Oxford, AL – The Oxford City Council unanimously approved a resolution during its regular meeting on Feb. 10, 2026, recognizing two longtime contributors to local youth athletics and naming a ball field at Oxford Lake Park in their honor.
The resolution was passed to “recognize, honor, and express appreciation” for the contributions of Russ Baker and Coach Sal Gardner to the Oxford Baseball for Youth program. The action formally designates the field as “The Russ Baker – Sal Gardner Field.”
Gardner coached local baseball teams in Oxford for 47 years, recording multiple area championship titles or ties, several playoff appearances, and two state youth baseball championships in 1985 and 1990. Oxford Parks and Recreation previously hosted an appreciation event for Gardner on July 4, 2019, recognizing his dedication to athletics in Oxford and the surrounding area. Gardner died May 4, 2024, at age 76.
Baker, a Kentucky native, moved to Oxford in 1953 as part of a four-decade career with General Electric that brought him to the Anniston General Electric Plant. During his time in Oxford, Baker served in numerous civic roles, including as league president for Oxford Baseball for Youth. He played a key role in establishing and lighting the ball fields at Oxford Lake Park and helped develop a new Baseball for Youth playing field in 1963. Baker returned to Kentucky in the late 1960s, where he remained active in civic and church organizations and continued supporting youth sports. He died Sept. 16, 1999, at age 86.
The field naming was included on the council’s consent agenda and approved unanimously.
Additional council actions
During the Feb. 10 session, the council also issued a proclamation recognizing Career and Technical Education Month. February has been officially recognized as Career and Technical Education (CTE) Month in Oxford, Alabama, highlighting the role of CTE programs in preparing students for future careers. Oxford High School’s CTE students were recognized at a recent City Council meeting for their dedication and achievements across a variety of fields, including advanced manufacturing, cybersecurity, healthcare, information technology, energy, and transportation. Local leaders noted that CTE programs provide hands-on learning opportunities, industry-recognized credentials, and early career exploration while also helping connect education with workforce needs in the community. Officials encouraged continued support for CTE students, educators, and industry partners who contribute to workforce development and economic growth in Oxford.
Following a public hearing, council members approved Ordinance No. 2026-03, rezoning property at 419 Green Acres Road from Agricultural District (AG) to General Manufacturing District (M-2). The ordinance was approved by a 5-0 vote.
Other consent agenda items approved unanimously included:
-
Resolution No. 2026-11 declaring a six-month moratorium on issuing business licenses for enterprises whose primary business activity is a thrift store.
-
Resolution No. 2026-12 authorizing the mayor to enter into a Workplace Solutions Cooperative Acceptance Agreement with CINTAS for facility services in city buildings.
The next regular meeting of the Oxford City Council is scheduled for Feb. 24, 2026.
