Held at Christine Emerson Reed Park and the newly reopened Miles Memorial Playhouse, the event marked the start of the city’s 150th anniversary, drawing over 700 residents
Santa Monica’s Mayor Lana Negrete took center stage at the 2025 State of the City event on July 17, delivering a heartfelt address that framed the gathering as a celebration of resilience and community spirit.
Held at Christine Emerson Reed Park and the newly reopened Miles Memorial Playhouse, the event marked the start of the city’s 150th anniversary, drawing over 700 residents with performances by Downbeat 720, String Theory, and Los Angeles Performance Practice’s BRIDGE THE GAPS initiative, alongside interactive booths.
Negrete, a Santa Monica native, opened with personal reflections: “This was my childhood park. I spent so many days here growing up—from watching my dad perform at the Miles to picnicking under the trees, just like many of you are doing tonight.” She chose the location intentionally, calling the Miles “a symbol of resilience” and acknowledging challenges like homelessness: “We know that we still have a ways to go. The regional and countywide issues surrounding homelessness have shifted over the decades, and we must continue to pivot and adjust the way we address them.”
The mayor celebrated progress, noting, “Four brand-new officers are graduating and will soon join the Santa Monica Police Department. It’s a testament to the significant work underway to increase public safety in our community.” She also addressed economic shifts: “Our traditional revenue streams of tourism, retail sales, and entertainment have all seen fundamental shifts. The fact is that the world has changed, and so must Santa Monica.” Negrete invited broader participation, saying, “My goal as mayor is not to only engage those who are always engaged. It’s to reach every resident… and make sure they feel seen, heard, and invited to be part of shaping our future.”
