a goal of loosening the grip on poverty for the city’s most challenged neighborhoods. His priorities include youth, public safety, economic empowerment, workforce development, housing, and equity. 

In his remarks, Mayor Evans emphasized the importance of focusing on the city’s progress through a youth lens and finding every possible opportunity to support them. The Mayor said collaboration is critical and shared examples of efforts already underway for youth, such as expanding the Summer Opportunity program, raising pay for lifeguards and recreation workers, creating a youth agriculture program, and offering stipends for summer enrichment programs. 

Mayor Evans shared his public safety vision, noting the city follows a prevention, intervention, and suppression strategy to combat violence. The city created the Office of Violence Prevention to support this strategy, expanding its Pathways to Peace program and putting outreach teams in schools. Other efforts the city is leading to promote safety include planting 2,000 street trees this year, continuing to invest in crosswalks and bike lanes, helping the unhoused find shelter, and expanding their Persons in Crisis Team.

The Mayor also highlighted some of the city’s equity initiatives, including the Guaranteed Basic Income Project and the Lead Water Service Line Replacement Project which are funded with American Rescue Plan Act dollars.

Watch Mayor Evans’ full address here.

Mayor Elaine O’Neal 
Durham, NC 

Durham Mayor Elaine O’Neal delivered her second State of the City Address, sharing the city’s accomplishments over the past year and her continued commitment to moving the community forward. Mayor O’Neal’s priorities include public safety, affordable housing, economic and youth development, parks and recreation, and transportation.

Mayor O’Neal emphasized the importance of closing the prosperity gap in Durham and ensuring all residents have access to safe and affordable housing. To aid these efforts, the Mayor announced the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development selected the city and the Durham Housing Authority (DHA)  to receive a $40 million Choice Neighborhoods Implementation Grant. The funding will help revitalize and develop multiple DHA, city, and county-owned properties in the community.  

The Mayor highlighted the lasting impact of federal funding, such as the  Bipartisan Infrastructure Law and the American Rescue Plan Act, on the community. The city was awarded over $10 million through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to support Safe Streets and Roads for All Program, Emergency Watershed Protection Program, and Hazard Mitigation. Additionally, through the American Rescue Plan, they will fund 34 projects led by Durham non-profits and community organizations addressing safe, stable housing, economic equity, community resiliency, and health and wellness.

Mayor O’Neal shared how Durham invests in economic development, small business support for minority-owned, women-owned, and underutilized businesses, and strategies such as guaranteed income to improve economic equity for vulnerable populations. 

Watch Mayor O’Neal’s full address here.

Mayor Melvin Carter
Saint Paul, MN

Saint Paul Mayor Melvin Carter delivered his State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s progress, growth, and opportunities ahead. Mayor Carter’s priorities are infrastructure, sustainability, public safety, housing, education, and guaranteed income programs.

Early in his address, Mayor Carter said that to realize a truly sustainable Saint Paul that can meet the demands of a growing city, they must address decades of disinvestment in infrastructure. To solve this, the Mayor highlighted their local sales tax proposal, which could generate a billion dollars toward streets, parks, and recreation facilities. 

Beyond laying the groundwork for reinvesting in their infrastructure and sustainability, the Mayor noted that they must continue to build a coordinated, comprehensive, and data-driven approach to public safety. Mayor Carter shared updates about several initiatives, including a collaboration between the police department, community-first partners, and the Office of Neighborhood Safety on Project PEACE. This gun violence intervention initiative connects victims of violence with evidence-based resources, community-led programming, and wraparound support.

Mayor Carter also announced the launch of the Inheritance Fund, which will provide up to $110,000 in down payment assistance to descendants of Old Rondo to begin restoring the community wealth that was taken away by the construction of I-94. 

 Watch Mayor Carter’s full remarks here.

Mayor Alan Webber
Santa Fe, NM

Santa Fe Mayor Alan Webber delivered his State of the City Address, spotlighting the city’s dedicated employees, accomplishments over the past few years, and the work to build a better future for all residents. Mayor Webber’s priorities are city services, affordable and workforce housing, sustainability, and community health and safety. 

Highlighting the progress the city has achieved, Mayor Webber shared updates on public safety personnel, housing, and sustainability investments. Santa Fe has lowered its job vacancy rates for first responders, which the Mayor attributes to pay increases, down payment assistance programs, and incentives for lateral transfers. Mayor Webber announced the city had approved 3,554 new units, with thousands more in the pipeline, along with $3 million in rental and mortgage assistance for low and median-income families. 

The Mayor also shared Santa Fe’s progress in sustainability efforts, including reducing water usage by 2 million gallons per year, generating 1.5 megawatts of solar energy on city buildings and facilities, and reducing overall energy use by 60% with LED street-light conversions.

Mayor Webber reflected on the city’s commitment to justice through an environmental, social, economic, and educational lens and how they are working toward achieving that goal. These efforts include working to protect residents from gentrification and displacement, improving the city-wide living wage, and addressing the interconnected issues of homelessness and affordable housing, opioid addiction, fentanyl abuse, and mental and behavioral health.

Watch Mayor Webber’s full address here.

Mayor Tishaura O. Jones
St. Louis, MO

St. Louis Mayor Tishaura O. Jones delivered her second State of the City Address, focusing on modernizing city government, cutting red tape, and reimagining public safety for a new era. Mayor Jones emphasized how she hears the frustrations of everyday residents and is working daily to make St. Louis a stronger, safer city for families.

As promised in her last address, Mayor Jones delivered the first across-the-board raise for city employees and a retention incentive as well. The newly created Office of Violence Prevention now coordinates the city’s public safety resources, including community violence intervention programs and youth programming. Mayor Jones also allocated the remaining American Rescue Plan funding to help support working families, expand access to healthcare, improve and calm streets, and directed more than $250 million to neglected neighborhoods.

Mayor Jones spoke out against Jefferson City’s attacks on reproductive freedoms, the LGBTQIA+ community, teachers, and librarians. She condemned the legislature’s attempted takeover of SLMPD, which would bring St. Louis back to the Civil War era. Mayor Jones also noted that car thefts aside, crime trends are lower than in both 2021 and 2022. 

The Mayor closed the address by emphasizing that just like she did as a reservation and sales agent with TWA, she hears residents’ concerns on city services like refuse collection, 911 consolidation, and public safety.

“As I walk into City Hall with you in my thoughts, I want you to leave here tonight with Dr. King’s words echoing in yours, just as his voice bounced off the walls of this historic building,” said Mayor Jones. “Dr. King said: ‘We may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now.’"
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Watch Mayor Jones’ full remarks here. 

Mayor John Cooper
Nashville, TN

​​Nashville Mayor John Cooper delivered his final State of the City Address, reflecting on the many accomplishments during his tenure and highlighting his vision for the city’s future. Mayor Cooper’s priorities are public safety, housing, neighborhood investments, education, transit, sustainability, and behavioral health.

Mayor Cooper shared actions Nashville has taken during his tenure to address access to housing, including leading the nation in using federal relief funds for housing investments and establishing an Affordable Housing Task Force. Through its efforts, the city will put more than 5,000 affordable housing units into the pipeline next fiscal year. The Mayor also highlighted how Nashville had housed 383 chronically homeless residents in the past 12 months and would be opening its first Office of Homeless Services in July. 

The Mayor highlighted how the city had invested more than ever in its first responders and emergency response resources to meet the safety needs of a growing city. Mayor Cooper recognized that public safety is more than just police but also includes behavioral health initiatives. Nashville has built co-response teams for residents struggling with mental health through Partners in Care, which pairs mental health professionals with police officers. 

Mayor Cooper noted the city had made generational investments to improve schools and added nearly $300 million in new, recurring spending, with over half of that new spending going directly into the pockets of teachers and support staff. He also mentioned investing over $3.3 billion in over 800 neighborhood improvement projects. 

“Serving Nashville as Mayor – working for the people of Nashville – has been the honor of my life,” said Mayor Cooper. “I’m deeply proud of what we have accomplished, and unwaveringly confident that our best days as a city are ahead of us.”

Watch Mayor Cooper’s full address here.

Mayor Heidi Lueb
Tigard, OR

Tigard Mayor Heidi Lueb made city history as she became the first woman to deliver a State of the City Address. Mayor Lueb shared the community’s progress, goals, and how leaders are making city government more responsive and accessible for all. Her priorities are equity, environment, engagement, excellence, and the economy. 

Mayor Lueb highlighted the significance of equity in the city’s progress, including hiring its first diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging manager to ensure equity is involved in all city actions. The city also developed its first racial equity action plan, guiding how it makes decisions, delivers services, engages with residents, invests, and measures success. 

The Mayor shared actions on how Tigard intends to address climate change and reduce the city’s overall impact on the climate crisis. Mayor Lueb discussed preserving and expanding the city’s tree canopy, aiming to plant 80,000 trees, of which they have already planted over 40,000. She also shared exploring incentive programs, such as the pilot e-bike borrowing program, so that more residents can access clean and free ways to get around the city. 

In her address, she discussed infrastructure improvements such as new lighting, improving sidewalks, creating safer pedestrian crossings, and more visible bus stops. Lastly, she said the city would continue its efforts to reduce homelessness through supporting outreach and services while bringing additional transitional housing forward.

“Tonight, I can tell you that the state of our city is resilient, compassionate and stronger than ever. Tigard is on the move and we’re moving forward,” said Mayor Lueb.

Watch Mayor Lueb’s full address here. 

Mayor Indya Kincannon
Knoxville, TN

Knoxville Mayor Indya Kincannon delivered her State of the City Address, where she celebrated the people and investments that maintain great public spaces in the city and the upcoming budget focused on families and community-building. Mayor Kincannon’s priorities are public safety, infrastructure, affordable housing, parks, and recreation.

Since 2020, the city has helped thousands of families have a safe and affordable place to live and has more affordable housing developments in the pipeline. Mayor Kincannon announced a new Knoxville-Knox County Office of Housing Stability that will help more families avoid eviction and get more people back on their feet after experiencing homelessness. 

The Mayor highlighted portions of her upcoming budget, which will allocate nearly $9.3 million for repairs to roads, bridges, guardrails, and potholes. The city budget also marks an additional $2.4 million to support sidewalks and other projects that support its Vision Zero commitment to safe streets for all, including bus riders, pedestrians, and bicyclists.   

Mayor Kincannon celebrated other successes, including more than 2,300 new jobs, upgraded trucks and equipment for firefighters, affordable high-speed internet, new trees and a long-term urban forestry plan, electric buses, and more EV charging stations. 

Watch Mayor Kincannon’s full address here. 

Mayor Jon Mitchell
New Bedford, MA

New Bedford Mayor Jon Mitchell delivered his State of the City Address, where he reflected on the accomplishments and progress the city has made over the years and his goals for the future. Mayor Mitchell’s priorities include making the most of the city’s economic competitiveness, nurturing a high quality of life, and reinforcing a sense of place. 

The Mayor discussed the city’s economic competitiveness and the importance of focusing on its advantages to grow its economy and create good-paying jobs. New Bedford has many advantages with its waterfront, particularly with its Port and the growth of offshore wind, which have helped the city secure public and private partnerships. Off the waterfront, Mayor Mitchell highlighted plans to continue to invest in the arts and culture sector, small businesses, and large manufacturers. 

Mayor Mitchell emphasized strategies to improve New Bedford’s quality of life by sharing public safety efforts, including increasing predictive patrolling in hot spot areas, holding repeat offenders accountable, and investing over a million dollars in public safety services for equipment, facilities, and training. 

The Mayor discussed the region’s housing challenges, and how the city is promoting housing production to stabilize prices, speed permitting, and expand incentives for new housing construction. New Bedford is also committed to providing high-quality support for homeless people.

Watch Mayor Mitchell’s full address here.

Mayor Caroline Simmons
Stamford, CT

Stamford Mayor Caroline Simmons delivered her State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s progress and her vision of building a more equitable, inclusive, and vibrant city where every resident can thrive. Mayor Simmons outlined her top priorities, including fixing the city’s infrastructure, advancing economic prosperity, and making the government more accountable. 

The Mayor shared infrastructure improvements, including road paving, sidewalk repairs, and the largest school construction project in the city’s history. She also noted the importance of investing in parks, beaches, and marinas, ensuring all residents can access high-quality park facilities. 

Regarding sustainability and resiliency, Mayor Simmons highlighted the city’s efforts to address climate change and reduce carbon emissions. Stamford conducted its first greenhouse gas inventory, implemented energy efficiency measures, and secured federal funding for sustainable projects.

Mayor Simmons also discussed economic prosperity, including initiatives to support small businesses, such as COVID-19 resiliency grants and efforts to attract international companies. She emphasized the city’s commitment to inclusivity, focusing on supporting minority, women-owned, and veteran-owned businesses and individuals with disabilities. 

Watch Mayor Simmons’ full address here. 

Mayor Lauren McLean
Boise, ID

In her 2023 State of the City Address, Mayor Lauren McLean laid out her vision for the city of Boise while highlighting city projects moving the needle on housing affordability, public safety, transportation, and access to parks and open space as the city grows and changes.

“Even through challenging times, I am betting on Boise,” added Mayor McLean. “I am betting on us as a community of people who have, generation after generation, rolled up our sleeves, worked together and beat the odds.”

Mayor McLean highlighted Boise’s work on a housing project at State and Arthur, where city land was used to incentivize a partnership with CCDC and Pacific Companies to make homes accessible along an important transportation corridor. Housing incentives are also a component of the city’s new, modern zoning code. This important update will create homes of all shapes and sizes that blend into a neighborhood’s fabric and address the growing need for housing in our community.

The city successfully kept $5.7 million in property tax dollars in the hands of Boiseans under Mayor McLean’s leadership while giving back an additional $1.2 million in property tax rebates to the city’s most vulnerable residents. The proposed 2024 budget includes an expansion of this important property tax rebate program for more homeowners.

Boise is also taking meaningful action when it comes to public safety and mental health support. In the last three years, the Boise Police Department has doubled the size of its behavioral health unit, pairing sworn officers and mental health professionals so that those experiencing a mental health crisis can get the help they need quickly and efficiently. The city’s 2024 budget also proposes establishing four-person staffing on fire engines in the Boise Fire Department, a first for Boise. Adding an extra firefighter on calls will keep residents safe and improves response capabilities.

Watch Mayor McLean’s full address here.

Mayor Tim Keller
Albuquerque, NM

Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller delivered his fifth State of the City Address, sharing city and community efforts on various issues, including public safety, housing, homelessness solutions, youth and families programs, downtown revitalization, equity and inclusion, economic development, and sustainability. Mayor Keller’s remarks centered around “the power of us,” acknowledging the common values and grit that bond residents even as they navigate big challenges and work to build a better future.

In his remarks, Mayor Keller noted how the city is doubling down on its public safety efforts in a manner that works for the community. These efforts include continuing to invest in the Albuquerque Community Safety response system, cracking down on guns this summer, addressing gaps in the criminal justice system, increasing support resources for police, and adding funding to address warrant backlogs. The Mayor shared progress the city has made, including an 8% reduction in violent crime, a 40% reduction in property crime, and over 170 murder suspect arrests in the past 17 months.

Mayor Keller discussed steps the city is taking to address housing and homelessness, such as using underutilized properties by converting hotels into affordable housing and proposing zoning changes to encourage development. The city continues providing wrap-around care at the Gateway Center, cleaning up encampments and getting individuals connected to services, and strengthening enforcement and outreach efforts to create safer communities. 

The Mayor is focused on improving the quality of life for residents across the city by nearly doubling the number of dog parks over the next few years, expanding pickleball and aquatics facilities, upgrading and building a new community and multi-generational centers, connecting historic neighborhoods with the Rail Trail, and giving residents access to world-class training for jobs in the film industry at the Rail Yards.

Watch Mayor Keller’s full address here.

Mayor Joshua Garcia
Holyoke, MA

Holyoke Mayor Joshua Garcia gave his State of the City Address, highlighting the city's progress in the past year, moving from crisis to recovery and shaping a prosperous future for the community. The Mayor’s priorities are the economy, city services, public safety, capital investments, and infrastructure. 

Mayor Garcia highlighted how the local economy is experiencing a strong resurgence, with the manufacturing sector revitalized and cannabis cultivation contributing significantly. Holyoke's diverse industries, including those with a global impact, have grown the tax base. The city's hydro-power capabilities are also making it attractive for future green energy endeavors. 

The Mayor emphasized the importance of a strong financial standing for the city’s success and is hiring a Chief Financial Administrative Officer who will streamline internal processes, revenue collection, financial forecasting, and capital planning. This new position aims to ensure continuity across administrations and equip future leaders to make informed decisions.

Mayor Garcia discussed Holyoke’s budget, presenting a budget surplus and noting they have been fiscally responsible without compromising essential services. The upcoming budget allows for capital improvements, such as infrastructure upgrades in City Hall and the police department, supported by additional ARPA funds. The Mayor lastly called for the construction of a new middle school, highlighting the urgent need to provide a state-of-the-art facility for students. 

Watch Mayor Garcia’s full address here.

Mayor Buddy Dyer
Orlando, FL

Orlando Mayor Buddy Dyer delivered his State of the City Address, focusing on "The Promise of Orlando," a city that offers opportunities for everyone to thrive. He emphasized the city's commitment to providing a high quality of life, ensuring public safety, promoting equal opportunities, and addressing affordable housing and homelessness challenges.

In his remarks, Mayor Dyer highlighted the achievements of the Orlando Police Department, which saw a 22% decrease in shootings and a 7% overall decrease in violent crime. He also applauded the work of the city’s Community Response Team, who have responded to 2,000 service calls over the past two years and helped save more than 2,200 hours of police time while responding to behavioral health crisis calls. 

The city remains dedicated to providing opportunities for all, including supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs. This year, $7.5 million has been committed to programs that assist businesses in starting and growing in Orlando. 

Mayor Dyer shared Orlando is actively addressing homelessness through partnerships, investments, and job placement programs, aiming to reduce the number of unsheltered residents and ensure no child sleeps on the streets. The city also continues to make efforts to increase access to affordable housing. Since 2015, more than 3,100 housing units have been supported or constructed to address the community's housing needs.

The Mayor also discussed efforts to improve residents' quality of life, including investing in parks and shared neighborhood spaces and making transportation more efficient and sustainable.

Watch Mayor Dyer’s full address here.

Mayor Ashleigh Aitken
Anaheim, CA

Mayor Ashleigh Aitken made Anaheim history as she became the first woman to deliver a State of the City Address. The Mayor centered her remarks on the theme of “We are Anaheim”, highlighting a renewed sense of hope and optimism in the city. She emphasized the city’s focus on residents and neighborhoods, economic recovery, small businesses, homelessness, affordable housing, and the city’s bright future. 

Mayor Aitken shared updates on how Anaheim is leading Orange County in addressing homelessness and affordable housing. Since 2019, homelessness in Anaheim has declined by 30% to just below 500 with the city’s 325-bed shelter and daily social worker outreach and case management. The city is now working to address the advanced stages of homelessness, including those living along freeways and railways, and with services for those struggling with mental health and substance use disorders.

On affordable housing, the Mayor shared that more than 6,000 households are supported with rental assistance through the city, including nearly 4,000 affordable apartments in Anaheim and nearly 40 entirely affordable communities with more on the way.

Anaheim’s economy continues a record turnaround from the pandemic with the recovery of hard-hit small businesses and continued growth for theme parks, conventions, sports, and entertainment. Mayor Aitken projected a bright future for Anaheim’s economy, mentioning upcoming developments such as the opening of vacation club hotel rooms at the Disneyland Hotel, new establishments in Downtown Disney, the return of Disneyland's Half Marathon Weekend, and the OCVibe project around the Honda Center. 

“Anaheim has been through a lot in the past few years. But in a testament to our people, our businesses and our city, we have come through it with resiliency and resolve. That same strength and determination will see us through any challenges to come. So, today, without reservation, I can tell you: The state of our city is strong,” said Mayor Aitken.

Watch Mayor Aitken’s full remarks here. 

Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud 
Dearborn, MI

Dearborn Mayor Abdullah H. Hammoud delivered his first State of the City Address entitled “Always Bet on Dearborn,” where he outlined achievements and his vision for the city’s future. The Mayor unveiled a new vision statement for the community and five strategic priorities to guide his administration’s work, including Innovative Government, Civic Engagement and Democracy, Economic Opportunity and Mobility, a Green and Healthy Dearborn, and Safety and Justice for All.

Mayor Hammoud outlined several accomplishments from his administration, including a partnership with Google Cloud to make the city a 24-7, multilingual service provider; a program that provides free books to Dearborn children; and local interventions to address the opioid crisis and hold accountable polluters in the city’s most vulnerable neighborhoods. 

He also shared renderings for three new parks that will be constructed in the city, part of a $30 million investment known as the PEACE (Parks Equity and Access for City Engagement) Parks Project.

Throughout his remarks, Mayor Hammoud stressed the importance of investing in people, declaring Dearborn as “the talent hub of the State of Michigan.” Noting Dearborn’s proportion of youth—nearly 40% of the city is under 24, saying companies within driving distance would want the “Dearborn hustle” powering their organizations. 

Mayor Hammoud announced that he had submitted a balanced budget for the first time in two decades, which he said was achieved without cutting services or deferring needed investments. Other major highlights from his remarks include a $1 million investment to remove log jams in the Rouge River, a joint initiative with Google Cloud and ACCESS to provide 500 free Google certifications to residents, and decreased auto accidents and racial disparities in traffic stops. 

Watch Mayor Hammoud’s full address here.

Mayor Cavalier Johnson
Milwaukee, WI

Milwaukee Mayor Cavalier Johnson delivered his State of the City Address on the theme of “One Milwaukee,” emphasizing the importance of unity and collaboration in addressing the challenges facing the city. His priorities include public safety, equitable economic opportunity, and ​​city services that meet the need of every community member. 

Mayor Johnson acknowledged the strong economy in Milwaukee, with a low unemployment rate, and highlighted the ongoing construction projects and companies choosing to invest in the city, such as Milwaukee Tool and Fiserv. He also mentioned the resurgence of the hospitality sector and the city’s efforts to attract more tourism and convention activity.

In his remarks, he discussed the importance of investing in the city’s youth and addressing the root causes of crime and violence. The Mayor highlighted several organizations and programs that provide positive engagement opportunities for young people, including the Camp Rise program.

The Mayor also addressed public safety, particularly the issue of reckless driving. He outlined the city’s comprehensive approach to addressing reckless driving, including staff coordination, education, roadway physical changes, and enforcement measures.

Lastly, Mayor Johnson spoke at length about the fiscal future of Milwaukee and his long-term vision to repair its well-being. The Mayor noted extensive discussions and negotiations with state leaders, highlighting the potential implementation of a two percent city sales tax, pending approval by the Milwaukee Common Council. Mayor Johnson emphasized the importance of the sales tax in ensuring the city’s ability to provide essential services and its positive impact on the city’s fiscal situation.

“I believe in Milwaukee. I believe in One Milwaukee.  We live in a community of new opportunities, new optimism, and renewed promise for all of us. Let’s make the most of it.  Let’s make our future something our children – and our children’s children – will celebrate,” said Mayor Johnson.

Watch Mayor Johnson’s full address here.

Mayor Paige G. Cognetti
Scranton, PA

Scranton Mayor Paige G. Cognetti delivered her State of the City Address, highlighting accomplishments and sharing community updates. Her priorities include increasing the quality of life for residents, building safer streets, delivering more efficient services, cutting red tape for residents and businesses, and leading a responsive city government. 

One of the significant achievements Mayor Cognetti acknowledged was that the city achieved an upgraded credit rating from S&P, which she attributed to years of hard work by multiple administrations. 

In her remarks, she highlighted several ongoing projects and initiatives in Scranton, including investing over $20 million back into the community. The projects include focusing on safe streets, such as implementing traffic pattern changes, conducting a walkability study, and applying for grants to improve road safety and raise awareness about speeding and bike safety. The city is also engaged in several affordable housing initiatives, including a home buyers assistance program and a workers’ housing program. 

Scranton remains committed to health and safety by addressing air quality issues, boosting mental health care access for first responders, and launching initiatives such as Lead Safe Scranton to address lead paint and lead pipe concerns. Additionally, Scranton is actively working on climate resiliency through partnerships with Penn State and developing a climate action plan.

Mayor Cognetti also acknowledged Scranton's positive momentum, attracting attention from state and national organizations and positioning the city as an attractive place for investments and events. 

Watch Mayor Cognetti’s full remarks here.

Mayor Sherman Lea
Roanoke, VA

Roanoke Mayor Sherman Lea delivered his State of the City Address, highlighting investments and accomplishments over the past year and his vision for the future. The Mayor’s priorities include education, public safety, housing, the opioid epidemic, infrastructure, workforce, and economic development. 

Mayor Lea shared housing investments Roanoke is leading, including several homes under construction with Habitat for Humanity. He highlighted how the city’s Homeless Assistance Team helped rehouse 219 individuals directly experiencing unsheltered homelessness last year. The city also launched a downpayment assistance program to help first-time buyers purchase a home in areas of the city that have historically been red-lined and are not financially able to afford the initial costs of buying a home. 

In his remarks, Mayor Lea highlighted how the council recently approved record funding support for Roanoke public schools and is committing over $100 million to support schools’ ongoing efforts to renovate and modernize facilities. 

“Over the years we have faced adversity and have overcome numerous challenges. And today is no different. We must continue to confront these harsh realities without forgetting they are still much more positivity and good happening in our community,” said Mayor Lea.

Watch Mayor Lea’s full address here.

Mayor Melanie Kebler
Bend, OR

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.

Mayor Sylvester Turner
Houston, TX

Houston Mayor Sylvester Turner delivered his final State of the City Address, “A Lasting Legacy,” highlighting his accomplishments over the past eight years and his legacy when his term ends. 

“Together, we have faced many storms – seven federally declared disasters in eight years. From floods or a freeze, from a Super Bowl or the pandemic, we rose and met the challenges of the day,” said Mayor Turner. “From inequities in neighborhoods investments to billions of dollars in pension unfunded liabilities, from One Safe Houston to One Clean Houston, we confronted each issue head on and set the City on firmer footing.”

In his remarks, Mayor Turner highlighted how his administration would leave a $420 million surplus to the next Mayor and how Houston’s pension liability has been reduced from $8.2 billion when he became Mayor to $2.2 billion.

The Mayor shared other achievements, including reducing homelessness, increasing summer youth employment, and being designated the first-child-friendly city in the U.S. by UNICEF. Mayor Turner also discussed upcoming major infrastructure projects, such as the Solid Waste Northeast Transfer Station, the North Canal Stormwater Project, the Lake Livingston Flood Water-gates, and the I-45 Expansion project. 

Watch Mayor Turner’s full address here. 

Read Mayor Turner’s legacy book here, which details the Mayor’s achievements and legacy of resilience and transformation during his administration.

Mayor Dean Trantalis
Fort Lauderdale, FL

Fort Lauderdale Mayor Dean Trantalis gave his State of the City Address, reflecting on the significant challenges and successes the community has endured over the past year. His priorities include infrastructure, transportation, education, public safety, affordable housing, homelessness, climate action, economic development, tourism, and quality of life. 

In his remarks, Mayor Trantalis highlighted the city's resilience during a massive storm in April that caused significant flooding, the community's response to the disaster, and the support from various organizations and government partners. The Mayor also announced the "Fortify Lauderdale" initiative, a plan to invest up to half a billion dollars in stormwater infrastructure construction in more than 17 neighborhoods to make the city more resilient against flooding and climate change. 

Mayor Trantalis discussed transportation plans, including developing a commuter rail system and pursuing a tunnel under the New River to relieve traffic and avoid further division in the community. He also emphasized the importance of public safety and announced the construction of a new police headquarters, increased police force, and improved crime detection and documentation technology.

Mayor Trantalis shared the city's commitment to affordable housing and its efforts to address homelessness through outreach teams, services, and community court programs.

Watch Mayor Trantalis’ full address here.

Mayor Sheng Thao
Oakland, CA

Oakland Mayor Sheng Thao delivered her first State of the City Address, where she laid out a clear vision for her community with an agenda focused on community safety, homelessness, affordable housing, economic opportunity, and clean and healthy neighborhoods.

Mayor Thao is focused on implementing a comprehensive approach to community safety that supports a robust police department, strengthens violence prevention programs, and leverages technology. She highlighted actions her administration has taken over the past ten months and her plans for the future, including adding new community ambassadors, installing new license plate reading technology, and strengthening Operation Ceasefire. 

In her remarks, the Mayor discussed how the city is creating a healthy affordable housing pipeline, including $200 million for creating and acquiring affordable housing, $53 million in grant funding from the state to construct 1,000 affordable units, and the preservation of 134 affordable units through city programming. Mayor Thao also shared Oakland’s approach to homelessness, which is focused on coordinating critical care and wrap-around services to help unhoused residents find a path off the streets.

The Mayor noted ways the city is increasing economic opportunities for all residents by creating more green jobs, streamlining processes to start a business or build a house, developing a film council to encourage entertainment production in Oakland, and recruiting businesses to the city. 

Watch Mayor Thao’s full address here.

Mayor Matt Mahan
San Jose, CA

In his first State of the City Address, San Jose Mayor Matt Mahan emphasized the importance of unity among the city's residents and the need for a safer, more prosperous, and peaceful future for all. His priorities include public safety, mental health, homelessness, affordable housing, blight, and economic investment.  

Public safety is a key priority for Mayor Mahan, and he acknowledged efforts to make San Jose the safest big city in America once again, including doubling the rate of hiring police officers, addressing issues related to sideshows, utilizing new tools such as license plate readers, and implementing a zero-tolerance policy for drug-related activities. The city seeks to hold repeat offenders accountable while promoting mental health reforms to make the city safer and more humane.

Mayor Mahan discussed the ongoing homelessness crisis in San Jose, acknowledging the challenges and the need for a comprehensive solution. The city has taken action by providing safe, dignified interim placements for those living in encampments and increasing the construction of affordable housing. 

The Mayor also encouraged community involvement and volunteerism. He emphasized the importance of keeping neighborhoods safe, preparing for emergencies, and supporting small businesses. 

Watch Mayor Mahan’s full address here.

Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba
Jackson, MS

Jackson Mayor Chokwe Antar Lumumba delivered his State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s successes and challenges, his vision for moving the community forward, and the city leaders helping to make change possible. 

Public safety remains a top priority for the Mayor, and he commended the service of Jackson’s Fire and Police Departments. Mayor Lumumba praised the fire department for its status as one of the highest-rated fire departments in Mississippi. He also spotlighted an increase in the number of police officers and the implementation of several new tools to enhance public safety, including new investments in the real-time crime center, launching a drone program, and procuring body cameras for all officers.

The Mayor announced the establishment of the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery, which aims to address not only law enforcement aspects of violence but also mental health obstacles, community support, and trauma recovery. Mayor Lumumba emphasized the importance of addressing mental health challenges and providing support to youth and families impacted by violence. 

He then recognized several city departments’ contributions to Jackson’s continued progress, including efforts to digitize and modernize city operations, actions to protect the city from cyber threats, and implementing progressive policies, such as parental leave and 100% covered healthcare premiums for city employees. 

Watch Mayor Lumumba’s full address here. 

Mayor Van Johnson
Savannah, GA

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.

Mayor Quentin Hart
Waterloo, IA

Waterloo Mayor Quentin Hart delivered his State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s achievements, ongoing initiatives, and future goals. His priorities include community engagement, housing, infrastructure, sustainability, public safety, economic development, downtown revitalization, and recreation. 

Mayor Hart shared public safety updates, including the Waterloo Police Department reaching full staffing levels, and he applauded the department's seizure of over 180 firearms. He also recognized the Fire Department for their innovative initiatives, including bringing dogs back into service and dedicating a frontline ambulance to the North End Grove.

The Mayor also shared infrastructure developments, highlighting Waterloo Fiber, which will provide high-speed internet access to every home and business once finished. Mayor Hart discussed a $2.5 million federal grant allocated to improve traffic safety operations and the strides the city is making with sustainability to be a carbon-free community.

Waterloo is actively working on housing initiatives, aiming to redevelop, renovate, or improve over 800 residences, and has already reported 245 new housing units. 

Watch Mayor Hart’s full address here. 

Mayor Ed Gainey
Pittsburgh, PA

Pittsburgh Mayor Ed Gainey delivered his State of the City Address, outlining his vision for the coming year and the many accomplishments of the various city departments in 2023. In his remarks, he shared his three goals for the community: making Pittsburgh the safest city in America, becoming the most welcoming city in America, and being a city where everyone who calls Pittsburgh home can thrive. 

Mayor Gainey emphasized that the budget is about the future of the next generation of city residents and their ability to thrive every day. He highlighted one of the city’s newest initiatives, City in the Streets, which are neighborhood events allowing citizens to speak directly with city officials about their concerns. 

The Mayor touted Pittsburgh’s selection by the White House to be one of only five workforce hubs and said it reinforces the idea that the city is a national leader in workforce development. Mayor Gainey also noted that infrastructure has been a major priority for his administration since the collapse of the Fern Hollow Bridge, and the city now has a roadmap defining the status of every city-owned structure and the investment necessary for each asset. 

Mayor Gainey shared the city’s partnership with the Urban Redevelopment Authority and Pittsburgh Land Bank, which makes it possible to reduce blight to further neighborhood development. His address also highlighted proposed public safety investments in people, programs, and vehicles. 

Watch Mayor Gainey’s full address here. 

Mayor Aftab Pureval
Cincinnati, OH

Cincinnati Mayor Aftab Pureval gave his State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s transformative trajectory and emphasizing achievements, major projects, and future initiatives. His ongoing priorities as Mayor include responsible growth, climate action, resiliency, infrastructure, affordable housing, neighborhood development, transportation, and economic opportunity. 

Public safety remains a top priority for Mayor Pureval, with substantial efforts underway to enhance resources and staffing for police and fire departments. This includes initiatives such as the Alternative Response to Crisis program, which connects residents to essential services and eases law enforcement workload. The Mayor also acknowledged ongoing challenges, particularly gun violence affecting communities, stressing the need for comprehensive approaches and the city’s ongoing efforts to combat these concerns. 

Mayor Pureval highlighted ongoing efforts toward housing development, transportation improvements, and equitable neighborhood revitalization. He discussed progress in affordable housing and systemic changes in housing policies and outlined plans for connected communities to promote mixed housing types to create vibrant, accessible neighborhoods. 

The Mayor emphasized the city’s commitment to addressing systemic barriers faced by residents of color through initiatives such as the Cincinnati Financial Freedom Blueprint, which aims to dismantle barriers contributing to the racial wealth gap. Mayor Pureval also highlighted other programs, such as the Access to Counsel, Medical Debt Relief, and Child Savings Accounts, which aim to empower residents and bridge gaps in financial equity.

Watch Mayor Pureval’s full remarks here.

Mayor Regina Romero
Tucson, AZ

Tucson Mayor Regina Romero celebrated her inaugural celebration and delivered her annual report, where she discussed her accomplishments, collaboration with council members, community partnerships, and plans for 2024. Her ongoing priorities as Mayor include building safe neighborhoods, fighting climate change, creating affordable housing, securing safe water, attracting good jobs, and improving quality of life.

Mayor Romero emphasized innovative approaches beyond traditional policing, such as the Place Network Investigation program, resulting in a substantial 75% reduction in gun violence. She also announced the launch of the 311 system to meet to non-urgent social needs, easing the burden on emergency services and ensuring residents have a streamlined access point to city services.

Addressing housing and homelessness, the Mayor highlighted the Housing First program's success, assisting vulnerable populations by providing housing and other support services. The program's coordinators have served nearly 1,000 residents and moved over 650 people into permanent housing. 

Mayor Romero shared the city's climate work, including initiatives like Tucson Resilient Together, securing grants for bus fleet transition, developing resilient building codes, and investing in urban forestry programs to combat the effects of climate change. The Mayor also discussed plans for economic growth, focusing on the Transform Tucson Initiative and collaborations that resulted in substantial capital attraction, small business support, and the establishment of Arizona's only Green Bank. 

Watch Mayor Romero’s full address here.

Mayor LaToya Cantrell
New Orleans, LA

New Orleans Mayor LaToya Cantrell closed out 2023 by delivering her State of the City Address, highlighting the city’s continued progress and her vision for the community’s future. The Mayor’s priorities include infrastructure, public safety, youth engagement, economic and workforce development, small businesses, quality of life, and cultural investments.  

A key highlight of the Mayor’s remarks was the city’s infrastructure initiatives. Mayor Cantrell detailed investments such as the West Complex Power Plant, green infrastructure developments, and the installation of smart meters. Additionally, she stressed the successful management of federal grants for these initiatives to enhance the city’s resilience to flooding and improve infrastructure reliability.

Mayor Cantrell spotlighted the city’s holistic approach to public safety, including collaborating with law enforcement agencies, establishing mobile crisis intervention units, and launching trauma centers to support victims of crime. She also noted the importance of addressing mental health issues and implementing strategies to curb violent crime rates in the city, which have led to a decrease in homicides and violent crime over the past year.

The Mayor shared updates on youth engagement initiatives, underscoring programs such as the Pathways Program, the Mayor’s Youth Employment Program, and mental health services through the Thrive Kids initiative. 

Watch Mayor Cantrell’s full remarks here.