Baltimore Mayor Gives Final State Of The City Address

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- After stunning Baltimore by announcing she will not seek re-election, Mayor Stephanie Rawlings-Blake touts what she says are a number of positive accomplishments for the city during her final State of the City address.

Political reporter Pat Warren has more on what the mayor says matters most.

It has been the ability to make tough choices in the face of adversity.

WEB EXTRA: WATCH THE MAYOR'S ADDRESS:

It started with a promise.

"I made a promise to myself when I became mayor that I would leave this city in better condition than it was left for me," Rawlings-Blake said.

From demolition of blight to the construction of the future, Mayor Rawlings-Blake points out Baltimore has been undergoing change, but none as dramatic as the Freddie Gray riots.

"As I think back over the events of this past year, I am most proud of the resilience we have shown the world, our commitment to come back stronger than ever," she said.

She applauded Baltimore's first responders and called for better police/community relations.

Other improvements stretch back years: closing budget deficits, cleaning up neighborhoods.

"We will never stop dreaming big dreams for Baltimore but as elected leaders, we have an obligation to balance hope and optimism with reality and responsible stewardship," she said.

The economy is growing and, with it, a shared success.

"It has been the greatest honor of my life. Thank you, God bless you and God bless Baltimore," she said.

After 21 years in public office---first as a councilwoman and now as mayor---she reminded everyone that "we are not done."

Mayor Rawlings-Blake will continue to serve until the new mayor is inaugurated in December.