News & Updates
Discover how HPD serves the community through the Citizens Police Academy
July 10, 2026
The Huntsville Police Department (HPD) is accepting applications for its Fall 2026 Citizens Police Academy, an opportunity for community members to get a behind-the-scenes look at how the department serves Huntsville every day. The nine-week program gives participants an inside perspective on the people, training and teamwork behind modern policing. Through classroom discussions, demonstrations and hands-on activities, those in the academy will learn about the department’s specialized units, daily operations and [more]
Read MoreCity of Huntsville approves engineering contract for Maple Hill Cemetery Scatter Garden
July 9, 2026
As more families choose cremation over full-service traditional burials, the City is creating a peaceful garden space at Maple Hill Cemetery to say goodbye to a loved one. Plans for a scatter garden at Maple Hill moved forward following approval of a $19,080 engineering services contract with Schoel Engineering Company. The agreement includes design services, surveying and construction administration and is expected to take about one year. The project will expand memorial [more]
Read MoreCity of Huntsville approves creation of tax increment financing district
July 9, 2026
The City of Huntsville approved the creation of a tax increment financing (TIF) district designed to fund a major expansion at the Von Braun Center (VBC) and other infrastructure projects in the downtown area. Known as TIF 9, it does not create a new tax. TIF districts capture revenue stemming from future growth in property tax revenue generated by new development within the district. Property tax rates are not increased and [more]
Read MoreHuntsville approves engineering design contract for Old Big Cove Road
July 9, 2026
The City approved an engineering design contract for the second phase of improvements to Old Big Cove Road. The contract with Barge Design Solutions includes work on 1.6 miles of Old Big Cove Road between Taylor Road and Claudia Drive. Federal funds will cover 80 percent of the $1,181,982 engineering design contract with the City funding the remaining 20 percent. The improvements on Old Big Cove Road will include additional lanes with [more]
Read MoreRyan Renaud declared winner of Huntsville school board seat
July 9, 2026
The Huntsville City Council voted to declare incumbent Ryan Renaud as the winner of the District 4 seat on the Huntsville City Schools Board of Education. When qualifications for municipal elections ended on June 23, Renaud was the only candidate in District 4. According to state law, a City Council shall declare an unopposed municipal candidate as the winner, upon proper certification. The municipal election is Tuesday, Aug. 25, for City Council races [more]
Read MoreCity Council approves 1 percent lodging tax to benefit Von Braun Center expansion
July 9, 2026
The Huntsville City Council approved an ordinance at its July 9 meeting to create an additional 1 percent lodging tax. The revenue from the tax will be allocated to the expansion of the Von Braun Center (VBC). The tax has the support of the Huntsville/Madison County Convention & Visitors Bureau as well as other hospitality industries. The Council at Thursday’s meeting will also consider the creation of a tax increment financing (TIF) [more]
Read MoreMale Mentorship registration opening soon
July 9, 2026
Huntsville Parks & Recreation’s popular Male Mentorship Program will soon open for registration. The program also offers opportunities for dedicated and compassionate mentors to join the team. Scheduled throughout the 2026-2027 school year, the Male Mentorship Program empowers young men ages 8-15 to grow into confident, positive individuals. Through engaging activities, supportive mentors and inspirational speakers, participants gain essential life skills and build meaningful connections in a safe, encouraging environment. Registration opens on [more]
Read MoreHPD charges Huntsville man with murder following fatal shooting on Highway 72
July 8, 2026
The Huntsville Police Department (HPD) has arrested and charged a man with murder following a fatal shooting Wednesday morning. On July 8 around 11 a.m., HPD officers responded to a shooting in the 7500 block of Highway 72. When officers arrived, they found a man suffering from a gunshot wound and learned the suspected shooter was inside a nearby business. Officers entered the business and safely detained Austin Ballesteros, 22, of Huntsville, without incident. The [more]
Read MoreCity of Huntsville announces second cohort of Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council
July 8, 2026
The City of Huntsville is proud to welcome 30 students to the second cohort of the Mayor’s Youth Advisory Council (MYAC), a yearlong leadership and civic engagement program designed to elevate youth voices in municipal decision‑making. MYAC, led by the Office of Multicultural Affairs, provides rising high school freshmen through seniors the opportunity to learn how their city works, collaborate with civic leaders and contribute youth perspectives to community initiatives. Students gain [more]
Read More805 After Five returns July 16 with Susannah Joffe, Rob Aldridge
July 8, 2026
One of Huntsville’s favorite free live‑music traditions continues as 805 After Five returns to Butler Green at Campus No. 805 on Thursday, July 16, from 5-9 p.m., headlined by rising indie‑pop artist Susannah Joffe with acclaimed Huntsville musician Rob Aldridge opening. Known for bringing nationally emerging talent to the Rocket City, 805 After Five blends new musical voices with Huntsville’s vibrant community atmosphere. The series invites residents to discover artists they’ll [more]
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