The Best of Pelham — Small City. Big Vision.

Pelham: Momentum for the Future

When people talk about growth, it can sometimes sound like empty platitudes, just words. But I truly believe Pelham is ready for more.

And here’s the good news: Pelham is already on the move. I believe our best days are still ahead. But momentum doesn’t carry itself. It takes thoughtful leadership and steady hands to keep progress moving in the right direction.

As Pelham continues its work to beautify Hwy 31, we can do more. As we focus our efforts to grow with purpose, market demand and wise planning will improve our landscape. That's the beauty of free enterprise. Government doesn't create business. Free and enterprising people do. The two can coexist so that Pelham can thrive. As a Pelham City Councilwoman, I will work to ensure that we lay out the welcome mat for excellent shopping, dining, tourism, and family-friendly entertainment opportunities that Pelham citizens and guests expect.

We’re already blessed with amenities most cities only dream of, the Ice Rink, Ballantrae Golf Course, the Racquet Club, parks, trails, and family-friendly spaces. Now’s the time to preserve them and highlight them like never before. Let’s turn our assets into bold strategies that draw families, businesses, and visitors from all over the region.

Imagine a large hotel near I-65 welcoming guests for tournaments at the Racquet Club or for weekend getaways to Ballantrae. Surround the hotel with walkable dining options, great restaurants where families and teams can gather after the big game. If we’ve got it, let’s flaunt it!

I’d love to explore expanding the offerings and tournament capabilities of both the Racquet Club and Ballantrae, turning them into true regional destinations, especially with Oak Mountain State Park right next door.

And here’s a fun, doable idea: many cities offer GO Cards or City Passes. Tiered passes that give residents and visitors discounted access to local attractions. Why not Pelham?

Pelham City Pass

Cities all across the country have launched versions of this concept. Whether it’s called a GO Card, a City Pass, or something entirely unique, the goal is simple: make it easy (and more affordable) to experience the best your city has to offer.

We already have the ingredients. The pass could pull them together in a creative way, giving folks a reason to spend a full weekend (or more!) exploring Pelham.

What could a Pelham City Pass include?

Let’s dream for a moment...

• A round of golf at Ballantrae

• A skate session at the Ice Rink

• A few frames at Oak Mountain Lanes

• A paddle boat ride or horseback trail ride at Oak Mountain State Park

• A discounted latte from Buck Creek Coffee

• 10% off dinner at Taco Mac or another participating restaurant

• A free kid’s cone from Cream & Cones with the purchase of an adult cone

And that’s just the beginning. Imagine brunch at Big Bad Breakfast, live music at Margarita Grill, or a relaxing afternoon at a future spa location, all part of the pass experience.

Any combination of participating local vendors, restaurants, venues, and attractions could be included, making each pass flexible and full of value.

The Big Picture

This isn’t just about discounts, it’s about community connection and economic momentum. A Pelham City Pass would encourage residents to support local businesses and give visitors a reason to stay a little longer, spend a little more, and fall in love with our city.

Small idea, big potential. And all while supporting local businesses and showcasing everything that makes Pelham special.

As your councilwoman, I’ll work to keep Pelham on solid financial footing. That means watching spending, avoiding waste, and making smart, strategic investments, the kind that grow our economy and lower the burden on families.

As we attract new businesses and build a stronger local economy, I want to explore reducing the recent tax increase by .25–.50%. Because when a city grows wisely, it should give back to the people who call it home.

We must stay competitive, not just with Hoover, but with any city aiming to be a magnet for great businesses and thriving communities. That means lean, accountable government, departments that serve with purpose, and leadership that listens.

Pelham is already on the right track. Let’s keep the momentum going, and take it to the next level, together.