Community Leaders to Know: Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington
Kesha Hodge Washington is the first African-American woman to be elected to the Phoenix City Council. She was sworn in as District 8 Councilmember on April 17, 2023, and selected Vice Mayor on January 7, 2026.
As the first African American woman elected to the Phoenix City Council and now Vice Mayor, how has your journey shaped your vision for building stronger, more equitable communities in Downtown Phoenix?
Serving on the Phoenix City Council and now as Vice Mayor has reinforced my belief that leadership should be grounded in service, access, and opportunity for all residents. My journey has shaped my commitment to ensuring that every voice is heard and that decisions reflect the real experiences of the people who live and work in our City.
In Downtown Phoenix, that means intentional and inclusive growth. As our urban core continues to evolve, I want to make sure residents, businesses, and families are part of that progress. My vision is centered on balanced development that strengthens neighborhoods, expands opportunity, and ensures everyone benefits from the city’s momentum. This is what guarantees that Phoenix remains a place where everyone can live, work, play, and thrive.
Given priorities such as housing, economic development, and homelessness, how do you see your work creating tangible opportunities and support for residents across Downtown Phoenix?
Housing, economic development, and homelessness are interconnected priorities that directly impact the quality of life in Downtown Phoenix. My focus is on creating and furthering practical solutions that provide stability and opportunity for residents. That includes expanding affordable and workforce housing options, encouraging thoughtful development, and supporting policies that keep people housed. Intentional investments and partnerships in projects like The Moreland and Downtown Phoenix Inc. Community Resource Hub are examples of these principles.
On economic development, I am committed to strengthening businesses, attracting responsible investment, and connecting residents to good-paying jobs. Addressing homelessness requires continued coordination, prevention efforts, and long-term housing solutions. Those are the bedrock principles of the City’s refreshed Strategies to Address Homeless Plan (STAHP) which, as the Community Services and Education (CSE) Subcommittee Chair, I helped craft and champion. My goal is to ensure Downtown Phoenix is not only thriving economically, but also supportive, stable, and welcoming for everyone.
During Black History Month, what message or legacy do you hope to leave for young leaders and Black communities shaping the future of Downtown Phoenix?
During Black History Month, I reflect on the importance of leadership, service, and perseverance. I am always reinvigorated by the tenacity and ingenuity of past leaders and the hope for our present and future. My message to young leaders is that their voice matters and their participation in civic life is essential. The future of Downtown Phoenix will be shaped by those willing to step forward, engage, and lead with integrity.
I hope the legacy I leave is one of collaboration, accountability, and a commitment to building a city where opportunity is accessible and progress is shared. Leadership is about creating pathways for others, and I am committed to ensuring the next generation has the tools and encouragement to shape the future of our community.
The solution to ending homelessness is housing, and in my first two years I championed the Eviction Legal Services Program, which provides free legal representation to eligible tenants facing eviction. This month the City broke ground on The Moreland affordable housing development, and I continue to push for more funding in the Housing Trust Fund. I see these projects doing exactly what they were intended to do, put roofs over the heads of our most vulnerable neighbors.
Click here to learn more about Vice Mayor Kesha Hodge Washington's background and role with the City of Phoenix.