The newly-reelected Mayor Freddy Puza’s “State of the City” speech on Nov. 12, 2026 was a moment of inspired celebration for the community, and a reflection of the previous year’s challenges and accomplishments. The Kirk Douglas Theater was crowded with supporters along side city staff and local elected officials, and the mood was buoyant with the post-election wave of success.
After a reception in the lobby, Puza opened with a short video, walking through the year’s many notable moments.
There was some gorgeous harmony offered by a performance of Voices United Los Angeles, an LGTBQ choral group, and an official welcome from Los Angeles County Supervisor Holly J. Mitchell.
Mitchell lauded Puza’s dedication and success in housing, recalling the opening of Project Homekey, and the ground breaking of Jubilo Village. “Freddy has been walking the walk, the whole way.”
Prayers and blessings were offered by community faith leaders; Rabbi Zach Shapiro of Temple Akiba, Director Arif Sayed of the King Fahad Mosque, Dr. Rhona Windham of Soka Gokkai International, and Pastor Marvin Winans, Jr. of Perfecting Home Church all offered their thoughts.
Puza’s speech covered a multitude of issues, from the 75th anniversary of Fiesta La Ballona, “enjoyed by more than 35,000 people,” to the newly established Commission on Women and Girls. He offered “… hope is grounded in progress…and a government working to include more voices. Hope isn’t just believing tomorrow will be better, hope is knowing we have the ability to make it better.”
His reflection on the success of the World Cup events, and the upcoming Olympics, also included his thanks to Council member Dan O’Brien, who put in his time and effort in cultivating the connections.
Puza enthused “I began my year as mayor believing that a new day was possible, and today I believe it even more, because I have seen what this community can accomplish when we work together.”
Puza reflected after the event that “It was a powerful reminder that what makes Culver City special isn’t just what we’ve accomplished, but the people who make it all possible.”
A final musical flourish came from Farah “Firefly” Mitha, who sang and led the crowd in some dancing, celebrating the spirit of the community.
Judith Martin-Straw
