Mayor's Media Update| November 12, 2025

The City of Savannah held a media update on November 12, 2025, where Mayor Johnson discussed several community and government issues, including the ongoing federal government shutdown and its impact on local services. A significant portion of the update focused on the city's response to food insecurity, with the city allocating approximately $50,000 to purchase 1,400 food boxes for residents affected by the shutdown. The mayor also highlighted upcoming public meetings regarding a proposed storm water utility fee, intended to fund long-term storm water infrastructure maintenance and reduce reliance on the general fund. The city has $60 million in dedicated funding from a special purpose local option sales tax (SPLS) for storm water capital projects, and the utility fee is expected to begin mid-2026 if approved by the city council. Additionally, the city council's November meeting will address alcohol licenses, purchasing items, new water and sewer agreements, and an intergovernmental fire services agreement with the sister city of Vernenberg. These discussions indicate active procurement and budget planning efforts related to infrastructure and public services.