I wanted to address this week’s City Council budget discussions and share my disappointment with several of the proposed cuts to investments that I believe are critical to Fort Wayne’s continued growth and progress.

Downtown Fort Wayne's success depends on strong partnerships and open dialogue. Today, I welcomed a group of downtown businesses, restaurants, and organizations for a roundtable discussion on the current state and future of our downtown. We had a productive conversation about what’s working, what needs improvement, and how we can strengthen downtown for everyone. I’m grateful for the honest conversations and the willingness of our partners to share their perspectives as we work together to shape downtown's future.

With all of the positive activity happening in Fort Wayne, we took a step back at tonight’s City Council meeting with mainly party-line votes on several cuts to the proposed 2027 City of Fort Wayne budget. I strongly believe the cuts were unnecessary. Please read my statement below.

This afternoon, it was a pleasure to celebrate the topping off ceremony for Sweetwater’s newly expanded warehouse. Sweetwater continues to grow and create opportunities in Fort Wayne. This new 170,000 sq. ft. addition represents another exciting investment in our community. Congratulations to the entire Sweetwater team on this exciting milestone!

Affordable housing is a critical need for Fort Wayne residents, especially our seniors. We’re adding more affordable housing in Southeast Fort Wayne and the Village Premier Neighborhood, creating new opportunities for seniors and families to find a quality place to call home.

My heart is heavy after learning of the passing of Matt Land. A friend to many and a loving husband and father, Matt dedicated 18 years of service to Fort Wayne City Utilities. Throughout his time with the City, he made a lasting impact through his work and commitment to our community. Beyond his professional contributions, I will remember Matt for his upbeat personality, laughter, and love of music. Please join me in keeping Matt’s family, friends, and his City Utilities colleagues in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

I am heartbroken by the passing of Fort Wayne Fire Department Captain Andrea Burton. Andrea dedicated herself to serving our city and the people of Fort Wayne. She was a respected leader, a devoted public servant, and, to so many, a friend whose kindness, encouragement, and positive spirit left a lasting impression. Her loss is deeply felt throughout the Fort Wayne Fire Department and across our community. We are grateful for her service, her leadership, and the difference she made in the lives of the people she worked alongside and served. My deepest condolences go to Andrea’s family, friends, fellow firefighters, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing her. Please keep them in your thoughts and prayers as they navigate this tremendous loss. Andrea’s service to Fort Wayne will not be forgotten. May she rest in peace.

Yesterday evening, city staff and I wrapped up our Neighborhood Walks series in the Memorial Park neighborhood. We talked with residents about sidewalks, new stop signs, and drainage challenges. Our team was there to listen, take notes, and identify ways we can address these concerns. Thank you to the residents for the warm welcome and for taking the time to share what matters most in your neighborhood!

I love this time of year, but it also means flu season is near. Now is the perfect time to get your flu shot!

Fort Wayne has a strong track record of responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. I’m proud to announce the proposed 2027 City of Fort Wayne budget, focused on the priorities that matter most to our residents. We’re investing in public safety, fixing more roads, building sidewalks, and strengthening our neighborhoods, while planning responsibly for Fort Wayne’s future.

Last night was a beautiful evening to continue our Neighborhood Walks series in Eastland Gardens. We enjoyed hearing from residents about what they love about southeast Fort Wayne and what they’d like to see improved in their neighborhood, like more sidewalks and lighting. Our city staff were there to listen and take notes. As a reminder to all of us, please slow down when driving through our neighborhoods. Lastly, a special thank you to Omay for volunteering her time to serve as our translator. We appreciate her helping us make sure everyone has a voice!

This afternoon, I had the pleasure of meeting Brent Amburgey, who will serve as Grand Marshal for the 28th annual DSANI Buddy Walk. We look forward to celebrating Brent and all of the participants on September 12 at Parkview Field!

Fort Wayne continues to take action against the opioid epidemic. I was pleased to announce that 14 local nonprofits will receive grants to support residents battling addiction. This third round brings our investment to $1.5 million, along with $40,000 in mini grants over the past two years. These organizations are making a difference through prevention, treatment, recovery, and harm reduction. This funding will help them reach even more of our neighbors.

Addressing homelessness has been a focal point of my administration, which is why I was deeply disappointed when five members of City Council voted against the Anchor Resource Center. That’s a decision each of those council members will have to own. This plan was the product of extensive planning, research, coordination, and vetting. It wasn't perfect, no plan ever is, but it would have opened a door for our unhoused residents to rebuild a new life. Tuesday's vote won't change who I am or how I lead. I will keep fighting with compassion because our most vulnerable neighbors deserve nothing less. I'll continue working with community partners, city staff, and residents to find a solution that serves our residents. All of them. In my letter to @JGfortwaynem, I share more on how and where our community goes from here. Read it here: bit.ly/4r29ewP

This afternoon, it was a pleasure to welcome a group of firefighters from our Sister City of Gera, Germany to Fort Wayne! Over the next few days, these firefighters will be training and working alongside the Fort Wayne Fire Department, while experiencing activities along our riverfront and dining at local restaurants.

Congratulations to @purduefw on the opening of the Surack–Sweetwater Music Industry Center! This incredible new facility gives students direct access to professional spaces and technology, while preparing them for careers in the music industry. Investments like this help strengthen our talent pipeline and move Fort Wayne closer to our goal of becoming a Top 10 Music City.