Mayor highlights growth, investment and future opportunities
During the 2026 State of the City Address, economic growth, infrastructure improvements, public safety investments, housing development and tourism expansion were among the highlights presented by Scottsboro Mayor Jim McCamy during the address hosted by the Mountain Lakes Chamber of Commerce. The annual event brought together local elected officials, business leaders, educators and community members to reflect on the city’s accomplishments and discuss plans for the future.
McCamy emphasized that collaboration among city government, Jackson County, local schools, healthcare providers and business leaders has helped drive progress throughout the community.
“Communication, collaboration and cooperation continue to guide us,” McCamy said. “More importantly, they are producing results for our citizens.”
The mayor noted that Scottsboro remains in a strong financial position, with the city’s fiscal year 2026 budget totaling $30.5 million, an increase of nearly $1.4 million from the previous year. Approximately $20 million has been budgeted for employee salaries and benefits, reflecting the city’s continued investment in its workforce.
Economic development remained a central focus of the presentation. McCamy praised the work of the Jackson County Economic Development Authority and the Scottsboro Industrial Development Board for supporting existing industries while recruiting new investment.
Over the past five years, economic development efforts have resulted in five new industries, nine expansions, approximately 148 jobs and nearly $57 million in capital investment. During 2025, the Scottsboro Industrial Development Board approved tax abatements for Advanced Displays and Lozier, supporting a combined investment of approximately $3.5 million and creating 34 new jobs.
The mayor also highlighted the reactivation of the Scottsboro-Jackson County Port Authority, which had remained dormant for years. The authority is once again active and moving products along the Tennessee River.
Addressing one of the community’s most pressing needs, McCamy reported that nearly 300 homes are currently in some stage of planning or development through multiple residential projects. Development activity continues in Jackson Bend, Stonebridge, Deer Meadow Estates and other proposed housing projects designed to meet growing demand.
Transportation improvements also remain a priority. The city has completed approximately 33.6 miles of paving with an investment of roughly $1.6 million. Additional projects include the completion of Alex Garcia Street and ongoing planning for improvements at the U.S. Highway 72 and Micah Way intersection through a state-funded ATRIP grant.
Utility providers continue to prepare for future growth. Scottsboro Electric Power Board reported continued customer growth and announced that its fiber-to-the-home project is now 99 percent complete. Scottsboro Water, Sewer and Gas continues to invest in water, sewer and natural gas infrastructure while receiving statewide and national recognition for operational excellence.
McCamy praised Scottsboro City Schools for continued academic and extracurricular success. The school system serves more than 2,200 students and recently welcomed Superintendent Jennifer Williams. The mayor highlighted achievements in dual enrollment, scholarship attainment, fine arts and athletics, including state championships in boys cross country, boys indoor track, boys golf, and boys and girls bowling.
The mayor also recognized the success of the new Fire Science Program at the Kevin Dukes Career Innovation Academy, which provides students with industry certifications and hands-on training in public safety fields.
Healthcare remains another strength for the community. Highlands Medical Center provided care to more than 123,000 individuals through inpatient, outpatient and clinic visits during the past year. Since joining the Huntsville Hospital Health System, more than $16 million has been invested in the local hospital, with additional investments planned during fiscal year 2026.
Public safety was another major focus of the address. The Scottsboro Police Department responded to more than 19,500 calls for service during the past year while expanding training, equipment and personnel resources. Recent investments include body cameras, ballistic protection equipment, patrol vehicles, drones and a new drug enforcement unit. The city also implemented a new public safety pay scale and expanded specialized response capabilities.
The Scottsboro Fire Department responded to more than 2,600 calls while completing more than 10,000 hours of training. Fire prevention efforts resulted in hundreds of inspections and the correction of more than 1,000 code violations.
Tourism continues to serve as a major economic driver. Lodging tax revenue increased by more than ten percent during fiscal year 2025, generating approximately $592,000. Goose Pond Colony remains one of the city’s most important attractions, hosting major fishing tournaments, recreational events and festivals throughout the year.
The city recently celebrated the opening of Two Sisters Square, a new downtown gathering space featuring murals, fountains, covered seating and a performance stage. Downtown Scottsboro also received national recognition as an Accredited Main Street America program and was honored by Main Street Alabama for business development, reinvestment and community impact.
McCamy also announced that the city is exploring significant future development opportunities at Goose Pond Colony and Goose Pond Island through a letter of intent with UP Development. Plans could include expanded lodging, recreation, retail and mixed-use development. Public meetings will be held as the project progresses.
During the event, McCamy introduced a new honor, the Legacy Award, which will be presented only in exceptional circumstances to recognize lasting contributions to the community.
The inaugural Legacy Award was presented to the Impact Learning Center and its founder, Dr. Brad Bradford, for more than three decades of service through literacy programs, workforce development, mentoring and educational opportunities that have impacted thousands of residents throughout Jackson County.
The 2026 Mayor’s Award was presented to Scottsboro Police Department Lieutenant Derek Porch in recognition of his nearly 30 years of service, leadership and perseverance following injuries sustained during an officer-involved shooting. McCamy praised Porch’s courage, resilience and dedication to the community.
Concluding his remarks, McCamy said the city’s future remains bright.
“When you look around Scottsboro today, you can see the progress. You can see the growth, the investment and the momentum building across our community,” McCamy said. “We’re growing, we’re moving forward, and the future is bright.”
