Two of Mesa’s top public servants are receiving national recognition for their leadership and dedication to the community.
Mesa Vice Mayor Scott Somers and Mesa Fire and Medical Department Chief Mary Cameli have been named among “America’s 250 Public Service Champions,” a nationwide initiative honoring standout local government leaders ahead of the United States’ 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence.
A Nationwide Effort to Recognize Local Leadership
The recognition was announced by the National Academy of Public Administration in partnership with LocalGov250, an initiative designed to highlight the important role local governments play in shaping communities across the country.
According to the program, honorees were selected from hundreds of nominations submitted from all 50 states and Washington, D.C., with each candidate recommended by peers in public administration.
The initiative is part of a broader effort to celebrate civic leadership leading up to the nation’s semiquincentennial, emphasizing how cities and local agencies serve as the foundation of American democracy.
Vice Mayor Somers’ Longstanding Commitment to Service
Scott Somers, who represents District 6 in southeast Mesa, is currently serving his third term on the City Council. His public service career spans decades, including time in the U.S. Air Force and the fire service.
He also plays a key role in shaping Mesa’s future, serving as chair of the city’s America 250 committee and leading the council’s Public Safety Committee.
In a statement, Somers emphasized the importance of service in building strong communities, noting that lasting progress comes from individuals committed to something greater than themselves.
Fire Chief Cameli’s Trailblazing Career
Mary Cameli’s recognition highlights a career marked by leadership and historic milestones.
She joined the Mesa Fire and Medical Department in 1983 as one of its first female firefighters and steadily rose through the ranks before being appointed Fire Chief in 2016.
Under her leadership, the department has expanded critical services, including medical and community-based programs, while also achieving nationally recognized accreditation standards.
Cameli remains active on a national level, serving on boards such as the International Fire Service Training Association and the International Center for Public Safety Excellence.
Celebrating Public Service on a National Stage
The 250 selected leaders will be formally honored during an event leading up to the International City/County Management Association (ICMA) National Conference in Philadelphia on May 12.
The ICMA, a global organization focused on advancing professional local government management, plays a key role in promoting leadership excellence across cities and counties.
Why This Recognition Matters for Mesa
This national recognition not only highlights the accomplishments of Somers and Cameli, but also shines a spotlight on Mesa as a city committed to strong leadership and community-focused service.
Programs like LocalGov250 aim to reinforce the importance of local government in everyday life—from public safety and infrastructure to community development and civic engagement.
The Bottom Line
As the country approaches its 250th anniversary, Mesa is being represented on a national stage by two leaders whose careers reflect a deep commitment to service.
Their recognition as Public Service Champions underscores the impact local leadership has—not just within city limits, but across the nation.
