MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WHNT) -- Communities across Alabama saw some competitive races for mayor and other offices this year. With fewer people at the polls, state leaders say outreach should remain a focus in future elections.

"It was disappointing, honestly," said Kathy Jones, director of the League of Women Voters of Alabama Education Fund.

For Jones, that disappointment came with a dismal voter turnout in some cities. Birmingham saw a 22.08% voter turnout. In the City of Madison, 17.76% of registered voters hit the ballot box.

Jones said bringing early voting to the state could help those stats.

"We gotta figure out 'how do we connect people to the issues,' and understanding why, for example, local elections are absolutely critical," she said.

Paul DeMarco, former state representative,

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