(CLAIR | Simi Valley, CA) — This year’s State of the City Address will not simply review civic statistics—it will plant seeds of vision and hope. Part reflection, part roadmap, the event offers a chance to take stock, confront challenges, and look ahead as a community. In a time when cities across Ventura County are working to preserve what makes them special while preparing for the future, Simi Valley’s leaders are always looking at what’s working, what’s changing, and which direction the city needs to take next.
Mayor Dee Dee Cavanaugh will deliver the 2025 State of the City Address on Wednesday, May 28, at the Simi Valley Cultural Arts Center, 3050 Los Angeles Avenue. Doors open at 11 a.m. with hors d’oeuvres and time to connect. The formal presentation begins at noon. Admission is free, but space is limited and advance registration is required at www.svvac.org/state-of-the-city. A recording will be posted online following the event. In accordance with the Brown Act, the gathering will be conducted as a Special Meeting of the Simi Valley City Council.
So why do cities hold these kinds of events? At their best, a State of the City isn’t just another speech—it’s a civic moment. It gives local leaders a chance to talk directly to the people they serve, not just about what’s been done, but about what’s next. It’s where mayors explain how money is being spent, what projects are underway, and how challenges are being tackled. More than anything, it’s about connecting the dots: showing how city decisions shape everyday life, and inviting the community to be part of the work ahead.
Simi Valley is home to just over 124,000 residents and continues to evolve. In recent years, the city has added housing, expanded youth and cultural programs, and upgraded public safety services. It remains one of the safest cities in California, a point of pride that reflects both city leadership and strong community engagement.
At the same time, Simi Valley—like every community in the region—is working to balance development with quality of life. Ongoing efforts to attract and retain businesses, invest in infrastructure, and support residents are all part of a broader conversation about what it means to grow while staying grounded.
Despite the challenges, there’s plenty to feel good about. From scenic hiking trails and family-friendly parks to neighborhood schools and longstanding local businesses, the city continues to offer a high quality of life. Its people—civic-minded, hardworking, and deeply rooted—are its greatest strength.
The May 28 address won’t just be a report. It will be a reflection of what makes Simi Valley strong—and a call to help shape what comes next.
