Overview:
Originally scheduled to cover the Blue Origin space launch, Presence News shifted focus to a more grounded but equally visionary event: the 93rd Annual Meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors in Tampa, Florida. Featuring over 170 mayors from across the country, this year’s summit addressed critical urban challenges—from housing and gun violence to climate resilience and youth engagement. Presence News captured key remarks from several dynamic speakers, including Mayor Rex Richardson (Long Beach), Mayor Ras Baraka (Newark), Mayor Jane Castor (Tampa), Mayor Jerry Dyer (Fresno), Mayor Jim Ross (Arlington), and Mayor Brandon Scott (Baltimore). Each offered insights and solutions relevant to the cities of today and tomorrow.
TAMPA, FL — June 21, 2025
With the Blue Origin rocket launch canceled due to stormy weather, the spotlight turned to a different kind of launch—one of national collaboration and visionary leadership. Presence News joined city leaders at the 93rd Annual Meeting of the U.S. Conference of Mayors. It was held in vibrant Tampa, Florida. This influential gathering brought together more than 170 mayors from across the nation to share ideas. They also tackled challenges and shaped policy for a stronger urban future.
From rising housing costs to policing reform, from sustainability to small business recovery, the conference was a powerful reminder. America’s cities are often the first to respond to the country’s most urgent issues.
Presence News captured live footage and exclusive commentary from six high-profile mayors who spoke on panels and during general sessions. Courteous of CSPAN of course
Featured Speakers and Highlights
Mayor Rex Richardson – Long Beach, CA
A rising star in municipal leadership, Mayor Richardson emphasized inclusive economic growth. He also focused on the role of tech equity in bridging opportunity gaps. He discussed Long Beach’s work in supporting workforce development. The city also fosters innovation among underrepresented communities.
Mayor Ras Baraka – Newark, NJ
Known for his bold leadership style, Mayor Baraka spoke passionately about gun violence prevention and community trust. He shared how Newark’s partnership-driven approach has reduced crime. The approach invests in youth engagement programs. “We need to build trust through transparency, not just more enforcement,” he said.
Watch Presence News video of Mayor Baraka’s speech [YouTube Link]
Mayor Jane Castor – Tampa, FL (Host Mayor)
Mayor Castor welcomed her fellow leaders to her hometown. She reflected on Tampa’s rapid growth and investment in green infrastructure. As a former police chief, she also led discussions on data-driven public safety and community-police collaboration.
Watch Presence News video of Mayor Castor’s speech [YouTube Link]
Mayor Jerry Dyer – Fresno, CA
Mayor Dyer addressed the climate crisis head-on. He warned of worsening droughts and extreme heat events in Central California. His remarks urged federal and state agencies to collaborate more efficiently. They need to work with local governments to safeguard water access and protect vulnerable populations.
Watch Presence News video of Mayor Dyer’s speech [YouTube Link]
Mayor Jim Ross – Arlington, TX
Mayor Ross highlighted Arlington’s innovative use of public-private partnerships to support transit, housing, and sports tourism. He spoke about using city infrastructure as a tool for empowerment, not displacement.
Watch Presence News video of Mayor Ross’s speech [YouTube Link]
Mayor Brandon Scott – Baltimore, MD
Always forward-thinking, Mayor Scott focused on generational wealth building through small business investment and homeownership programs. These initiatives target Baltimore’s underserved neighborhoods. His speech called for local governments to “flip the system” to favor everyday residents instead of special interests.
Watch Presence News video of Mayor Scott’s speech [YouTube Link]
A Blueprint for Urban Progress
This year’s conference was not just about talk—it was about transformation. With mayors representing cities of every size and region, the recurring message was clear. The future of the U.S. is being written in its cities. Despite partisan gridlock in Washington, mayors are pushing forward with urgency, creativity, and accountability.
As the conference came to a close, attendees left energized. They were armed with new ideas and committed to a shared mission: to make American cities safer, more just, and more sustainable.
Presence News will continue to share exclusive clips and in-depth recaps from the conference. These will be available on our YouTube and social media platforms.
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