Mayors around the country host annual State of the City speeches that, much like their federal counterparts, highlight accomplishments and vision for the future. These events offer an opportunity to share information with local residents, community partners and business leaders. Mayors often use these speeches to address pressing issues they are concerned about, such as crime, affordable housing or economic development.
This year, a growing number of Mayors have been discussing civic engagement, efforts to improve the quality of local schools and programs that promote financial stability for all residents. In addition, Mayors have been encouraging their communities to embrace ridesharing services in order to reduce traffic congestion, air pollution and fuel costs.
A new trend in 2019 is a focus on climate change and the impact that it has on cities, towns and villages. Mayors are addressing this issue by promoting solar power, establishing greenhouse gas emission targets and investing in transit projects that reduce the need for personal vehicles.
A major challenge that Mayors are confronting is rising poverty and the lack of opportunities for working class citizens. This can be addressed by reducing taxes on low-income families, increasing funding for libraries and preschools and expanding access to child care. In New York City, the Mayor is taking a bold approach to combat these challenges by doubling investments in affordable housing and introducing new initiatives for working parents such as tax relief and free childcare. This year, the Mayor has also pledged $650 million to help address street homelessness.
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