A Reader Expresses Her Unhappiness with Muscle Shoals

As Muscle Shoals, AL, nears the 2025 municipal election, I’m speaking as a newcomer to address a documented pattern of favoritism and exclusion that’s too often ignored. Who will step up to fix this and make our community truly inclusive?

My family relocated here for military work at Lockheed Martin, sacrificing closeness to loved ones. Like many new families, especially with children of different ages, we’ve struggled to integrate. We’ve had to prove ourselves repeatedly to join community activities, which is exhausting when you’re just learning local basics like restaurants or school programs. Information about these opportunities is often shared selectively, leaving newcomers feeling left out. A town welcome package and clear school activity guides would help bridge this gap.

We’ve seen favoritism firsthand—a pattern many locals quietly recognize. I have documented evidence of these issues, which I’m willing to share privately with leadership to avoid public conflict. I believe local leaders are unaware due to the demands of managing a growing town. When informed, they’ve handled matters professionally, allowing us to move forward together. Yet, these challenges persisted across multiple settings due to our children’s varied ages.

I want to praise McBride Elementary’s exceptional leadership and staff, who made us feel included from the start. I also give a shoutout to the coaches and leaders of my daughter’s recreational activities—their efforts transformed her life, and I’m deeply grateful. Muscle Shoals is growing, and I see the positive changes, but more work is needed.

I speak for those who feel unheard. Many newcomers share stories of exclusion, and I’ve felt their pain. People hesitate to approach leadership, perhaps fearing dismissal, but I believe leaders want to help. This pattern isn’t just a rumor—it’s documented and needs addressing. For example, interactions with figures like Heather Wright at the Shoals Chamber of Commerce, whose attitude toward community members has felt dismissive, show a disconnect that doesn’t serve the people. We need leaders who listen and act, not dismiss concerns.

Who among the 2025 candidates—for mayor or city council—will take responsibility to end this cycle? We need leadership that fosters unity, making every family, especially newcomers, feel like part of Muscle Shoals’ family, regardless of differing views. I’m not here for drama but because I care about this town and its people. I’ve seen proof of these issues, and they’re real. Candidates, who will step up to ensure every voice is heard and our community thrives as one? 

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The above is from a reader. We can tell her it won't be Mike Lockhart or his second in command or most on the council to make newcomers feel accepted. They've got theirs and are looking for more. Sc**w you...