Mayor Ranae Bartlett honors traditions while setting precedents
MADISON – Traditions in contrast to precedents set the tone this week for Mayor Ranae Bartlett, as documented in her “Madison Weekly.”
On May 11, Bartlett presented the “State of the City Address” at the Jackson Center in Huntsville. “The message remains clear: Madison is building momentum, partnerships and a shared vision shaping our community’s future,” Bartlett said.
She described Madison with three adjectives: strong, growing and focused. “This administration has moved quickly to invest in critical infrastructure, strengthen quality of life and continue building a city that families and businesses are proud to call home,” Bartlett said.
“Madison is positioned as a destination for opportunity and progress,” she said, specifically referencing the 2027 SEC Softball Tournament at Toyota Field.
Recognizing Madison City Schools, Bartlett said “education remains the crown jewel of Madison.” She thanked Dr. Ed Nichols, who is retiring, for his six years of service as MCS Superintendent.
“Most importantly, the event served as a reminder that Madison’s future is incredibly bright. I’m grateful for the support, vision and community spirit that continue to move our city forward every day,” Bartlett said.
Bartlett congratulated the city personnel in “2026 Employees of the Year,” an annual recognition in its 25th year as a joint venture with the city and Rotary Club of Madison. “Honorees were recognized for their leadership, professionalism and dedication to making Madison a great place to live and work,” she said. “Congratulations to Tyler Drew, Firefighter of the Year; Teresa Taylor-Duncan, Police Officer of the Year; and Chris Holmes, Employee of the Year.”
Bartlett has founded “Madison Cares,” an initiative designed to introduce Madison pastors for fellowship, prayer and helpful service. Madison Cares will focus on identifying community needs and resources and strengthening the bonds of the faith-based community.
“Madison Cares is open to leaders of all faith traditions who share a commitment to serving our community. To get involved, please contact Amanda Jarrett at Amanda.Jarrett@madisonal.gov,” Bartlett said.
At the Von Braun Center, Gov. Kay Ivey presented her last “Alabama Update” as an overview of Alabama’s current priorities and progress. Mayor Tommy Battle, Madison County Commission Chairman Rex Vaughn and Bartlett presented Ivey with a joint proclamation honoring her historic tenure as governor.
For this week in town, Bartlett shared statistics for city departments:
• Madison Police Department – 1,006 calls for service; 24 arrests; 91 citations; and 128 warnings.
• Madison Fire and Rescue Department – 152 total incidents; 21.7 daily average; 2 fire calls; 11 public service; 110 medical calls; and 1 rescue.
• Parks and Recreation Department 590 Dublin Park membership visits; 339 Dublin walk-in visits; 281 Wellness Center visits; and 217 Madison Community Center visits.
