Reynolds named Resource, Conservation & Development Council Legislator of the Year

GUNTERSVILLE — Recognized for his “unwavering support for RC&D programs,” State Rep. Rex Reynolds has been named Resource, Conservation & Development Council Legislator of the Year by the Alabama Association of RC&D Councils.

The recognition was made recently during the Alabama Mountains Rivers Valley’s RC&D annual conference at Guntersville State Park Lodge, according to a news release. At the conference, C&D leaders from across Alabama gathered to celebrate community partnerships and innovative local projects making an impact.

“Representative Reynolds has been an incredible advocate for Alabama’s communities,” said Katie Conner, executive director of the AARC&D Councils. “He truly cares about the people we serve and understands how local projects can create lasting impact.

“His support has strengthened our work across the state and continues to make a meaningful difference, helping us fulfill RC&D’s mission to make Alabama a better place to live, work, and play.”

The Legislator of the Year award is presented annually by the Alabama Association of RC&D Councils to a member of the Alabama Legislature who demonstrates exceptional dedication to community development, conservation, and grassroots partnerships.

Reynolds’s leadership and advocacy have been instrumental in advancing these goals throughout Alabama, the organization said.

Reynolds was honored for his exceptional leadership, advocacy, and unwavering support for RC&D programs that strengthen communities across Alabama, the news release said.

As chair of the House General Fund Committee, Reynolds has played a key role in ensuring that vital funding reaches local nonprofits and community-based initiatives that make a tangible difference in people’s lives.

“What I enjoy most about what we do in the legislature is appropriating funds that get down to our non-profits and our community-based programs, like RC&D, doing the ‘boots on the ground’ work,” said Reynolds (R-Huntsville). “You are doing great work across the state and I appreciate you so much. Thank you for this award but thank you so much more for what you do.” 

AARC&D represents nine local RC&D councils across the state, who partner with the State Legislature to reinvest state-appropriated funds directly into communities.

These partnerships support initiatives such as outdoor classrooms, rural broadband expansion, agricultural innovation, volunteer fire departments, and environmental restoration projects — all aimed at improving the quality of life for Alabama’s citizens.

“We are deeply grateful for Rep. Reynolds’s commitment to North Alabama and his understanding of how RC&D programs change lives,” said Renona Seibert, executive director of the AMRV RC&D Council. “His advocacy helps us bring resources directly to the communities we serve — from classrooms and farms to first responders and conservation projects.”