Mayor Van Johnson delivers 2025 State of the City address

by Lindsey Stenger

SAVANNAH, Ga. (WTOC) - Savannah Mayor Van Johnson delivered his annual State of the City address Wednesday night at the Otis S. Johnson Cultural Arts Center.

Johnson praised team Savannah for for the city’s work addressing public safety, affordable housing and storm water drainage.

According to Johnson, the state of Savannah is strong.

“Tonight, without pretense, I am proud to proclaim that Savannah is winning,” He said. “The state of our city is financially strong, foundationally deep, and forward thinking.”

He said that 2025’s budget saw nearly $41,000,000 in added revenue.

Mayor Johnson said the city already has big plans with that money.

This includes a future involving investments in rec center upgrades, traffic safety, trash pick up and facing homelessness, something the city has already begun to address.

“A good economy and sound budgeting and finance decisions means we can build 39 new cottages and 16 brand new apartments for folks exiting homelessness,” said Johnson.

Moving to the topic of Public Safety, according to city numbers, overall violence is down 3% and shootings are down 17%.

The mayor also says out of the 100 people who made it on the Savannah Police 10 Most Wanted List, 84 have been arrested.

“We must continue to work together to create a community where everyone feels safe in their neighborhoods, their homes, and in public places like our malls and shopping centers,” said Johnson. “But we are taking active steps to address crime.”

Mayor Johnson also says as a result of his recent ordinance to fine gun owners who had their firearms stolen out of locked cars, he reported a 40% decrease in stolen guns making their way back to the streets of Savannah.

The mayor also addressed sustainability, storm water infrastructure and transportation safety.

Overall he says Savannah is thriving and will continue to thrive.