Anniston City Council candidates lay out visions at Thursday forum

Yahoo

2 days ago

ANNISTON — Ten candidates for Anniston City Council seats took the stage Thursday at 5:30 p.m. at the Anniston City Meeting Center to make their case to voters ahead of the city's Aug. 26 municipal election.
The forum had been organized by the Calhoun County Area Chamber & Visitors Center and was moderated by Jakob Williamson, the chamber's public affairs director.
'Thank you to everyone watching online as well for taking the time to review the candidates vying for your votes,' Williamson said, addressing a crowd of around 250. 'We want to thank the Anniston City Meeting Center for hosting us tonight and thank the Chamber of Public Affairs Committee for organizing this event on behalf of the voting constituents of the city of Anniston.'
Ward 1 Candidates
Brenton Tolson framed his campaign around the idea of "political maturity," emphasizing community empowerment and reeducation. He called for Annistonians to gain control over their political processes, stressing the importance of local business development and early youth mentorship.
"As your councilman, I will establish a political program of re-educating our community and to open our community's eyes," he said. Tolson also focused on the need for employment and educational reform to combat poverty and guide youth toward shaping the city's future.
Lewis Downing, the incumbent councilman, leaned on his deep ties to Ward 1 and the city's history, pointing to his family's long-standing downtown business and his own upbringing on East 10th Street.
'There's a vibrancy here now that we haven't felt in decades,' Downing said, highlighting the city's potential for industry, commerce and growth at McClellan. He pledged continued investment in infrastructure and a stronger municipal airport, with a promise to 'always stand up for this community that we all love.'
Ben New emphasized his record of volunteer service and city planning experience.
'We developed a comprehensive plan and rewrote the entire zoning ordinance,' New said. He positioned himself as a pro-business candidate with a focus on controlled growth, citing the city's rising operational budget. 'The city is growing. If you want someone who can grow the ward, grow the city, you want to elect me.'
John Squires laid out four main priorities: free trash pickup, stronger education accountability, job creation and ending food deserts, that is, the lack of a neighborhood store for general groceries. Drawing from experience working for the Department of Labor, he expressed frustration at economic development not translating into jobs.
'We had over $54 million worth of construction, but how many jobs?' he asked. Squires also vowed to bring a grocery store to west Anniston to address long-standing food access issues.
Ward 2 Candidates
Dann Huguley, a pastor and lifelong Anniston resident, pledged to bring transparency and fiscal responsibility to City Hall. He criticized the lack of follow-through on earmarked funds, such as the beer tax for education. 'Too often, our tax dollars have not served the purpose they were intended for,' Huguley said. He also emphasized housing revitalization and economic incentives for small business development.
Demetric 'DD' Roberts, the incumbent, pointed to his hands-on record in the community and ongoing projects.
'You may have seen me out picking up trash with our Anniston Changers,' he said. Roberts said safety and infrastructure are top concerns, as is more street lighting and surveillance to deter illegal dumping. He noted progress on waste collection, food access, and attracting businesses, pledging to remain the 'boots on the ground' candidate.
La Sha' Robinson, a business owner and zoning committee member, said she would bring a community-first mindset to City Hall.
'I'm committed to listening to your concerns and working tirelessly to address issues that matter most,' she said. Robinson advocated for clarity in zoning policies, more community gardens, and increased access to educational and hygiene resources through nonprofit work.
Erica Tolson focused on direct service and accountability, calling for city-funded trash pickup, mosquito control, and street lighting. 'We need to do something about our city,' she said. Tolson expressed strong interest in school partnerships and pledged to collaborate closely with residents. 'I want you to ride my back. I want you to tell me what I'm doing wrong,' she said.
Ward 4 Candidates
Ashley Wilson, a teacher, said she is running on a platform of public safety, infrastructure repair, and economic growth.
'I will show up, and I will work so hard for the people of Ward 4,' she said. Wilson emphasized her commitment to education and open communication with constituents, promising regular updates and two-way dialogue. 'I will take your questions, even the hard ones, and work to get answers.'
Julie Moss has a background in marketing and development, outlined a platform based on transparency, neighborhood support, and smart growth.
'Let's cut the red tape, simplify procedures and improve communication,' she said. Moss said she would focus on revitalizing city departments, improving partnerships with hospitals and schools, and attracting long-term investment through stronger leadership and planning.
The municipal election will be held Tuesday, Aug. 26. Voters will choose council members from Wards 1, 2 and 4, as well as the city's next mayor.