Gov. Kay Ivey signed an Alabama League of Municipalities-sponsored proclamation declaring May 11- 17, 2025, as Municipal Government Week in Alabama during a state capitol ceremony last Thursday afternoon. The goal of this week is to “remind Alabamians of the important role local government plays in providing essential quality of life services,” Ivey’s release said.
“I encourage all Alabamians to be involved in their local municipal government while also recognizing the importance of good government at every level, but especially on the local level,” Ivey said.
There are currently 465 incorporated municipalities in the state. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, over 60 percent of Alabamians live in municipalities, with many more working in them. Municipal government provides services such as police and fire protection, street maintenance, water and sewer services, parks and recreation, and garbage collection, all while also providing numerous educational, recreational and economic development opportunities.
“The League appreciates Gov. Ivey for supporting local government and proclaiming next week as Municipal Government Week,” ALM Executive Director Greg Cochran said. “We encourage Alabamians to get involved in their communities and strengthen relationships with their local leaders because together we can continue to make Alabama an incredible state to live in and create a robust future for generations to thrive.”
ALM was established on May 15, 1935, and is celebrating 90 years of service as the voice for municipal government. Its membership comprises over 450 cities and towns. The organization supports various-sized local governments through legislative advocacy, legal assistance and training for elected officials.
“Elected officials in local municipal governments have the opportunity to collaborate, communicate and serve in the closest of relationships with the citizens that they live, work and play with every day,” ALM President Mark Saliba, mayor of Dothan, said. “As a native of Dothan, it brings me great joy to serve my city and the League in helping to share the unique stories of how every municipality contributes to the strength and well-being of our great state.”
“As municipal leaders, we understand the importance of investing in our communities to lay the groundwork for a more prosperous future for Alabama,” ALM Vice President Sherry Sullivan, mayor of Fairhope, said. “After all, local government serves as the foundation for Alabama’s economy and is the closest to the people, providing quality-of life resources each day that citizens not only expect, but demand.”
ALM reminds citizens they can show their support of their hometowns during Municipal Government Week and throughout the year by being engaged with the Live Locally Alabama campaign. Learn more at: almonline.org/LiveLocallyAlabama.
