MUSCLE SHOALS โ Mayor Mike Lockhart has officially announced his campaign for reelection,
seeking to build on the healthy growth the city experienced in his first term in one of north Alabamaโs
fastest-growing cities. Mayor Lockhartโs priorities include preparing infrastructure for growth, investing
in public safety, supporting public schools, and sustaining economic development.
โIn every decision I make, my goal is to strengthen Muscle Shoals for generations to come,โ said
Mayor Mike Lockhart
Lockhart. โWeโve had great development in the last four years, but we have even greater
opportunities ahead.โ
During his first term, Mayor Lockhart prioritized thoughtful city planning and innovative design through
the creation of the cityโs first comprehensive plan. That plan is now guiding targeted investments in
infrastructure and updated zoning laws to ensure the cityโs growth is balanced and purposeful.
Key achievements under Mayor Lockhartโs leadership include:
โข Infrastructure Modernization: Strategic upgrades to roads, utilities, and public spaces that
support current needs and future expansion.
โข Public Safety Investment: A 32% increase in Police Department funding and a 43% increase
for the Fire Department, including the addition of a fourth fire station and expanded School
Resource Officer staffing.
โข Education Funding Reform: A transition from a flat-rate school contribution to a percentage-
based system aligned with retail tax growthโresulting in significantly increased funding for
local schools.
โข Employee Compensation Overhaul: Implementation of a comprehensive salary survey to
ensure competitive pay for city employees, in partnership with Auburn University.
โข Economic Development Initiatives: Partnered with retailers and developers to incentivize
new sales tax generators. Announced plans for new sportsplex with mixed-use retail facilities,
and renewed efforts to promote the cityโs music heritage. Worked closely with Shoals EDA and
Shoals Chamber of Commerce.
โข Fiscal Responsibility: Strengthened the cityโs financial position through responsible
budgeting and strategic investmentsโensuring long-term stability while supporting critical
services and future growth. Oversaw the cityโs bond rating improve to AA3 as rated by
Moodyโs.
Lockhart said, โI am proud of the results we have seen in my first term, and I am running to continue
the forward momentum Muscle Shoals has created.โ
Media ReleaseMayor Lockhart’s reelection campaignย
