MONTGOMERY – As it celebrates its first anniversary, Live Locally Alabama calls on Alabamians of all ages to be more active in building stronger, more vibrant communities.
The Alabama League of Municipalities launched the statewide, quality-of-life campaign to increase awareness of the critical role local governments play in peoples’ daily lives.
As Live Locally Alabama enters its second year, the Alabama League of Municipalities invites every Alabamian to celebrate by committing to take one new action in support of their city or town whether that is voting, attending a council meeting or simply thanking a public servant—every action counts.
Alabama is comprised of 466 cities and towns, each with their own strengths and challenges.
Over the past year, Live Locally Alabama has served as a platform to highlight the range of services they offer, which depends on strong leadership, active community support and sustainable funding through local tax dollars, licenses and fees.
Common examples include: police and fire protection; water and wastewater services; street and sidewalk maintenance; economic development; schools; garbage and recycling collection; parks, recreation and youth programs; libraries; and senior centers, not to mention community events and festivals.
“Most people do not realize just how many services their local government provides until those services are interrupted or are no longer available,” ALM Executive Director Greg Cochran said. “From the roads we drive on to the parks our children play in, municipalities are responsible for the services that make our communities safe, functional and enjoyable.”
Following the August municipal elections, the League said now is the perfect time to become more engaged with the elected officials as they prepare their visions for the next four years or more.
Get involved
- Attend city council or town hall meetings to stay informed and speak up on local issues.
- Volunteer with community organizations, clean-up events or local boards and commissions.
- Support local businesses, farmers markets and civic fundraisers.
- Report issues such as potholes, code violations or safety concerns to your local government.
- Join neighborhood associations or start community improvement initiatives.
Be aware that several runoff elections are scheduled for Sept. 23, offering another opportunity for citizens to shape their local leadership.
How to support Live Locally Alabama
Live Locally Alabama is not just a campaign; it is a movement that welcomes participation from citizens of all ages.
Adults can:
- Serve on local advisory boards or task forces
- Mentor youth in civic leadership programs
- Share information about municipal services and the campaign with others
- Vote in every election
- Share Live Locally Alabama campaign graphics and videos on social media
Youths can:
- Join student government or local youth councils
- Participate in community service projects
- Learn about how local government works through school or library programs
- Help organize local drives or clean-up days with family and friends
“As I meet with mayors and councilmembers from around the state, I often hear about a lot of wide-ranging issues, but many express a similar story of not having much community involvement,” ALM President Sherry Sullivan, mayor of Fairhope, said. “We hope by educating people about the value of local government that they will be more likely to support and participate in their communities.
“We want our citizens to be engaged and to have input on how our cities and towns take shape and evolve.”
For more information, engagement ideas and stories from communities across the state, visit almonline.org/LiveLocallyAlabama.
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