New leadership announced for US mayors

The mayor of Columbus, Andrew Ginther (pictured), has been elected by close to 200 of his peers to lead the US Conference of Mayors over the next year.

After his election, Ginther spoke of his commitment to bipartisanship, particularly as the country faces presidential and congressional elections in November, and to use the united voice of mayors to solve big problems, such as housing and public safety.

“What defines mayors and this organisation—perhaps above anything else—is that we put solutions before partisanship,” he said. “We don’t have time for petty politics because people just expect us to get things done. And when we work together, when we bring more people to the table, all things are possible.”

The CEO and Executive Director of the Conference of Mayors, Tom Cochran, said mayors are eager for collaboration to face the nation’s challenges.

“Mayor Ginther knows what this conference can achieve when everyone works together and calls on their federal representatives to do so as well,” he said. “Cities and their residents will be better off thanks to Andrew Ginther’s leadership at the US Conference of Mayors.”

The annual meeting of mayors elected David Holt, Mayor of Oklahoma City, to serve as the organisation’s first vice president, and Todd Gloria, Mayor of San Diego, was elected second vice president. Trustees and advisory board members were also chosen.

The city leaders approved a slate of policy resolutions that will serve as the official platform of the organisation and guide its advocacy agenda for 2025. These include combating gun violence, addressing the mental health crisis, and continuing to improve cities’ affordability and quality of life. Other policies were adopted on issues including climate change, energy, housing, transport, and the economy.

Long Beach was announced as the host city for the 2026 annual meeting and Providence will host in 2027. Tampa is the location for the gathering next year.

Image: Josh Cogan/USCM