Mayor Media Update| November 4, 2025

This City of Savannah mayoral media update on November 4, 2025, focused primarily on encouraging voter participation in key local and state elections, including the Public Service Commission and a special local option sales tax (SPLOST) that funds infrastructure and public safety projects without raising property taxes. The mayor emphasized the importance of SPLOST in supporting major capital improvements such as fire trucks and road projects, noting that nearly 40% of the sales tax revenue comes from visitors. The discussion highlighted the potential impact on infrastructure projects like Holland and Benton Boulevard and the President Street overpass if the sales tax measure is not approved, as alternative funding sources are limited due to federal budget constraints. Additionally, the mayor announced a $50,000 city grant to American Second Harvest to help address food insecurity caused by the federal SNAP benefit disruption, with coordinated efforts alongside United Way and local nonprofits to distribute food boxes to affected households. The meeting also included updates on public safety initiatives and upcoming community engagement events. No new contracts or procurement awards were announced, but the discussion underscored the critical role of sales tax funding in enabling future capital projects and the city's proactive response to community needs amid federal funding shortfalls.