Longtime Decatur City Councilman Billy Jackson has officially kicked off his campaign for mayor, joining a growing field ahead of the local elections in August 2025.

Having represented District 1 since 1996, Jackson is the longest-serving member of the Decatur City Council. He’s a Decatur native, graduated from Austin High School and Alabama A&M University.

Jackson believes his extensive experience on the council has given him crucial insights into the city’s challenges and the workings of local government. He feels prepared to take on the responsibilities of mayor with confidence.

Jackson’s campaign priorities include enhancing infrastructure, addressing homelessness, expanding mental health services, and promoting economic growth. Additionally, he emphasized the need to restore transparency and accountability in city government, stating that his immediate focus would be to set clear expectations for leaders in each department.

He mentioned in an interview that he has contemplated running for mayor for several years now, but recent events have prompted him to act. He expressed his worries about a perceived lack of leadership and transparency in the current administration, suggesting these issues have led to a disconnect with the community.

His bid for mayor comes after incumbent Mayor Tab Bowling announced he would not seek reelection. Bowling, who first took office in 2016 and was reelected in 2020, made his decision public in October 2023.

Other candidates in the race for mayor include Planning Committee Chairman Kent Lawrence, Personnel Committee member Susie Wiley, and former City Council member Butch Matthews. Initially, businessman Justin Weil had declared his intent to run but recently withdrew, citing his belief in Jackson’s leadership potential.

Decatur voters will head to the polls on Tuesday, August 26, 2025, to choose their next mayor.