dam.” The proposed conversion to a bikeway and walkway would create both a recreational asset and practical connector between communities. Youth sports programs demonstrate the successful activation of these natural resources. “We started a fishing team through the Alabama State Bass Angler Association about five years ago,” explains Dr. Nolin. The program has achieved remarkable success, “we’ve won a couple of state championships and had several of our kids move on to fish at the University of Montevallo and Faulkner University, they’ve won scholarships through recreational fishing and fishing in tournaments,” Dr. Nolin adds.These achievements not only showcase student talent but also reinforce Tallassee’s growing reputation as a destination for outdoor sports. LEADERSHIP’S VISION: THE ROAD AHEAD Tallassee’s leadership team maintains a clear,strategic vision that balances infrastructure investment with preservation of community values.“The city has put millions and will be putting millions in terms of updating all of our infrastructure,” says Hill. “With a 90 to 120 year old background of a mill town that’s been obviously a really big issue over the years is ensuring that our water, our sewer and our gas are all up to the highest standards for our community,” she notes, highlighting the particular challenge of modernizing systems in a historic town. “Now that we’ve kind of gotten those puzzle pieces in place, we can now build on that foundation.” For Hill, this progress must maintain Tallassee’s character. “I moved here about 26 years ago and I have fell in love with the community,” she reflects. “I’ve raised both of my kids through the same school that I graduated from in 1999. That continuity... keeping this as a family oriented place is one of the best, but we do want to see some of that growth so that we can compete with some of the other areas that are experiencing a lot more growth than us.” Her vision targets “small, but dedicated growth” over the next 14 to 24 months to remain competitive while preserving what residents cherish. This balanced approach thrives through collaboration. As Dr. Nolin notes,“we have several members in our community that serve in different aspects. It really 7 CIVIL AND MUNICIPAL VOLUME 06, ISSUE 06 TALLASSEE, AL
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