Van Johnson on Growth, Ghosts, and Good Government: Savannah Mayor Gets Candid

Mayor Van Johnson of Savannah, Georgia, brought his signature candor, humor, and unflinching dedication to public service to a national audience this week on The Good Government Show podcast. In a wide-ranging interview with host Dave Martin, the Brooklyn-born mayor reflected on everything from stormwater infrastructure and affordable housing to ghosts, Girl Scout cookies, and Savannah’s role as one of America’s most charming and complex cities.

Johnson shared his journey from Erasmus Hall High School in New York to Savannah State University at age 16, and eventually to City Hall, where he has served for over two decades. “I graduated high school early, became freshman class president, and never stopped being involved,” he said. “Government has always been in my blood.” His background as a police officer and public administrator gives him what he calls “both sides of the badge,” a perspective that shaped Savannah’s response to national calls for police reform after George Floyd’s murder.

During the interview, Mayor Johnson highlighted recent accomplishments, including maintaining the city’s lowest millage rate since 1987 while overseeing major growth. He proudly spoke of Savannah’s ability to “live off our growth” and emphasized ongoing investments in homelessness, affordable housing, and public safety. “Being present is the heart of good government,” he said. “You’ll find me at the churches, barber shops, nightclubs, street corners—wherever my people are.”

From joking about being blamed for the weather to recounting Savannah’s massive St. Patrick’s Day parade and its booming Hyundai EV plant, Mayor Johnson gave listeners a vivid portrait of a city that is both steeped in history and pushing boldly into the future. As he put it: “Savannah punches above its weight. And I’ll keep showing up every day to make sure it stays that way.”