Local mayors travel to D.C. to meet with Al. senators

Local mayors travel to D.C. to meet with Al. senators

Mayor Tony Kennon of Orange Beach, Robert Craft of Gulf Shores and Ralph Hellmich of Foley (pictured with Sen. Britt) traveled top Washington DC on July 29 to meet with U.S. Senators Tommy Tuberville and Katie Britt to discuss infrastructure needs, responsible regional growth, and long-term environmental sustainability on the Alabama Coast. The trip was coordinated by the Gulf United Metro Business Organization during what has been a record breaking tourism season.
“Last year, 8.4 million people visited, bringing in $7.8 billion to the county,” said U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville. “We want to ensure that local leaders have the necessary resources to support tourism, development, and conservation along the Gulf of America. My office is committed to working alongside Baldwin County leaders to make sure this region of the Yellowhammer State continues to grow and thrive.”
Year-to-date lodging revenues are up 7.2% over 2024, and both June and July visitation have surpassed last year’s numbers, according to statistics provided by Gulf Shores/Orange Beach Tourism.
Plus, Foley is Alabama’s fastest-growing city, according to U.S. Census data released in May.
“We have a low cost of living with a great quality of life,” said Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich. “Indicators point to continued growth for our area, and by working with outstanding leaders like Senator Tuberville and Senator Britt, we will be able to provide solutions that benefit our residents, our city, and our state.”
Gulf Shores also appeared on the list of the fastest-growing cities in Alabama, ranking eighth. With the Gulf Shores International Airport outpacing initial commercial passenger projections, city leadership is exploring ways to shape demand and growth.
Orange Beach is also experiencing significant growth and is committed to maintaining its small-town quality of life.
“Life is truly better here, and through the personal relationships we have formed with our senators, together we are working diligently to make sure that protecting our quality of life is the priority,” said Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon. “Senator Tuberville and Senator Britt have been great friends of Baldwin County since their first days in office and truly empathize with us on the importance of our infrastructure needs and want to partner with us to help get these projects done.”