Welcome to the new decade! While the past decade has been both rewarding and challenging, many of us in public works find ourselves faced with increased work loads and infrastructure maintenance needs, while having to significantly reduce our budget costs and personnel, while maintaining our same level of service. Somehow the math just doesn’t add up.

The Alabama Chapter of APWA is made of members and affiliates who are meeting these challenges every day. Your Board of Directors will use this year to help educate its members on how they can lean on APWA to provide solutions and answers to the problems they are managing. APWA has resources and tools designed to do just that. “Click, Listen, and Learn” offers a great way to receive training without leaving your area. “Info Now” communities can connect you with people all over the U.S. and Canada who may have already solved the very problem you are facing. Of course, there are many more.

In response to shrinking budges and limited travel opportunities in many of our cities and towns, this year’s Annual Conference will be moved inland a few miles to Montgomery, Alabama. Montgomery has laid claim to the distinction that “Change Happens Here” so; it is fitting that it hosts our event during these challenging times. The date of this year’s conference was selected to coincide with National Public Works Week. Traditionally this time has been set aside to recognize and highlight the contributions that we make every day as involved public servants. Having the event and celebration literally on the front doorstep of our capitol will give us a unique opportunity to make sure our story is told and heard. I look forward to a great convention and great year in public works.