Office of The Mayor

Mayor’s Message

Welcome and thank you for visiting the City of Gloucester’s official website.  We are dedicated to delivering high quality, efficient municipal services.  Local government should be an open and responsive forum for residents, businesses, and visitors.  This website is just one part of our effort to make City government more accessible for you. 

 As America’s oldest seaport, our authentic working waterfront highlights our maritime pride across our beaches, restaurants, museums, historical attractions and the oldest working art colony in North America.  A place to see, feel, and taste history, Gloucester’s mix of beauty, fun, and character have drawn fans for over four hundred years.

While visiting, you can sail on Gloucester’s historic schooners and dine at wonderful bistros featuring the freshest fish and local fare.  Enjoy the excitement of a nautical excursion – Gloucester provides some of the best whale watching in the world!  Whether you are interested in fishing, hiking, swimming, or any other recreational activity, our spectacular beauty complements any adventure.  

The heart of Gloucester beats vibrantly downtown with an eclectic mix of shops, cafes, and galleries – even an interactive self-guided harborwalk tour, which celebrates Gloucester’s most remarkable stories.

Our wonderful people are resilient, hardworking, creative and endearing.  We love life here in Gloucester - and when you visit this genuine destination, we are confident you’ll love it too!

Sincerely,

Mayor Greg Verga

Biography

As a lifelong Gloucester resident, Mayor Greg Verga has long been committed to serving his community. Mayor Verga was elected to office in 2021 and had previously served Gloucester for eight years on the School Committee, followed by six years on City Council. He firmly believes that local government should be transparent, collaborative, efficient, and conducted with respect and civility.

In his previous role as chair of the Gloucester School Committee, Mayor Verga pushed to hold meetings at City Hall to allow for live broadcasting on cable television and to post meeting minutes and administrative contract texts on the School Department website. During his time on City Council, he championed initiatives to engage the public in critical City decisions and increase public awareness of City boards and commissions. 

Since taking office in January 2022, Mayor Verga has launched several innovative initiatives and worked to address long-standing issues within the community. He has created strategic committees to tackle major concerns and actively engage residents and organizations. Mayor Verga understands the importance of supporting local businesses and advancing economic development. He has prioritized investing in Gloucester's small businesses and is exploring opportunities to expand our economic future.

In addition to his work as an elected official, Mayor Verga has served in numerous appointed municipal positions and has been an engaged participant in various community boards and activities. As a founding member of the Gloucester Fishermen Athletic Association and an active member of several other boards, Mayor Verga has been dedicated to serving Gloucester's youth and improving its education system. 

Mayor Verga is a musician, playing guitar and bass. He has co-written songs with his project Paulzon Fire which are available for streaming. Additionally he has authored a children’s book, “Fresh Eggs,” published by Wiggles Press Books in 2011. 

He and his wife Kellie live in West Gloucester and have three adult children and two grandchildren. He is a graduate of Gloucester High School and earned his Bachelor's degree in Communications from Salem State College.