Mayor Kim Benda Announces Historic Celebration for America’s 250th Birthday & Anti-Corruption Initiative in Granite City
Granite City, IL – January 29, 2025 – Mayor Kim Benda has unveiled an ambitious plan to host one of the most spectacular celebrations in the nation for America’s 250th birthday in 2026, aligning Granite City with the national effort to honor this historic milestone. Additionally, Mayor Benda has pledged to root out corruption and restore integrity to city government, ensuring that Granite City’s future is built on transparency, accountability, and prosperity for all.
America’s 250th – A Celebration Like No Other
With the White House Task Force on Celebrating America’s 250th Birthday mobilizing efforts nationwide, Mayor Benda has made it clear: Granite City will not be left behind. Instead, it will be a centerpiece of patriotic celebration, cultural heritage, and civic pride.
🔹 Key Features of the Granite City 250th Celebration:
- Grand Independence Day Festival (July 4, 2026) – A multi-day event featuring live music, historical reenactments, veteran tributes, and a fireworks display rivaling any in the Midwest.
- A “Salute to the American Worker” Parade – Honoring Granite City’s rich history in manufacturing, industry, and innovation.
- Local Heroes Recognition Program – Community nominations will highlight those who embody the values of service, leadership, and perseverance.
- Expansion of Historic Landmarks – Enhancements to local parks, murals, and dedicated spaces for reflecting on our nation’s journey.
- Educational and Cultural Programs – School collaborations and museum exhibits showcasing the legacy of the American spirit.
- National-Level Partnerships – Coordination with Task Force 250 and federal resources to elevate Granite City’s role in the national celebration.
“The 250th anniversary of our independence is a once-in-a-lifetime moment,” said Mayor Benda. “Granite City will honor the past, celebrate the present, and lay the foundation for an even brighter future.”
💥 Cleaning House: Future Mayor Benda’s War on Corruption
Granite City has long suffered from insider deals, lack of transparency, and entrenched political interests. Under Mayor Benda’s leadership, that era is over.
🔎 Anti-Corruption Directives:
✅ Full Audit of City Finances – Every department will be scrutinized to uncover waste, fraud, or abuse.
✅ Anonymous Whistleblower Program – City employees and residents will be protected and encouraged to report wrongdoing.
✅ Ethics & Transparency Reforms – Public access to budgets, contracts, and key decision-making processes.
✅ Zero-Tolerance for Nepotism & Kickbacks – Strict new policies to prevent corrupt hiring practices or political favoritism.
✅ Law Enforcement Task Force – Coordination with state and federal authorities to investigate and prosecute misconduct.
“Granite City is done with backroom deals and ‘business as usual’ politics,” declared Mayor Benda. “If you are using your position to serve yourself instead of the people—you will be removed. Period.”
🚀 The Future Starts Now
Mayor Benda’s administration is not just talking about change—they are making it happen. This dual effort to celebrate America’s 250th birthday in a historic way while ensuring clean, honest governance will make Granite City a model for the entire country.
Granite City’s 250th celebration isn’t just a party—it’s a declaration.
The corruption crackdown isn’t just reform—it’s a new beginning.
The message is clear: Granite City will rise. And it starts now.
Stay tuned for community meetings, volunteer opportunities, and updates on how you can be part of this historic movement.