Meet Jim

Jim Heigl is a proud Vietnam Veteran, longtime Sylacauga resident, and dedicated public servant with over a decade of mayoral experience. He’s committed to continuing the progress he’s helped lead — improving infrastructure, building trust in government, and creating a better quality of life for every Sylacauga resident.

Personal Life

At the heart of Jim Heigl’s story is his family. He was married to his beloved wife, Joyce, for many years until her passing in 2024. Together, they raised two daughters, Jessica and Mary, both of whom were brought up right here in Sylacauga and graduated from Sylacauga High School. Today, Jim is a proud grandfather to six grandchildren — Maegan, Macie, and Blake from Jessica and her husband Lamar; and Rylee, Ryann, and Rhys from Mary and her husband Jason.Jim is a firm believer in the importance of strong families and community ties. You’ll often find him attending local school events, supporting youth programs, or simply spending time with his grandkids. His love for Sylacauga is deeply personal — it’s the place where his family has grown, where memories have been made, and where his legacy continues to take shape.

Sylacauga Strong

Jim Heigl has called Sylacauga home for over 76 years. He graduated from Sylacauga High School, raised his daughters here, and now watches his grandchildren grow up in the same community that shaped his own life. Sylacauga isn’t just where he lives — it’s where his roots run deep, and where his heart is firmly planted. Over the years, Jim has been involved in nearly every corner of community life, from neighborhood cleanups to civic events, all while building trusted relationships with the people he proudly serves.

Military Service

Jim’s path of service began early, when he joined the U.S. Army in 1961. He served four years on active duty — including two during wartime in Southeast Asia — and followed that with three years in the Army Reserves. His military training included 14 weeks in signal school, where he developed leadership skills that earned him a position as acting sergeant over his platoon. Jim continues to support veterans through his roles with the American Legion, Vietnam Veterans of America, and Congressman Mike Rogers’ Veterans Advisory Board. Service has never been just a chapter of his life — it’s been a constant.

A Career Built on Practical Skill

Before becoming Mayor, Jim spent 37 years working in paper manufacturing with Kimberly-Clark and U.S. Alliance. There, he specialized in drafting and computer systems — experience that gave him a technical edge when it comes to understanding infrastructure and operational challenges. He also completed courses in wet-end chemistry and received a Five-Star Award for innovations that improved production. That kind of practical, results-driven thinking is what he brings to City Hall every day.

Proven Leadership

Jim’s public service began with his election to the City Council in 2008, where he served as President until 2012. When the sitting mayor passed away, Jim was sworn in to serve — and he hasn’t stopped since. Voters elected him Mayor in both 2016 and 2020. Over his 14 years in city government, Jim has presented eight balanced budgets with surpluses, completed major road paving projects, and prioritized infrastructure repairs that had long been delayed. He’s worked closely with engineering firms to address Sylacauga’s drainage problems and has fought for equipment upgrades that help departments better serve the public.

Prepared and Qualified

Jim is the first Sylacauga Mayor to earn the title of Certified Municipal Official through the Alabama League of Municipalities. He’s also a Certified Planning and Zoning Official through the University of North Alabama. These credentials aren’t just plaques on a wall — they represent years of hands-on leadership, training, and a clear understanding of the responsibilities that come with leading a city. Jim attends nearly every board meeting — from planning and zoning to utilities and housing — ensuring he stays informed and involved at every level of city government.

A Legacy of Community Service

Jim’s contributions extend well beyond City Hall. He’s a past recipient of the Sylacauga Beautification Council’s “Citizen of the Year” award and Kiwanis’ “Community Service Award.” He’s been active in the Sylacauga Planning Commission, Housing Authority, Habitat for Humanity, Civitan, and Kiwanis, among many others. He also reactivated the Lake Howard Authority in 2018, helping transform that area into a valued part of the city’s recreational offerings. Whether it’s supporting the Marble Festival or pitching in at a local fundraiser, Jim doesn’t just talk about community — he lives it.