Newly-elected mayors and city officials gathered in Montgomery, Alabama, on October 29, 2025, for a comprehensive training program organized by the Alabama League of Municipalities (ALM). This event saw nearly 500 participants, including both first-time officials and seasoned leaders, come together for a day and a half of educational sessions.
The training aims to equip officials with crucial knowledge about the ALM’s mission, services, and programs. Participants received instruction on essential topics such as legal responsibilities, financial management, and ethics from league staff and representatives of the Alabama Ethics Commission. This initiative follows a law passed by the Alabama Legislature in 2024, which mandates training for all municipal officials, regardless of their prior experience.
Sherry Sullivan, president of the ALM and mayor of Fairhope, emphasized the importance of this training. “They’re going to learn everything from open meetings to budgeting, especially the legal aspects—what they can and can’t do as elected officials,” Sullivan stated. The sessions are designed to provide a solid foundation for new leaders and refresh the knowledge of veteran officials.
In addition to the in-person training, ALM has partnered with the Alabama Community College System to offer online resources covering a variety of relevant topics. This collaboration aims to ensure that municipal officials have continuous access to important educational materials.
These orientations also serve as a platform for introducing new laws and regulations, discussing current municipal issues, and fostering connections among officials. This networking opportunity is vital for addressing day-to-day challenges and sharing innovative solutions.
As Alabama continues to evolve, the training of city leaders plays a crucial role in enhancing governance and public service. By investing in the education of its municipal officials, the state aims to improve the overall quality of leadership and accountability within local government.
