A LETTER FROM THE MAYOR OF HELENA
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To the citizens of the city of Helena and visitors alike, I want to welcome you to our city highlight magazine—Explore Helena. This annual publication gives everyone the very best of Helena. People often ask, “Why Helena?” The answer is going to give you something that we bet you cannot find anywhere else in the country. Caring people who truly value to the culture of a small close-knit city, great schools and educators, miles of trails, the gorgeous Cahaba River and Buck Creek, a committed city staff, parks and playgrounds, and safe neighborhoods are just a few of the reasons why people choose “Helena: A Community To Call Home.” Helena has experienced significant growth in the past decade, yet we retain a small-town feeling, evidenced by events such as our city-wide Christmas in Helena Tree Lighting, parade and holiday market. In summer, we enjoy Old Town LIVE music events, a vibrant farm market and a July 4 fireworks display that rivals many big cities. The city’s biggest summer event is Helena’s Buck Creek Festival capped off with thousands of rubber ducks racing down the dam to determine a winner. This is just a small sample of such events, and we hope you’ll join in the fun! We’re close to Birmingham, with its museums, hospitals, new stadium, ballparks and other attractions, all of which are easily accessible. As a family based community, families can always visit
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the Helena Museum, stop at the Caboose, get your kids involved in recreational sports, or simply relax with great food and beverages in Old Town. Our emergency first responders, our well-trained fire department and a dedicated police force (including community police officers and school liaisons) help keep us safe. Helena is considered one of the safest city’s in the nation year after year. We’ve built a close relationship with our public schools and provide an innovative grant program for teachers to fund projects that help facilitate learning. The Senior Program provides a place and activities dedicated to enhancing the lives of seniors. We enjoy this quality of life while having the lowest tax rate of all the cities in the region. Our city government works with a balanced budget, controls expenses and manages prudent reserves to preserve our future. Whether you’re a current resident or someone looking for a place to visit, live or build a business, know that you are welcome in Helena! “Helena: A Community To Call Home.” Together As One,
J. BRIAN PUCKETT Mayor of Helena
