Accomplishments

​​​Over the past decade, Jim Heigl has led Sylacauga through significant progress, always with an eye toward the future. The roads are better. The city is safer. The departments are stronger. With your support, he’s ready to keep building on that momentum.

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Because for Jim, being Mayor isn’t about politics, it’s about people, and there’s still more he wants to do for the city he loves.

 

Infrastructure and Capital Improvements
Parks and Recreation Enhancements: Authorized a $363,341.72 agreement with GameTime to replace playground equipment at Noble Park, improving recreational facilities for residents. 
Equipment Upgrades: Facilitated the purchase of essential city maintenance equipment, including a Massey Ferguson tractor with a right-of-way mower ($152,649.83) and two diesel-powered mowers with suspension seats ($31,419.80), to enhance city maintenance operations. 
Utility and Infrastructure Investments: Oversaw the installation of Cat 6 voice/data cabling across multiple city departments ($6,480), and managed increased utility funding for the Sylacauga Little League Fields ($10,000), reflecting a commitment to modernizing city infrastructure. 
Bond Initiatives for City Projects: Authorized the issuance of General Obligation Warrants, Series 2024-A and 2024-B, to finance various public capital improvements, including paving, drainage, bridge reconstruction, public building renovations, and the construction of a new recreation center. 

Economic Development and Community Growth
Business Expansion: Facilitated the introduction of new businesses to Sylacauga, including Publix, Circle K (with expanded facilities for 18-wheeler trucks), Lloyd’s Restaurant's second location, and The Wharf seafood restaurant, contributing to local economic growth. 
Entertainment Districts: Worked towards finalizing plans for two new entertainment districts aimed at revitalizing the downtown area, with features such as concert venues, dining, and
shopping options to boost community engagement and tourism. 

Education and Community Relations
Educational Advancements: Supported the appointment of Superintendent Michele Eller, under whose leadership the Sylacauga City School District achieved significant gains in student
literacy and math performance, enhancing the city's educational reputation. 
Community Engagement: Addressed community concerns regarding the influx of legal immigrants seeking employment in Sylacauga, emphasizing the city's non-sanctuary status and
encouraging residents to extend hospitality to newcomers. 

Fiscal Management and Governance
Budget Adjustments: Managed the amendment of the FY24 General Fund Operating Budget to reflect increased sales tax revenues, adjusting from $10,165,265.85 to $16,400,000,
demonstrating responsive fiscal planning. 
Transparency and Communication: Expressed concerns over proposed bond amounts and their long-term impact on the city's finances, advocating for prudent fiscal management in light of
current economic conditions. 

Mayor Heigl's tenure has been marked by efforts to improve city infrastructure, stimulate economic development, enhance educational outcomes, and maintain transparent governance. 
These initiatives reflect his commitment to fostering a thriving and inclusive community in Sylacauga.