State of the City: Dayton leaders share vision for 2025

The Dayton Chamber of Commerce hosted its first luncheon of the New Year on Tuesday, Jan. 14, at the Dayton Community Center. The event, focused on the State of the City, featured addresses from Interim City Manager Derek Woods and Mayor Martin Mudd. Both leaders reflected on the challenges and opportunities Dayton faces as it continues to grow and evolve.

Interim City Manager Derek Woods, who also serves as Dayton’s police chief, shared his passion for public service and his gratitude for the warm welcome he received when he first joined the community three years ago. Appointed as interim city manager in November 2024, Woods acknowledged the transition has been a learning curve but emphasized his commitment to serving Dayton’s residents with integrity.

“I was welcomed into this city like I’ve been here my whole life, and that’s what makes Dayton great,” Woods said.

He praised the community’s spirit of volunteerism and involvement, citing groups like the Dayton Economic Development Corporation and youth sports associations as key to Dayton’s vibrant culture.

Drawing inspiration from Damon West’s book Be a Coffee Bean, Woods encouraged attendees to embrace change and growth while maintaining the community’s essence. The book uses a metaphor to illustrate how people respond to adversity. When placed in boiling water, a carrot becomes soft and weak while an egg hardens. A coffee bean, however, transforms the water itself, changing its environment for the better. Woods used this analogy to encourage Dayton residents to embrace change and growth while positively influencing their surroundings, working together to create a thriving community.

“Let’s all be coffee beans and work together. Let’s figure out how to coexist, so the new and old blend to create something remarkable,” he said.

Woods also pledged fiscal responsibility in managing taxpayer funds, promising careful evaluation of every city expenditure.

Mayor Martin Mudd, now in his second year as mayor, highlighted the city’s progress over the past year while addressing the challenges posed by rapid growth. He acknowledged the diverse perspectives on Dayton’s transformation but urged unity in embracing the city’s future.

“When we think of Dayton, some still envision the small farming town of yesteryear, while others see a city on the brink of transformation,” Mudd said. “Both perspectives capture the essence of Dayton.”

Mudd shared updates on infrastructure projects, including traffic improvements and utility upgrades. Among the key initiatives are the Clayton Water Well project, repairing old sewer lines, and the long-awaited Waco Street extension, set to begin in a few weeks. The Highway 90 overpass project near Waco Street is scheduled to start this summer.

Enhancements to parks and recreational facilities were also celebrated, including the completion of the bank shot park at Henderson Day Park and new pickleball courts at Parker Park. Mudd said these projects aim to improve residents’ quality of life.

The mayor also spotlighted the city’s economic development efforts, particularly the progress at Gulf Inland Logistics Park. With its first rail expansion since 2006 nearing completion, the park will bring significant tax revenue and job opportunities to Dayton.

Residential developments are on the rise as well, with new subdivisions such as Westpoint Villages, DR Horton/Medina, Forestar Development, MI Homes, and Davis Reserve set to add thousands of homes to the area.

Both Woods and Mudd called on residents to support Dayton’s schools, businesses, and community initiatives. Mudd emphasized the importance of the city’s Buy Local campaign, urging citizens to shop within Dayton whenever possible.

“Remember, with this growth comes great responsibility,” Mudd said. “How these newcomers experience our city is up to us. We must be the ambassadors of Dayton’s spirit.”