The Alabama League of Municipalities’ (ALM) Live Locally Alabama campaign celebrates the heartbeat of our state’s communities–the people who live, work and give back right where they are. Across Alabama’s 466 cities and towns, citizens are the backbone of progress, shaping healthy, vibrant places to call home in ways they may not even realize. From volunteering at local events to supporting small businesses or simply showing up for neighbors, everyday actions make a difference.

As part of the Live Locally Alabama campaign, ALM is visiting municipal leaders across the state to highlight how local government works hand in hand with residents to build a sustainable, connected future. In east Alabama, three communities–Tuskegee, Opelika and Albertville–are proving that when leaders and citizens work together, they can create spaces and experiences that strengthen both community pride and a sense of belonging.

Learn About Local History in Tuskegee

Tuskegee Mayor Lawrence “Tony” Haygood Jr., who served as ALM’s president from 2022-2023, is a lifelong resident and dedicated community leader. He is deeply proud of Moton Field, the home of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen. With decades of public service under his belt, Mayor Haygood understands the profound impact this historic site holds. “Moton Field was where the Tuskegee Airmen trained—heroes who shaped the end of World War II, the integration of our armed services and the civil rights movement,” he said.

Today, the field remains a hub of aviation activity. “We’ve come full circle. Tuskegee University students are once again being trained at Moton Field to serve the military with strength and pride,” Haygood noted.

The city works alongside the Friends of the Tuskegee Airmen National Historic Site to preserve and share this history nationwide. “It’s been a community-wide effort–city, county and citizens working together to honor Moton Field’s legacy,” he said.

Moton Field also serves as a gathering place for community events and fly-ins, with future aviation activities on the horizon. “When citizens are informed, they participate more actively and that makes our community stronger,” Haygood added.

Play at a Park for All in Opelika

Opelika Mayor Gary Fuller, who served as ALM’s president from 2021-2022, has been serving the community for over two decades with a strong focus on enhancing quality of life and fostering community engagement. He is thrilled to celebrate the success of Floral Park, a 28-acre property transformed into an inclusive, multi-use destination. “Floral Park is our 28-acre jewel, rebuilt from top to bottom and now the smash hit of the summer,” Fuller said.

The park features turf athletic fields for soccer and football, large and small dog parks, picnic pavilions, a walking track and an inclusive playground designed for children of all abilities. “Parents are bringing their kids twice a day; it has exceeded all our expectations,” Fuller shared.

For Mayor Fuller, the Live Locally Alabama campaign reinforces the value of amenities like Floral Park. “It brings our community together to enjoy the things we have right here at home,” he said. He encourages residents to get involved: “Volunteer–whether it’s with the library, food bank, community market, parks and recreation or the Literacy Coalition. Be a part of making a difference!”

Explore and Enjoy Community in Albertville

Albertville City Councilwoman Jill Oakley brings over a decade of public service to her hometown and is equally enthusiastic about her community’s crown jewel: Sand Mountain Park and Amphitheater. The expansive facility features seven playgrounds, multiple sports courts–including baseball, softball, soccer, tennis and basketball–an outdoor water park and an amphitheater that highlights local music talent.

“This park meets the needs of our whole community: sports, recreation, exercise and live music,” Oakley said. “It’s an opportunity to live locally, enjoy the outdoors and make the most of our natural beauty.”

The project was the result of years of planning, community input and a dedicated one-cent sales tax to fund infrastructure, including the park’s development. “This is our way to give back to our community the things it needs to have a quality of life,” Oakley said.

She sees the Live Locally Alabama campaign as an invitation for residents to discover what is already around them. “You don’t have to go to Disney World. North Alabama has so much to explore and enjoy right here,” she said. “Our school system, parks and local boards offer countless ways to contribute.”

No matter their size or location, Tuskegee, Opelika and Albertville share one vital truth: communities thrive when citizens are engaged and invested. Local governments can build spaces and programs, but it is the people who fill them with meaning and connection.

Through the Live Locally Alabama campaign, these east Alabama cities show that stepping up–by volunteering, sharing ideas or simply showing up–makes a hometown stronger and brighter. Living locally is not just about where you live; it is about how you help shape the future of your community.

For more information on the ALM Live Locally Alabama campaign, including municipal and citizen resources, visit almonline.org/LiveLocallyAlabama.