Upcoming Election Year for Cities

This summer marks a significant election year for numerous cities across the state, with mayoral and city council races set for August 26th.

Mark Race is a candidate for Mobile Mayor, stepping into the spotlight after Mayor Sandy Stimpson’s retirement. Stimpson has been recognized as one of Mobile’s most effective mayors during his three terms and has actively supported Spiro Cheriogotis as his successor, even contributing to his campaign. Cheriogotis has garnered substantial backing from the local business community, attracting more campaign funds than all other candidates combined. In a contest with County Commissioners Connie Hudson and Barbara Drummond, it appears either Hudson or Cheriogotis may secure the leak location deal.

In Hoover, the mayoral race is heating up, with incumbent Frank Brokert facing a challenge from Nick Delzis, a veteran police chief. The competition here is expected to be tight.

In Opelika, Eddie Smith appears to be the likely choice for mayor following the retirement of long-serving mayor Gary Fuller, who was well-regarded in Lee County. Smith, a retired banker and former city council president, has enjoyed support from the local business community and has worked closely with Fuller over many years.

Meanwhile, Tracy Honair, the well-respected mayor of Albertville, is poised to serve an unprecedented fourth term, thanks to a strong partnership with the city council that has fostered growth in Sand Mountain City.

In Wetumpka, Jerry Willis, the beloved longtime mayor, is expected to be re-elected, even against some opposition.

Decatur’s mayor, Tad Bowling, has announced his retirement, setting the stage for an interesting competition, with insiders suggesting Kent Lawrence could be a strong contender.

Over in Trussville, the mayoral contest is expected to be between Risabright and JT Smallwood, as the city continues to grow.

In Vestavia Hills, Ashley Curry faces only token opposition in his re-election campaign, indicating a strong hold on his position.

Mountain Brook recently saw a change in leadership with City Council member Graham Smith stepping into the role of mayor, facing no opponents.

The city of Homewood is experiencing an open race for mayor, with Jennifer Andres, a popular council member and cross-country runner, looking to become the first female mayor in this affluent area.

In Enterprise, Mayor Bill Cooper is seeking re-election and is expected to maintain his position, having helped the city thrive over recent years, including facing off against a familiar opponent from four years back.

The mayoral race in Ozark is particularly noteworthy, as incumbent Mark Blankenship faces police chief Charles Ward, a respected figure and local hero in law enforcement.

Pike Road’s Mayor Gordon Stone has become quite well-known in his community as a strong leader, overseeing significant growth since his mayorship began in 2004 when the population was just 350. Despite having a challenger this time around, he is favored to win.

Eddie Lowe, the popular mayor of Phoenix City, is running unopposed for his fourth term, showing his solid footing in that area.

In Aniston, a new mayor will soon be elected, as current Mayor Stephen Fawkes has, in essence, managed the city for the last six years.

Troy’s Mayor Jason Reeves is set to secure his fifth consecutive term without opposition.

Earl Johnson, mayor of Andalusia, is vying for a sixth term, having served well in his previous five terms.

Dothan’s Mayor Mark Saliba was recently re-elected by a considerable margin, making him a standout figure as he becomes only the second mayor in the city’s history to serve three consecutive terms.

Additionally, two of the state’s most popular mayors—Tommy Battle of Huntsville and Walt Maddox of Tuscaloosa—have each been re-elected without opposition over the past year.

As the elections approach, be sure to make your voice heard; local mayoral votes carry significant weight in shaping your community.