By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor
ALABASTER
– After spending the last 17 years serving the city of Alabaster, Ward 1 representative and City Council President Sophie Martin has announced that she is not seeking reelection.
Martin was first elected to serve on the Alabaster City Council in 2008 and was subsequently reelected in 2012, 2016 and 2020. She has served on the Alabaster Water Board and as a member of the Alabaster Arts Council.
On June 6, Martin officially announced her decision to not run for reelection—solidifying this fall as the end of her time on the Alabaster City Council.
“For the last 17 years, I have had the distinct honor and privilege to serve Ward 1 residents and the city of Alabaster,” Martin said. “It is with profound gratitude and appreciation that I have decided not to seek reelection at the end of my current term.”
When Martin was elected in 2008, her goal was to “Build a Better Community.” Now, years later, Martin shared that she believes she accomplished that mission.
“My hope was to work for the greater good and leave Ward 1 and Alabaster a better place than how I found it,” she said. “I take great pride knowing we’ve accomplished that and so much more.”
Martin said she’s proud of the work that the Alabaster City Council has accomplished with the launch of numerous projects, facilities and amenities such as the Alabaster city school system, a new city hall, a senior center, new police station and enhancements to the city’s parks.
“I am beyond proud of what we’ve accomplished during my time on City Council,” Martin said.
Martin also highlighted the council’s continued focus on the safety and well-being of residents through the demolition of unsafe structures, the addition of new lighting along Highway 11 and the repair of many streets, including the complete repaving of Alabaster Boulevard.
“It’s extremely rewarding to see the results of our hard work and commitment, and the impact seen now and for generations to come,” Martin said. “None of this would have been possible without the support of my fellow council members, Mayor (Scott) Brakefield, our City Administrator Brian Binzer, our city department heads and staff and those who I served with previously.”
In concluding her announcement, Martin expressed her gratitude to the residents for the opportunity to serve them all these years.
“To the residents of Ward 1, thank you for allowing me to be your council representative,” she said. “It has truly been an honor. I am excited to see the progress continue and what lies ahead for Ward 1 and our great city.”
