2025 Year in Review Report

2025 Year In Review Report

.Key Accomplishments Under Mayor Dana Snyder’s Leadership (January – April 2025 Highlights)

Championing Youth and Education

  • Established the Mayor’s Youth Council in partnership with Southside High School leadership, fostering civic engagement and leadership among local students.

  • Regularly recognized and supported student athletic achievements, including the state champion Southside Wrestlers, Cheer Squad, and Bowling Team.

  • Supported education funding by encouraging voter support for the renewal of the 9-mill school tax.

Public Safety and First Responder Investment

  • Recognized officers for lifesaving actions and implemented a modern digital scheduling system for the Police Department.

  • Took steps to enroll Southside Police in the Alabama Chiefs of Police Accreditation Program, boosting accountability and transparency.

  • Secured a $25,000 grant toward a new rescue boat for the Fire Department and approved city matching funds to complete the purchase.

  • Ensured full support for emergency equipment upgrades, including radios and vehicle replacements for public safety teams.

Sound Financial Management

  • Oversaw a clean financial audit with no findings and $800,000 + increase in fund balance.

  • Proposed and advocated for formal financial policies including a 15% emergency reserve fund—even though the policy was voted down, this demonstrated a commitment to fiscal accountability.

  • Reinvested idle funds into higher-yield C.D.s to increase returns for the city.

Infrastructure and Growth

  • Moving forward with the School Drive sidewalk project, funded primarily by an ALDOT TAP grant. Despite resistance, continued pushing for school-area pedestrian safety improvements.

  • Supported installation of a LED sign at City Hall to enhance public communication.

Community Support and Recognition

  • Issued proclamations for Child Abuse Prevention, Autism Awareness, and Human Trafficking Awareness, partnering with local organizations like the Barrie Center and the Autism Foundation of Gadsden.

  • Provided financial support and official recognition for key events like BASH in the Bend and Cruising for a Cure Car Show, while promoting transparency in sponsorship designations.

Commitment to Transparency and Governance

  • Proposed and supported adjusting compensation for future mayor and council positions to attract qualified leaders, with accountability tied to certification standards.

  • Continued to emphasize live-streamed council meetings, open financial discussions, and citizen participation in planning and funding discussions.