12/30/2025
To my fellow residents, friends, and neighbors:
As my time as your Mayor comes to an end, I find myself reflecting on the immense privilege it has been to serve the community that raised me. This office is a temporary stewardship, and as I get ready to return to the ranks of private citizenship, I want to share a few final thoughts on the progress we have made together and the bright future that lies ahead for our city.
A Foundation for the Future:
Over the course of this administration, our focus was never just on the challenges of the day, but on building a foundation that would last for generations. Together, we navigated the complexities of post-pandemic recovery, leveraging ARPA funding to inject critical dollars into our infrastructure, local non-profits, and the small businesses that form the backbone of our economy.
We moved forward with the East Gloucester and Veterans Memorial Elementary school project, a long-term investment in our children’s potential. We also remained steadfast in our support of the working waterfront, ensuring that our historic fishing industry and our commitment to climate resiliency remained at the forefront of our maritime policy. These achievements are not mine alone; they are the result of a community that refuses to stand still.
Gratitude to Our City Workforce:
I want to take this opportunity to once again thank the staff here at the City of Gloucester. The dedication of our public servants—from the DPW and public safety departments to the staff at City Hall and our schools—is what keeps this city running. Their commitment to excellence, often behind the scenes, is the engine of our progress. It has been an honor to work alongside the entire team here at the city.
Looking Ahead:
As a new term begins, I offer my sincere encouragement to the incoming members of the Gloucester City Council and the School Committee. The responsibility of governance is heavy, but I have complete confidence in your ability to serve with integrity and a focus on the common good.
Furthermore, I want to express my full and unwavering support for Mayor-elect Paul Lundberg. Paul is a dedicated leader who possesses the experience and the vision necessary to guide Gloucester through its next chapter. I am committed to a seamless transition and ask all residents to join me in supporting his administration as they work to ensure the continued prosperity of our city.
Closing:
Gloucester is more than a city; it is a family bound by history, harbor, and a shared sense of pride. Serving as your Mayor has been the greatest honor of my life. Thank you for your trust, your feedback, and your passion for this place we call home.
I look forward to seeing you all around town—on the boulevard, grabbing a bite to eat, and in the neighborhoods that make Gloucester the best place on earth.
With deep gratitude,
Greg V***a
Mayor of Gloucester
