Local  government elections will take place on August 26 this year. While a few newcomers have announced their desire to be in office, this appears to be the election of incumbents. Many are running unopposed and are beginning their process to remain in office. The Mayor of Foley officially announced his plan to remain for four more years in a press release:

Mayor Ralph Hellmich has announced his candidacy for re-election as Mayor of the City of Foley, with the election scheduled for August 26, 2025, at the Foley Civic Center. Running under the theme "Your Mayor. Your Voice," Hellmich is dedicated to continuing his commitment to the citizens of Foley as being an accessible, results-driven leader that prioritizes the community needs. 

During his tenure, Hellmich has focused on four core areas of improvement for the citizens of Foley including Infrastructure, Public Safety, Education, and overall Quality of Life. His administration's accomplishments reflect a commitment to tangible improvements: 

- Infrastructure: Collaborating with the county and ALDOT, under Hellmich’s leadership the City has upgraded 27 intersections and implemented a Traffic Signalization program to improve traffic flow. Pedestrian safety has been enhanced with new sidewalks, solar-powered crosswalks, and numerous safety grants. 

- Public Safety: Foley is recognized as one of the safest cities in Baldwin County. The city has invested in cutting-edge fire equipment, police technology, and programs that educate young adults about careers in public safety. New fire stations and expanded police facilities have been constructed under Hellmich’s leadership that cater to the growing population. 

- Education: Partnerships with the Baldwin County Board of Education have led to an increase of funding of $600,000 annually towards enhancing local schools, raising ACT scores, and creating public safety career paths. 

- Quality of Life: Foley has invested in parks, adding hundreds of acres and upgrading facilities with efficient LED lighting. A new $20 million library and community center is under construction, and future plans include a civic center and a World War II heritage museum. Hellmich has also been a champion encouraging the development of the "Our commitment is to ensure Foley remains a safe, thriving and welcoming community," Hellmich remarked. "We are dedicated to preserving what makes Foley unique while strategically planning for our future. As your mayor, I am here to listen and be your voice, ensuring our leadership is responsive and effective for all residents." 

Hellmich's leadership experience, prior to the past four years as mayor, included over 16 years as District 3 Representative on the Foley City Council, where he also served as Mayor Pro Tem. He is a Certified Municipal Official and has contributed significantly to 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 on the University of Alabama Geological Sciences Advisory Board. 

A campaign kickoff party will be held on Thursday, June 5th, from 5 to 7 p.m. at Hotel Magnolia, 119 N McKenzie St., Foley, AL 36535. All are welcome to attend. 

About Ralph Hellmich: 

A lifelong resident of Foley, Hellmich graduated from Foley High School and the University of Alabama with a B.S. in Geology. He retired as the Regional Operations Supervisor from the State of Alabama Oil and Gas Board. Hellmich is actively involved in the community and serves on numerous boards and organizations. 

He is married to Jo McGill Hellmich, and together they have three children and one grandchild. 

For more information, to volunteer, or to display yard signs, visit 

www.hellmichformayor.com.