NEWS RELEASE
For Immediate Release
June 5, 2026
Contact: Tana Collins-Allred
Community & Economic Development Director
tcollins@jaspercity.com
COMMUNITY INPUT HELPS SHAPE FOCUS 2030 STRATEGIC PLAN
JASPER, AL - The City of Jasper took another important step in the development of FOCUS 2030, its five-year strategic plan, during a community meeting held on June 4, 2026, at Jasper City Hall. More than 100 residents attended the meeting to review results from the recently completed FOCUS 2030 Community Survey and learn how their input will help shape the future of the city.
Approximately 1,200 residents, business owners, and community stakeholders participated in the online survey, providing valuable insight into the priorities, opportunities, and challenges facing Jasper over the next five years. Survey responses revealed strong support for strategic investments in infrastructure, economic and workforce development, recreation and quality of life improvements, public safety, and transparent, accountable government.
FOCUS 2030 is organized around five key areas of emphasis:
F – Fiscal Responsibility
O – Opportunity & Economic Development
C – Community & Quality of Life
U – Upgraded Infrastructure
S – Schools & Services
The survey demonstrated broad support for maintaining Jasper's strong financial position while making strategic investments that support growth and development. Residents emphasized the importance of modern infrastructure, economic and workforce development, expanded recreational opportunities, public safety, and educational partnerships. Feedback also highlighted a strong desire to create a community where young people choose to stay, families choose to invest, businesses choose to grow, and new residents are attracted to the opportunities and quality of life Jasper offers.
Community members consistently expressed pride in Jasper and its unique character. Rather than changing what makes the city special, respondents emphasized building upon existing strengths, enhancing community assets, and leveraging those advantages to support thoughtful growth. The vision that emerged through the survey was one of a community that continues to invest in itself, creates opportunities for future generations, and remains a place people are proud to call home.
Several themes emerged throughout the survey, including the need for long-term infrastructure planning, continued pursuit of grant funding, responsible stewardship of taxpayer resources, expanded recreation and youth opportunities, development of a regional sports and tournament destination, efforts to address homelessness, and improvements to animal shelter and animal control services.
“FOCUS 2030 is about building a clear path forward for our city, and that begins with listening to our community,” said Mayor Josh Gates. “We appreciate everyone who took the time to complete the survey, attend the meeting, and share their perspectives. The feedback we received will help ensure that this plan reflects the priorities, opportunities, and aspirations of the people we serve.”
During the meeting, City leadership shared survey findings and highlighted recurring themes that emerged from both quantitative responses and open-ended comments. Following the presentation of survey results, attendees participated in a question-and-answer session focused on the strategic planning process and the City's priorities moving forward.
The City will now use survey data, community feedback, and strategic planning discussions to finalize the FOCUS 2030 Strategic Plan. Once completed, the plan will be published and shared with the community, providing a clear roadmap for decision-making, investments, partnerships, and community priorities through 2030. The plan will also serve as a tool for measuring progress and maintaining accountability as the City works toward its long-term goals.
For more information about the City of Jasper, visit jaspercity.com.
For media inquiries, please contact Tana Collins-Allred, Director of Community and Economic Development for the City of Jasper, at 904.383.2082 or tcollins@jaspercity.com.
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