By SPEAKIN’ OUT NEWS
During the October City Council meeting, Huntsville Mayor Tommy Battle recognized the City of Huntsville Planning Department for its leadership and collaboration in guiding the city’s continued growth. The recognition came in honor of National Community Planning Month and National History Month, both celebrated in October.
Standing alongside Planning Services Manager Thomas Nunez, Community Development Manager Scott Irwin, and Urban and Long-Range Planning Manager Dennis Madsen, Mayor Battle presented a proclamation highlighting the importance of community planning in creating an equitable, sustainable, and connected city.
“Planning is a team sport,” Mayor Battle said. “These are the people who have helped our city grow—and grow in a way that works for our people. Change is constant, but community planning allows residents to help shape the shared vision of our neighborhoods and our future.”
The proclamation also tied in National History Month, emphasizing that progress and preservation go hand in hand under this year’s theme: “Huntsville on the Rise: Restoration, Inclusiveness, Sustainability, and Equity.”
Following the presentation, Planning Services Manager Thomas Nunez expressed appreciation for the acknowledgment.
“It’s not just us doing the work,” Nunez said. “There are more than 225 planners across our city—citizens, community leaders, and partners—helping to make Huntsville a better place collectively.”
Urban and Long-Range Planning Manager Dennis Madsen added,
“Community planning begins with community. It starts and ends with our residents. We truly appreciate everyone’s participation in making Huntsville stronger and more inclusive.”
Mayor Battle closed the presentation by thanking the department for its ongoing work in community development.
“Thank you for making Huntsville a very special place,” he said.