Saraland Mayor Dr. Howard Reubenstein Steps Down After 24 Years
Saraland Mayor Dr. Howard Reubenstein has decided against seeking re-election this upcoming August, marking the end of his 24-year tenure—the longest in the city’s history.
A native of Chicago, Reubenstein relocated to Pensacola for his residency in the early 1980s before ultimately calling Saraland home. He first joined the city council in 1996, securing re-election in 2000, 2004, and 2008, and notably became the first council president during his initial terms.
He assumed the role of mayor in 2011 following the passing of Ken Williams and was elected in his own right in 2012, 2016, and 2020.
During his leadership, Saraland underwent significant growth, including the development of the state’s top urban school system. Notable improvements include the establishment of a 24-hour emergency clinic by Clinic Health and a $72 million sportsplex, with an uptick in hotels, retail spaces, restaurants, and other businesses.
“I want to stress that this has been a team effort,” Reubenstein stated. “Achieving political goals is difficult without collaboration. We’ve got to work together… I’m optimistic about what lies ahead for our city. So much is happening right now that’s positive. Our schools, neighborhoods, and local businesses are poised for continued growth. Saraland will remain special, I truly believe that.”
As reported by the U.S. Census, Saraland’s population soared by 23% from 2010 to 2020, placing it among Alabama’s 25 fastest-growing cities, with an estimated population of 16,435 in 2023.
Rubenstein’s last day in office will be November 3rd, and council members Wayne Biggs and Joe MacDonald have declared their intention to run for mayor.
“Looking back at Doc’s time in office, his organizational skills and time management are certainly missed,” remarked Saraland City Councilman Newton Cromer. “He has invested so much into Saraland, often prioritizing the city’s needs over his personal time. People have come to appreciate his commitment to making sound decisions.”
He shared some advice for his successor:
- “Listen to different viewpoints and show respect. If you have compelling evidence, be open to changing your stance.”
- “You have to be both a teacher and a learner.”
- “Work towards building consensus among your peers and constituents. Flexibility is essential.”
- “Serving in local government is a unique privilege and comes with great responsibility.”
- “React swiftly. Delaying responses can escalate issues.”
- “Sometimes you’ll need to communicate things that may not be what people want to hear. Honesty is crucial.”
Reflecting on his early days, Rubenstein was a medical student navigating the infamous Chicago snowstorm in 1980 that transformed his life.
“Harsh winters are part of life in Chicago,” he recounted. “But this one was truly something else.”
The relentless blizzard pounded the city for three straight days, with temperatures plunging to minus 24 degrees.
“For three weeks, I’d wake up at 3 a.m. and trudge a mile to work, following the snow-created paths of others,” he remembered. “The temperature rarely rose above zero. It felt like the wind was whispering that we needed a better life.”
After obtaining his bachelor’s and medical degrees in Chicago, he sought warmer climes and completed his residency in family medicine in Pensacola.
“I really enjoyed it here—it was just warm,” he said fondly.
In 1982, he met Tamara Johnson, a nurse, and the couple moved to Saraland in 1984, marking over 40 years of marriage.
Rubenstein established his medical practice in 1987, having been recruited to North Mobile Community Hospital in Satsuma, which led to the creation of the Saraland Medical Arts Complex.
He often recalls advice from Ray Frolich, the residency director in Pensacola: “Just doing the bare minimum isn’t sufficient. As a family doctor, becoming part of the community is vital.”
Taking this to heart, Rubenstein became involved in numerous community organizations, including the Saraland Lions Club and the Saraland Area Chamber of Commerce. He also volunteered as a team doctor for Saraland High School’s athletic teams.
Additionally, he has held the position of chairman of the Alabama Municipal Federation, the first person from Mobile County to attain that role since 1979.
