Governor Kay Ivey on Thursday signed a proclamation sponsored by the Alabama League of Cities and Municipalities (ALM) declaring May 12-18, 2024 as Municipality Week in Alabama. Our goal this week is to remind Alabamians that local government plays an important role in providing essential quality life services.
Governor Ivey said, “While I encourage all Alabamians to participate in local government, I also recognize the importance of good government at all levels, especially at the local level.”
Currently, there are 465 incorporated municipalities in the state. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, more than 60 percent of Alabamians live in local governments, and even more work in local governments. City government provides services such as police and fire protection, street maintenance, water and sewer services, parks and recreation, and trash collection, while also providing numerous educational, recreational, and economic development opportunities.
“The Alliance is grateful to Governor Ivey for supporting local governments and declaring next week Local Government Week,” said ALM Executive Director Greg Cochran. “We encourage Alabamians to show support for their local governments and thank local officials for their tireless efforts during this time.”
ALM was founded on May 15, 1935, and its membership includes more than 450 cities and towns. The organization supports local governments of all sizes with legislative advocacy, legal assistance, and training for elected officials.
“Local governments have a huge impact on the lives of their residents. However, many people in Alabama do not understand all of the day-to-day services that cities and towns provide to their communities,” ALM said Chairman and Hartselle Mayor Randy Garrison. “Local government is the closest and most responsive form of government to the people. Therefore, I encourage the public to find opportunities to strengthen relationships with local leaders.”
Four cities in Alabama have populations of more than 185,000 people, and 59 cities have populations of more than 12,000 people. On the other hand, there are 406 municipalities with a population of less than 12,000 people and 135 municipalities with a population of less than 500 people.
“Elected officials in local government have the opportunity to collaborate, communicate, and serve in the closest relationships with the citizens who live, work, and play with them every day,” said ALM Vice President and Dothan Mayor Mark. Saliba said. “As a Dothan native, it gives me great pleasure to serve my city and the federation by sharing the unique story of how every municipality contributes to the strength and well-being of this great state.”
