From the desk of Council Member Michelle Watkins, District 1

Huntsville City Council • District 1 June 2026

woman at podium at graduation ceremony with multiple flags in background

large group of people pose for photo with blue projection screens in background

Honoring Drake State and Graduates

Council Member Michelle Watkins had the honor of addressing graduates at the Drake State Community & Technical College spring commencement ceremony on May 7. “Education is the very essence of growth, success and it transforms lives, strengthens communities and it opens doors to opportunities that once seemed out of reach,” Council Member Watkins told the graduates.

Council Member Watkins also presented a resolution to Drake State at a recent Council meeting, commemorating the college on its 65 year anniversary and its recent achievements.

Read the Resolution

graphic for district 1 community meeting

Community Meeting with Huntsville Utilities

Council Member Watkins will hold a community meeting with Huntsville Utilities on Tuesday, June 2, at 5:30 p.m., at the North Huntsville Public Library, 3011 Sparkman Dr. NW. The meeting will focus on an 83,000-pound battery recently delivered to Huntsville Utilities to store electricity during off-peak hours and discharge during peak demand periods, which will relieve stress on transformers and grid equipment by reducing overloads.

Council Member Watkins will also hold a District 1 Drop-In on Monday, June 15, from 6-7:30 p.m. at the Dr. Robert Shurney Legacy Center, 3011 Sparkman Dr. NW. It's an opportunity for informal conversations with Council Member Watkins about District 1 issues or Huntsville as a whole.

main entrance of Dr. Richard Showers Sr. Recreation Center

Showers Center Renovation Moves Forward

The first steps toward a dramatic renovation of the Dr. Richard Showers, Sr. Recreation Center are underway. The City Council approved plans for the project, which will include upgrades inside the building as well as the ballfields and grounds surrounding it, that includes an architectural design services contract with Nola | VanPeursem Architects.

“This is a much-needed rehabilitation of a popular and busy recreation center, and I am grateful for the support of my colleagues on the City Council and the City administration for moving forward on this project,” Council Member Watkins said. “Once completed, it will be like a new facility and one that all of Huntsville can be proud of and enjoy.”

graphic for trevor lacey basketball camp

Sign Up for Trevor Lacey Basketball Camp

Registration is ongoing for the Trevor Lacey Basketball camp on Saturday, June 20, at the new John Hunt Park Recreation Center adjacent to Joe Davis Stadium. There is no charge for the camp, which is open to ages 10-17. Transportation will be available from Jemison High School to the recreation center for the camp conducted by the former Butler High School and University of Alabama star.

graphic for district 1 community health fair

Having Fun at Community Health Fair

Getting healthy can be fun at the District 1 Community Health Fair on Saturday, June 27, from 9 a.m. to noon at Johnson Legacy center, 6000 Cecil Fain Dr. It’s an opportunity to learn more about personal health and wellness by visiting the Huntsville Hospital Mobile Medical Unit, getting a free medical screening and speaking with local healthcare vendors. There will also be fun activities for kids – including snow cones, crafts and a foam machine – as well as live music and line dancing for all.

Spin & Skate Teen Jam at Stoner Park

Lace up your skates and join the fun for the Spin & Skate Teen Jam at Stoner Park Skating Rink, 3723 Bragg St. NW. The Jam is for ages 13-18 on Saturday, June 13, from 4-7 p.m. Skaters of all skill levels are welcome. Teens can bring their own skates or take advantage of on-site rentals on a first-come, first-served basis. Those needing rentals are encouraged to arrive early. Concessions will be available for purchase from local food vendors.

four people pose for photo after receiving resolution with flags in background

Celebrating 30 Years at G's Country Kitchen

One of Huntsville’s most beloved hometown restaurants is celebrating its 30th anniversary. Council Member Watkins presented a resolution honoring G’s Country Kitchen to owners Maurice and Greta Russell. “For three decades, G’s Country Kitchen has provided more than meals, offering a place of fellowship, connection and community engagement,” the resolution said in part. “This has become a place where residents from all walks of life gather to build strong connections, exchange ideas, discuss business and enjoy genuine camaraderie.”

Read the Resolution

photo of man in hat looking over large valley with green trees

Preserving Indigenous History in Huntsville

As Historic Preservation Month in May draws to an end, the City spotlighted the rich Indigenous history in Huntsville and north Alabama. A panel discussion illuminated the value and importance today of Indigenous history. “We can’t understand a place unless we recognize all the cultures that shaped it,” said Ben Hoksbergen, Cultural Resources Manager for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center.

Watch the Video

After School Bash Returns to Big Spring Park

One of Huntsville’s favorite events not only provides a fun family evening but also benefits area teachers is returning on Saturday, June 6, to Big Spring Park. The After School Bash will be from 4-8 p.m., featuring bounce houses, interactive public safety demonstrations, local food trucks and vendors and live entertainment by Sipsey Falls. Attendees are encouraged to bring donations and help “Pack the Patrol Car” with school supplies that will directly benefit Huntsville-area educators through Free 2 Teach.

Find Out More

COMING UP

June 1: City Council Work Session with Huntsville City Schools, 3 p.m., Huntsville City Hall

June 2: District 1 Community Meeting with Huntsville Utilities, 5:30 p.m., North Huntsville Library, 3011 Sparkman Dr. NW

June 11: City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Huntsville City Hall

June 15: District 1 Drop-In, 6-7:30 p.m., Dr. Robert Shurney Legacy Center, 3011 Sparkman Dr. NW

June 19: Juneteenth, City of Huntsville Offices Closed

June 25: City Council Meeting, 5:30 p.m., Huntsville City Hall

June 27: District 1 Community Health Fair, 9 a.m. to noon, Johnson Legacy Center, 6000 Cecil Fain Dr.

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Huntsville, AL | 35801 US

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