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Cullman City Connection May 2026 City of Cullman Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month with Proclamation and Resolution At the May 26, 2026 City Council meeting, the Cullman City Council formally recognized May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month, reaffirming the City’s commitment to supporting mental wellness, increasing awareness, and encouraging access to care and support services throughout the community. This follows Mayor Woody Jacobs’ official proclamation recognizing Mental Health Awareness Month in the City of Cullman. The proclamation emphasized the importance of mental health as a critical part of overall wellness and encouraged residents to support efforts aimed at reducing stigma and improving understanding of mental health conditions. The resolution adopted by the City Council highlighted the ongoing need for mental health resources in Cullman County. According to information included in the resolution, WellStone served 2,801 Cullman County residents in 2025.   This includes 841 children experiencing emotional and behavioral challenges and 1,297 adults identified as having a serious mental illness. The resolution also noted that 7% of those adults identified as active-duty military or veterans, 11% reported unstable housing conditions, and 2% were homeless. City leaders also recognized the importance of partnerships among healthcare providers, educators, public safety agencies, and community organizations working together to improve access to mental health services and support systems. By both proclamation and formal resolution, the City of Cullman encouraged citizens to promote mental wellness, support awareness efforts, and continue building a community where individuals and families feel supported in seeking help and resources when needed. City of Cullman Leaders Join Regional Partners at WellStone’s Beacon of Hope Event to Champion Mental Health Awareness City of Cullman Council President Kim Hall recently joined community and regional leaders at WellStone’s Beacon of Hope event in Huntsville, an inspiring evening dedicated to mental health awareness, recovery, and community support. Representing Cullman alongside fellow civic and business leaders—including Chris Van Dyke, Executive Director of WellStone Cullman; Vinemont Mayor Shirley Barnett; John Bullard, Cullman County Administrator; Kelly Duke, Cullman County Commission; Matt Townson, VP of Cullman Savings Bank; and Ben Harrison of Cullman Regional Airport—Hall participated in an evening focused on one clear and powerful message: “There is help, so there is hope.” Hosted by WellStone, the event highlighted the critical importance of breaking stigma, building support systems, and encouraging open conversations about mental health across Alabama communities. A defining moment of the evening came from keynote speaker Coach Scott Cochran, former University of Alabama strength and conditioning coach, who shared his deeply personal story of recovery, resilience, and healing.   Cochran’s message resonated strongly as he challenged attendees to confront mental health struggles openly and honestly. “No more whispering.” His courageous call to action underscored the urgent need to remove shame from mental health conversations and replace silence with support, advocacy, and hope. “For our communities to truly thrive, we must be willing to talk boldly about mental health and ensure people know they are not alone,” Hall said. “Events like Beacon of Hope remind us that leadership is not just about infrastructure and policy—it’s also about caring for people.” The City of Cullman is proud to support efforts that strengthen families, improve well-being, and foster healthier communities. Through collaboration with organizations like WellStone, local leaders continue working to ensure hope, healing, and help remain accessible for all. Together, Cullman stands stronger when we lead with courage, compassion, and a commitment to hope. Mayor Proclaims April 30 as Therapy Animal Day in Cullman Mayor Woody Jacobs recently proclaimed April 30 as National Therapy Animal Day in the City of Cullman, recognizing the important role therapy animals and their handlers play in supporting individuals throughout the community. Local certified therapy dog teams, including Cullman Therapy Dogs, provide comfort and companionship through visits to schools, hospitals, nursing homes, courthouses, libraries, and public safety agencies.   During the proclamation presentation at City Hall, several local handlers and their therapy dogs were recognized for their volunteer service and positive impact on residents of all ages. Mayor Jacobs thanked the teams for their dedication and encouraged the community to celebrate the difference therapy animals make every day through compassion, healing, and connection. Cullman Marks Small Business Week with Proclamation at City Hall Mayor Woody Jacobs recently presented the City of Cullman’s Small Business Week proclamation at Cullman City Hall, officially recognizing May 3–9, 2026, as Small Business Week in the city. Representatives from the Cullman Area Chamber of Commerce joined the presentation, highlighting the important role local businesses play in supporting Cullman’s economy and community identity.   Small businesses throughout Cullman continue to drive job creation, provide essential services, and contribute to the city’s growth and character. Mayor Jacobs encouraged residents to support local businesses throughout the week and year-round, emphasizing the impact these businesses have on local families and the overall success of the community. Cullman City Schools Earn National Recognition for Academic Excellence Cullman City Schools was recently recognized on a national level for its outstanding academic growth and student performance, further solidifying the district’s reputation as one of Alabama’s top-performing school systems. The recognition highlights the school system’s continued commitment to academic achievement, student success, and innovative learning opportunities across all grade levels.   Cullman City Schools has consistently ranked among the top school districts in the state, with strong performance in areas including standardized testing, college and career readiness, and overall student growth. Local leaders and educators credited the achievement to the hard work of students, teachers, administrators, and families who continue to support excellence throughout the district. City Pursues Federal Grant Funding to Improve Roadway Safety The City of Cullman is taking steps to enhance roadway safety throughout the community by pursuing funding through the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) Grant Program. The proposed initiatives aim to improve safety for pedestrians, bicyclists, motorists, and other vulnerable road users through projects such as road safety audits, pedestrian and bicycle infrastructure improvements, and other data-driven safety strategies.   To support the effort, the City Council also approved a contract with Simple Grants, a professional consulting firm that will assist with grant writing and application development for the competitive federal program. If awarded, the grant funding would help the City continue investing in safer, more accessible transportation infrastructure while supporting long-term community growth and quality of life. Cullman Fire Rescue Hosts Meaningful Memorial Day “Murph” Tribute On Memorial Day, Cullman Fire Rescue hosted the 2nd Annual Memorial Day Tribute “Murph” workout, bringing together firefighters, law enforcement officers, first responders, veterans, and community members for a meaningful morning of remembrance and reflection. The event honored the brave men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in service to our country and communities, while also recognizing the spirit of dedication and selflessness that continues through those who serve today. Officers with the Cullman Police Department joined Cullman Fire Rescue in completing the demanding “Murph” workout, a nationally recognized tribute workout named in honor of Navy SEAL Lt. Michael P. Murphy, who was killed in action in Afghanistan in 2005 and posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor. Traditionally consisting of a one-mile run, 100 pull-ups, 200 push-ups, 300 squats, and another one-mile run, the workout symbolizes endurance, sacrifice, and perseverance in the face of adversity.   Throughout the event, participants pushed through the physical challenge not for competition, but in remembrance of those who gave everything in defense of others. The atmosphere reflected both camaraderie and gratitude, serving as a reminder that Memorial Day is more than a holiday. It is a time to pause, reflect, and honor the cost of freedom and public service. Cullman Fire Rescue’s continued commitment to hosting the Memorial Day Tribute “Murph” workout has helped establish the event as a meaningful local tradition that brings the community together in shared appreciation and remembrance. Thank you to Cullman Fire Rescue for organizing and hosting this important tribute, to the Cullman Police Department and all participants for taking part, and to the sponsors and supporters who helped make the event possible.   Governor Ivey Announces $1 Million Grant for Recovery and Workforce Training in Cullman Gov. Kay Ivey recently announced a $1 million grant through the Appalachian Regional Commission to support addiction recovery and workforce development efforts in Cullman. The funding will assist The Foundry Ministries in constructing a new 11,400-square-foot facility at Foundry Farm, expanding access to counseling, recovery programs, education and job training opportunities for individuals overcoming addiction.   The City of Cullman is also contributing an additional $1 million toward the project, further supporting long-term recovery resources and workforce readiness initiatives that will positively impact the local community. City leaders say the project reflects Cullman’s continued commitment to creating opportunities that strengthen both individuals and families across the community. Cullman Christkindlmarkt Named Alabama’s 2026 Event of the Year The Cullman Christkindlmarkt has been named Alabama’s 2026 Event of the Year by the Alabama Tourism Department, recognizing the festival’s continued impact on tourism, community engagement, and economic growth throughout the state. Held annually in downtown Cullman, the German-inspired holiday market has become one of the Southeast’s premier Christmas destinations, attracting visitors from across the country with artisan vendors, live entertainment, seasonal attractions, and family-friendly experiences. According to visitor analytics from the 2025 season, guests traveled to Cullman from all 50 states, with approximately 60,000 visitors coming from outside of Alabama alone.   Local leaders shared that the recognition reflects years of intentional planning and the community’s commitment to creating a meaningful holiday tradition that continues to grow each year. The event also provides a major economic boost to Cullman’s hotels, restaurants, retailers, and downtown businesses during the holiday season. The official award presentation will take place during the Alabama Governor’s Conference on Tourism in July. City Council President Kim Hall Visits East Elementary for Historic Semiquincentennial Celebration On May 5, 2026, East Elementary School proudly welcomed City Council President Kim Hall as a guest speaker during its special Semiquincentennial Celebration—an event honoring both the upcoming 250th birthday of the United States and East Elementary’s remarkable 90th anniversary of serving students and families. The celebration, themed around civic responsibility, patriotism, and the founding principles of our nation, brought together students, educators, veterans, and community leaders for a meaningful day of reflection, education, and unity. As part of East Elementary’s commitment as a Semiquincentennial School, the program focused on educating students about the Declaration of Independence, the responsibilities of citizenship, and America’s ongoing pursuit of “liberty and justice for all.” President Hall spoke to students and guests during Goal 2 of the program, emphasizing the importance of civic duty, active citizenship, and the role every generation plays in preserving freedom. Hall encouraged students to understand that being a good citizen begins now—through kindness, responsibility, service, and a commitment to their community. “America’s story has always depended on ordinary people doing extraordinary things through service, responsibility, and courage,” Hall shared. “Each of you has a role to play in shaping the future of our city, our state, and our nation.”   Hall’s message aligned perfectly with the event’s guiding principles: To Educate, To Engage, and Unite. Throughout the program, students explored America’s founding ideals, heard from community leaders, honored veterans, and celebrated East Elementary’s own legacy of educational excellence. The event also highlighted the school’s dedication to preparing future generations to understand both the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship. By participating in this celebration, President Hall reinforced the City of Cullman’s commitment to investing in youth leadership, civic engagement, and strong community partnerships. East Elementary’s dual celebration of America 250 and its 90th birthday served as a powerful reminder that education is not only about academic success—but also about preparing young people to lead, serve, and uphold the values that define our nation. As the United States approaches its 250th birthday, events like this ensure that the next generation understands the significance of freedom, democracy, and civic responsibility—while honoring the schools and communities that help shape America’s future. Cullman City Council Recap: May 2026 Meetings Throughout three City Council meetings held during May, Cullman city leaders addressed a wide range of projects and initiatives involving public events, transportation safety, infrastructure improvements, economic development, city operations, and community recognitions. Community Events and Public Activities Several special event requests were approved throughout the month as the City prepares for a busy summer season filled with community activities and public gatherings. During the May 11 meeting, the Council approved requests for St. Paul’s Lutheran School Field Day, the Cullman County Public Library Summer Reading Kickoff Block Party, Community Heroes Day at the library, the American Cancer Society Relay for Life event, and the Christina Chambers Twilight 5K Run. The May 26 meeting featured approval of additional community events including St. Paul’s Lutheran Church Vacation Bible School, The Link’s “Race to Restock” scavenger hunt, Chamber of Commerce “Tasty Tuesday” events, and the Friends of the Public Library 5K/Fun Run. Transportation Safety and Infrastructure Planning Transportation safety and infrastructure planning were major focuses during May’s meetings. During a special called meeting held May 18, the Council approved an agreement with Simple Grants to help the City prepare and submit an application for the federal Safe Streets and Roads for All (SS4A) grant program. The agreement for grant writing and application assistance will not exceed $10,000. The SS4A program provides funding for projects aimed at improving roadway safety and reducing serious traffic accidents and fatalities involving drivers, pedestrians, bicyclists, and other roadway users. City leaders explained that the grant application process requires specialized work involving data analysis, project planning, and technical writing. By partnering with Simple Grants, the City hopes to strengthen its application and improve its chances of securing federal funding for future traffic safety and transportation improvement projects throughout Cullman. Additional infrastructure-related actions approved during the May 26 meeting included applying for a FY2027 Transportation Alternatives Program (TAP) grant for handicapped accessible sidewalk improvements beginning at the intersection of 4th Avenue NE and Clark Street NE to 3rd Avenue NE, then continuing along 3rd Avenue NE to the intersections of Arnold Street NE and 1st Street NE. The project is intended to improve pedestrian accessibility, connectivity, and safety for residents and visitors traveling through the area. Council members also approved a contract with Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood for professional engineering services related to the Taxiway Rehabilitation Project at Cullman Regional Airport in an amount not to exceed $58,381. The airport rehabilitation project is funded through a 90-5-5 split, with 90% federal funding, 5% state funding, and the remaining 5% local share split evenly between the City of Cullman and Cullman County. City Operations and Public Works Throughout the month, the Council approved numerous bids, contracts, and operational updates connected to ongoing city services and infrastructure projects. Those approvals included contracts for concrete materials and finishing, plumbing services, electrical work, excavation and utility services, asphalt materials and paving, pipe purchases, surface treatments, and rock materials used in various city projects.   Additional personnel and operational actions included amendments involving position control and multiple departmental job descriptions. During the May 11 meeting, the Council approved adding a Clerk position within the Water Department, reclassifying an Operator II position to a Lab Technician position within the Wastewater Treatment Plant, and approving updated job descriptions for Communications/Dispatch and Human Resources. Additional job description updates approved during the May 26 meeting involved positions within Municipal Court, the Garage Department, Sanitation, the Street Department, and the Right of Way Department. The Council also addressed nuisance abatement proceedings involving two properties identified as public nuisances under City ordinances. These actions are part of the City’s ongoing efforts to address unsafe or neglected properties and help protect the health, safety, and appearance of local neighborhoods. Council members additionally approved annual sanitary landfill financial assurance requirements, a routine measure required to ensure funding is in place for future landfill closure, maintenance, and environmental compliance obligations associated with the City’s landfill operations. Retiree Appreciation Bonus Council members also approved participation in a one-time retiree bonus authorized under Act 2026-608 of the Alabama Legislature. The action allows eligible City of Cullman retirees and beneficiaries of deceased retirees who retired prior to October 1, 2025, and who are receiving monthly retirement benefits through the Employees’ Retirement System (ERS) as of September 30, 2026, to receive a one-time lump sum payment. Under the legislation, retirees will receive $1 for each month of credited service in their retirement account. The payment is scheduled to be distributed separately from monthly retirement benefits in October 2026. City officials said the estimated cost to the City is approximately $57,520. Council members said the action reflects continued appreciation for retired City employees and their years of service to the Cullman community. Former employees across multiple departments helped support the City’s infrastructure, operations, and public services throughout their careers, and the one-time payment serves as an acknowledgment of those contributions. Economic Development Economic development was another major topic during the May 26 meeting, as the Council approved a tax abatement agreement for Project Panel, a project expected to bring a $5.3 million investment and create 18 new jobs in Cullman. Recognitions and Department Reports Throughout the month’s meetings, updates were provided from various City departments regarding ongoing projects, operations, and community activities. Several special recognitions and presentations were also held, including recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month and honoring Cullman High School soccer coach Will Drake for being named the AHSAA Class 6A Boys’ Soccer Coach of the Year. Residents wishing to watch City Council meetings may do so by visiting the City of Cullman’s YouTube channel, @cullman_alabama. June City Council meeting dates are June 15th and June 22nd at Cullman City Hall. Work sessions are at 6PM and the meeting start at 7PM. All are welcome to attend. City of Cullman Hosts Annual Employee Safety Meeting and Wellness Luncheon City of Cullman employees gathered on May 27th at Festhalle for the City’s annual Citywide Employee Safety Meeting. The event focused on workplace safety, employee wellness, and recognizing the importance of maintaining a safe working environment across all City departments. Employees enjoyed lunch catered by Freddie Day Catering, and those who completed their annual health screenings were eligible for door prizes during the event.   A special thank you to Chris Dotson, Risk Management Director, along with Mayor Woody Jacobs and the Cullman City Council for serving employees during today’s luncheon and helping make the event a success. The City of Cullman appreciates the hard work and dedication of all City employees who help serve our community every day.   Cullman Restaurant Week Announcement Draws Excitement Community leaders, restaurant partners, media members, and supporters gathered Tuesday afternoon to celebrate the official announcement of Cullman’s first-ever Restaurant Week, set to debut this September. Guests enjoyed incredible food prepared and served by local favorites including Puckett’s Restaurant, Johnny’s Bar-B-Q, and All Steak Restaurant, showcasing the outstanding culinary talent found throughout the community.   The event highlighted the excitement already building around Cullman Restaurant Week and the opportunities it will bring to support local restaurants and businesses. Organizers expressed appreciation to everyone who attended and helped make the announcement a success, while encouraging the community to stay tuned for more details and ways to get involved in the months ahead. City of Cullman Honors Coach Will Drake as AHSAA Class 6A Coach of the Year At the May 26 City Council meeting, the Mayor and City Council honored Cullman High School Head Soccer Coach Will Drake for being named the AHSAA Class 6A Boys’ Soccer Coach of the Year. Coach Drake led the Bearcats to an area championship and a third-round appearance in the AHSAA playoffs during the 2026 season. This recognition reflects his leadership, dedication, sportsmanship, and commitment to the student-athletes of Cullman High School.   The City of Cullman is proud to recognize local educators, coaches, and students who positively represent our community across the State of Alabama. Congratulations to Coach Drake on this outstanding achievement! Sign up for alerts today! Stay in the know with Cullman’s Alerts and Notifications system for street closures, emergencies, and other important updates. Text CullmanAL to 38276 or visit CullmanAL.gov/alerts to get started. Also, catch up on City Council meetings and more on YouTube @cullman_alabama or Facebook @CullmanCity.   Message from Mayor Woody Jacobs May was another busy month for the City of Cullman, and I appreciate all of our employees, volunteers, businesses and community partners who continue working hard to help move our city forward. During May, I was proud to proclaim Small Business Week to recognize the local businesses and entrepreneurs who play such a big role in our community and local economy. Small businesses are the backbone of Cullman, and I appreciate the investment they continue making here. I also proclaimed April 30th as Therapy Animal Day to recognize the therapy animals and handlers who provide comfort and support to so many people in hospitals, schools, nursing homes and other facilities throughout our area. I’ll admit, posing for pictures with several therapy dogs and their handlers was not something I’d ever done before, but they were all very well-behaved. In addition, I proclaimed May as Mental Health Awareness Month. Mental health issues affect a lot of families, and I think it is important that people know resources and support are available and that these conversations matter. On May 27, I attended the annual City-Wide Employee Safety Meeting at Festhalle. Safety has to remain a priority in every department, and meetings like this are a good reminder to look out for one another and make sure every employee goes home safely to their families at the end of the day.   The City Council and I also had the opportunity to serve lunch to City employees as a small way of saying thank you for the work they do each day to serve the people of Cullman. This month also included several ribbon cuttings for local businesses and organizations. It is always encouraging to see continued growth and investment throughout Cullman, and I appreciate everyone who continues choosing to open, expand and invest here. Our Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism employees worked hard getting WildWater ready for the summer season. WildWater officially opened Memorial Day weekend, which turned out to be quite a rainy weekend. I appreciate the CPRST team and everyone involved who worked behind the scenes to get everything (except for the Lazy River, which is almost finished) ready for families and visitors to enjoy this summer. As we move into the summer months, I’m looking forward to continuing work on projects throughout the city and keeping the momentum going. Summer is always a busy time in Cullman, and I appreciate the support of our citizens as we continue working to get things done and keep moving our city forward. CITY OF CULLMAN www.CullmanAL.gov 204 Second Ave NE Cullman, AL 35055 256-775-7109 [email protected]