23-05-2025
Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich to seek another term
FOLEY, Ala. (WKRG) — Foley Mayor Ralph Hellmich has announced he will seeking reelection.
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Hellmich said in a news release he is running with the theme, 'Your Mayor. Your Voice,' and said he wants to continue to be 'an accessible, results-driven leader that prioritizes the community needs.'
During his stint as mayor, Hellmich has made four core areas of improvement his primary goal — infrastructure, public safety, education and overall quality of life, the release said.
According to the release, Hellmich's administration has accomplished a lot in those areas:
Infrastructure: In collaboration with Baldwin County and the Alabama Department of Transportation, the city upgraded 27 intersections, implemented a traffic signalization program to improve traffic flow, and improved pedestrian safety with new sidewalks, solar-powered crosswalks and numerous safety grants.
Public safety: The city has invested in 'cutting-edge' fire equipment, police technology and programs that educate young adults about public safety careers, plus new fire stations and expanded police facilities have ben built.
Education: Partnerships with the Baldwin County Board of Education has led to an additional $600,000 annually to enhance local schools, raise ACT scores and create public safety career paths.
Quality of life: The city has added hundreds of acres in parks and upgraded facilities with LED lighting. Additionally, a new $20 million library and community center is being built, with plans to eventually build a civic center and a World War II heritage museum.
'Our commitment is to ensure Foley remains a safe, thriving and welcoming community,' Hellmich said. 'We are dedicated to preserving what makes Foley unique while strategically planning for our future.'
Prior to taking the helm as Mayor, Hellmich served 16 years as District 3 Representative on the Foley City Council, serving as Mayor Pro Tem. He is a Certified Municipal Official served on several boards, including the Foley Planning Commission, Redevelopment Authority and Public Facilities Cooperative District. He served as the chairman of the Riviera Utilities Board and served on the University of Alabama Geological Sciences Advisory Board, the release said.
Hellmich is a lifelong resident, having graduated from Foley High School. He graduated from the University of Alabama with a bachelor's degree in Geology and retired as the Regional Operations Supervisor from the State of Alabama Oil and Gas Board, the release said. He currently serves on numerous boards and organizations in the community.
He is married to Jo McGill Hellmich and they have three children and one grandchild, the release said.
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Hellmich will hold a campaign kickoff party, open to the public, Thursday, June 5, from 5-7 p.m. at Hotel Magnolia, 119 North McKenzie Street in Foley.
EVENT LOCATION:
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