Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan has built her leadership around a simple but powerful idea: protecting and preserving what makes Fairhope special while preparing it for the future.

Elected in 2020, Sullivan’s work has been defined by a balance of growth and preservation, ensuring that Fairhope remains both a destination and a beloved hometown.

Her leadership reflects the steady hand of someone who knows the community deeply and has spent her career building relationships that strengthen the city.

A career of service

Sullivan’s career has long been rooted in service to her hometown. Before stepping into elected office, she worked for years in city administration and community development, overseeing projects that enhanced public spaces, supported recreation, and improved quality of life for Fairhope residents.

That experience gave her a ground-level view of what it takes to make a city thrive—and prepared her to take on the broader responsibilities of mayor

Sullivan is known for her approachable leadership style, listening carefully, seeking consensus, and making decisions with both short-term needs and long-term goals in mind.

This combination of pragmatism and vision has helped her guide Fairhope through growth while maintaining the small-town character that residents value.

Infrastructure and recreation

From the beginning of her administration, Sullivan has placed a strong emphasis on infrastructure and recreation. Roads and drainage systems have been upgraded across the city, addressing long-standing concerns about flooding and traffic flow.

These improvements not only strengthen neighborhoods but also ensure Fairhope is equipped to handle steady population growth.

She has also championed recreational opportunities, from new facilities at the soccer complex to expanded youth programs.

“We want to give our children and families places to gather, play, and create memories right here in Fairhope,” Sullivan has often said, underscoring her commitment to both quality of life and community connection.

Public safety

Beyond infrastructure and recreation, Sullivan has made public safety a cornerstone of her leadership.

The city has opened a temporary police precinct on Highway 98, secured land for a new fire station on Highway 181, and added new fire trucks to the fleet.

She emphasized that these investments reflect Fairhope’s commitment to protecting its residents and supporting first responders.

“In the last five years, we have strengthened our police and fire services by opening a temporary precinct on Highway 98, securing land for a new fire station on Highway 181, and adding new fire trucks to our fleet,” she said.

“Public safety is the most important part of what government should do, and I am proud of our Police Department and our Fire Department for how they serve and protect our wonderful City.”

Economic development

In addition to strengthening core services, Sullivan has focused on building a thriving local economy.

Fairhope has welcomed new businesses downtown, supported small business growth, and expanded opportunities for both residents and visitors. Her administration has worked closely with developers and business owners to keep Fairhope’s economy vibrant while preserving the charm that draws so many people to Baldwin County.

This balance of progress and preservation has become a defining theme of her tenure.

Economic development in Fairhope is not just about recruiting new businesses—it is also about supporting the existing ones.

Sullivan has highlighted the importance of partnerships with shop owners, restaurants, and local entrepreneurs who create the unique character that defines the city’s downtown.

By cultivating a healthy business climate, she is ensuring Fairhope remains both economically strong and culturally distinctive.

Community programs and quality of life

Sullivan has also emphasized initiatives that enhance quality of life and strengthen Fairhope’s sense of community.

From expanding recreational offerings to supporting local arts and cultural events, she has worked to create a city that residents are proud to call home.

She believes these investments go beyond amenities—they build community pride. “Fairhope is more than a city,” Sullivan has said. “It’s a family.

When we support our neighborhoods, our schools, our churches, and our community spaces, we make this a better place for everyone.”

Her focus on community extends to building strong partnerships with schools, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations. She has made it a priority to work hand-in-hand with local leaders, recognizing that collaboration is the key to long-term success.

Whether through volunteerism, youth sports, or cultural programs, Sullivan has encouraged every sector of the community to play a role in shaping Fairhope’s future.

Leadership beyond Fairhope

Sullivan’s leadership has also reached beyond the city’s borders.

She is active in the Alabama League of Municipalities, where she collaborates with mayors from across the state to share best practices and advocate for policies that strengthen local government.

In 2025, she was elected president of the League, giving her a larger platform to represent Fairhope and ensure the concerns of Baldwin County are heard in Montgomery.

In this statewide role, Sullivan brings the same energy and focus she applies in Fairhope—working to strengthen local government through collaboration and practical solutions.

A vision for the future

Looking ahead, Sullivan continues to focus on long-term planning that will guide Fairhope through growth without losing its identity.

With projects underway in infrastructure, safety, and recreation, she is shaping a city prepared to meet the needs of the future while staying true to its heritage.

Her love for Fairhope is evident in every initiative she champions.

From protecting residents’ safety to ensuring economic vitality and nurturing community spirit, Sullivan’s leadership reflects her deep commitment to the people she serves.
For Sullivan, the work is personal: “Fairhope has given me so much, and I want to make sure it remains the place we all love for generations to come.”

Yellowhammer News is proud to honor Sherry Sullivan as a 2025 Woman of Impact, recognizing her dedication to public service, her vision for Fairhope, and her commitment to strengthening Alabama’s communities.