Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley city leaders are joining a national push to encourage residents to take part in elections by registering to vote. At a recent council meeting, officials stressed that strong participation at the ballot box is central to democracy. Volunteers from the Baldwin County League of Women Voters will be setting up registration booths in the community this month. City leaders said they hope the events will especially reach young people who have not yet signed up to vote.

On Monday, September 15, the Foley City Council issued a proclamation recognizing Tuesday, September 16, as National Voter Registration Day. Mayor Ralph Hellmich presented the proclamation to members of the League, calling the right to vote one of the nation’s most important freedoms. He urged residents to encourage friends, neighbors, and especially first-time voters to register and learn about the process.

A second registration drive is planned for next Saturday, September 27 at Foley’s Coastal Alabama Farmers and Fishermen’s Market, where booths will be open from 8 a.m. until noon.

The League of Women Voters emphasized that it does not endorse or support candidates but instead focuses on civic engagement. “We encourage all eligible citizens to register to vote, verify their registration status, which we can do at those booths, and take an active role in our democracy,” said league member Jane Tyler.

Mayor Hellmich said efforts like these strengthen the community. “It’s to showcase that one of the most important things in our country is the ability to vote,” he told attendees at the council meeting. “It’s something that we all greatly need to support.”

As registration events continue throughout September, organizers hope the momentum carries into future elections, ensuring more voices are heard at the polls.

The League’s outreach may be modest in scale, but its message is clear: every vote adds weight to the democratic process.