RECAP: State of the Town 2025 "Blazing Trails, Building Legacy"

Published on April 22, 2025

MARANA- Mayor JonPost outlined his plans for a vibrant future at the 2025 Marana State of the Town luncheon, held Thursday, April 17 at the Ritz-Carlton, Dove Mountain.

“Marana has a deep sense of identity, a strong connection to its history, and an even stronger vision for the future,” said Mayor Post. “Stepping into this role as your mayor, I don’t take that responsibility lightly. My vision is very simple: I plan to lead in a way that reflects my love for this town, my dedication to public service, and my drive to push Marana to new heights.”

Mayor Post went on to showcase the Marana Aquatic & Recreation Center, open May 3, and the plans for the future Downtown Marana, followed by transportation projects that will improve existing roadways and continue to prepare Marana for future growth.

Marana Police Chief Jeffrey Pridgett and Marana Unified School District Assistant Superintendent Kristin Reidy joined Mayor Post on stage to speak about their impacts in the community as part of the event’s theme “Blazing Trails, Building Legacy”.

The Education Recovery Scorecard…indicates that Marana Unified School District is in the top-1% of school districts that have “recovered” student achievement levels in Math and ELA post COVID,” said Reidy. “Our students and teachers have worked so hard to hit these achievement milestones. However, keep in mind this is just the beginning of our student achievement movement. It is about to get really exciting, and it would not be possible without the support of all of you, our community.”

“Every time we put on this badge, dispatch a call, process evidence, and process case reports, we carry forward the legacy of those who came before us,” said Chief Pridgett, “and our commitment remains as strong as ever. We have a saying in Marana PD: You call a cop, you get a cop.”

The event marked the first State of the Town since the passing of longtime Mayor Ed Honea in November 2024, and his legacy was honored throughout the event, including showing a tribute video and serving one of his favorite meals for lunch- a burger and fries.

500 people attended the sold-out event, held in partnership with Marana Chamber of Commerce.

KOLD-TV News Anchor Dan Marries served as emcee and Pastor Dale Moe of Light the Way Church led the opening prayer. Special thanks to the Marana Police Department and the Northwest Fire District for the Presentation of Colors along the Mountain View High School choir students for singing the National Anthem.

The Town also proudly recognized these outstanding individuals and organizations making a difference in Marana.

Youth Legacy Award: Bryce Falkoff

Branding Iron Award – Organization: Marana High School Dance Team, led by Coach Maya Alexander and the entire coaching staff

Branding Iron Award – Individual: Brad Despain, a dedicated pillar of the Marana community for over 60 years

PHOTO GALLERY