Progress and Possibility: Homestead Looks Ahead in State of the City Address

Infrastructure, expanded recreation and an emerging aerospace industry were central themes of Mayor Steven Losner’s 2026 State of the City address Sept. 29 at Homestead City Hall.

An impressive backdrop bearing the words “Progress and Possibility” provided a popular gathering place for photographs before the ceremony. The event came as the fiscal year drew to a close following passage of the city’s new budget.

A video featuring Losner and council members at locations throughout Homestead set the tone for an evening focused on accomplishments and plans. Following the invocation, presentation of colors and Pledge of Allegiance, Vice Mayor Jenifer Bailey highlighted quality-of-life improvements and downtown activities at Losner Park and along Krome Avenue.

Bailey introduced U.S. Rep. Carlos Gimenez as a strong partner and advocate for Homestead.

“Yes, I have seen Homestead change. The work you have done is amazing,” Gimenez told the mayor and council.

The congressman discussed $2.2 million for critical infrastructure and emphasized the importance of local officials clearly communicating their community’s needs.

“My job is to make sure you get your fair share of federal tax dollars,” he said.

Gimenez encouraged Homestead’s efforts to attract aerospace and other technology companies and described Homestead Air Reserve Base as a strategic asset. He also said the U.S. Air Force had nominated the base to receive F-35A aircraft. He presented Losner with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition.

The opening notes of the “Star Wars” theme accompanied the mayor’s introduction. Losner joked that he did not have a lightsaber before departing from the usual practice of saving acknowledgments for the end.

He first thanked his wife for the “love, support, guidance and strength of our lovely first lady,” drawing applause.

Losner also recognized former city officials and the work of Homestead’s state legislative delegation, including Sen. Anna Maria Rodriguez and Rep. Kevin Chambliss. He said legislators secured $6 million in state funding for Homestead, of which $2 million survived the veto process. He praised Gimenez’s efforts on the city’s behalf in Washington.

Throughout the approximately 22-minute address, the mayor expressed an “enormous sense of pride in our shared community.”

Some of the most important work, he acknowledged, is difficult to showcase. Wastewater and sewage improvements may be among the least photogenic projects, but they are essential to opening businesses and improving downtown. Completing that work now, he said, provides a foundation for redevelopment without repeatedly digging up the same streets.

Recreation projects received considerable attention.

Losner said the reimagining of Homestead Regional Park as a sports hub remains on track, with plans for the historic Homestead Rodeo to move into a 10,000-seat stadium in 2029. The broader project includes opportunities for professional soccer, other sports, concerts, festivals and expanded green space.

He also highlighted Homestead-Miami Speedway’s return as the host of NASCAR Championship Weekend in 2027, describing the announcement as another sign of Homestead’s growing visibility in the sports world.

Improvements at the Tom Harris Field Complex will include fields, seating, lighting and concessions to accommodate football, high school competition, Little League and pavilion events. Other city parks also continue to receive attention.

Economic development was another major focus.

Losner described the Park of Commerce as the realization of a decades-long vision positioning Homestead at the forefront of an emerging aerospace, spaceport and national security industry in Deep South Dade.

He identified World One Aero Solutions, AST SpaceMobile and Global Engine Stands among companies operating there. The mayor cited approximately 800,000 square feet of buildings and loading docks, with another 400,000 square feet approved.

The city receives weekly inquiries from national and international technology and defense-related companies, he said. Such businesses offer the potential for higher-paying jobs and a broader local economic base.

Closer to downtown, Losner recognized restaurants including Sake Pase, JJ’s Cuisine and Sushi Sake. He said Flanigan’s, which catered the evening’s event, would break ground soon. He also mentioned Miller’s Ale House, First Watch and Shake Shack among Homestead’s expanding dining options.

In closing, Losner described a city moving forward “with purpose and passion,” guided by a vision developed thoughtfully.

He credited the council’s different perspectives and personalities, asking members to stand, and recognized City Manager Dr. Nzeribe Ihekwaba and city staff.

The mayor also praised Police Chief Mario Knapp for advancing a department he described as ethical, visible and involved in the community.

The evening’s message linked those efforts: infrastructure to support businesses, recreation to improve daily life, public safety to build trust and economic development to create opportunities for Homestead residents.