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Business and Finance
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Business and Finance
Source : (remove) : First Coast News
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Who will lead Homewood? See the final candidate list for mayor, city council

Final Candidate List Revealed for Homewood Mayor and City Council Races

HOMEWOOD, Ala. – As the city of Homewood gears up for its municipal elections this fall, the final list of candidates for mayor and city council positions has been officially released, setting the stage for what promises to be a competitive and closely watched contest. Homewood, a vibrant suburb of Birmingham known for its strong schools, bustling downtown, and family-friendly atmosphere, will see voters head to the polls on August 26, 2025, to decide who will lead the city for the next four years. With issues like economic development, public safety, education funding, and infrastructure improvements at the forefront, the slate of candidates brings a mix of incumbents, newcomers, and seasoned community leaders vying for positions.

The race for mayor headlines the ballot, featuring a showdown between the current mayor and a challenger who has been vocal about the need for fresh perspectives in city hall. Incumbent Mayor Patrick McClusky, who has served two terms since first being elected in 2017, is seeking re-election on a platform emphasizing continuity and proven leadership. McClusky, a lifelong Homewood resident and former city council member, has overseen significant growth in the city's retail and residential sectors, including the redevelopment of the Edgewood Village area and expansions to the Homewood Parks system. "I've dedicated my career to making Homewood a place where families thrive and businesses flourish," McClusky said in a recent statement. "We've balanced budgets, improved public services, and navigated challenges like the post-pandemic recovery. I'm running to build on that foundation."

Challenging McClusky is Sarah Jennings, a local business owner and community activist who has gained traction with her grassroots campaign. Jennings, who owns a popular coffee shop in downtown Homewood, entered the race citing concerns over rising property taxes and what she describes as insufficient attention to affordable housing. A graduate of Homewood High School and the University of Alabama at Birmingham, Jennings has been involved in various civic organizations, including the Homewood Chamber of Commerce and the local PTA. Her platform focuses on sustainable growth, enhancing green spaces, and bolstering support for small businesses. "Homewood is at a crossroads," Jennings told supporters at a recent town hall. "We need innovative ideas to address traffic congestion, school overcrowding, and ensuring our city remains accessible to all residents, not just the affluent." Polls suggest the mayoral race could be tight, with McClusky holding a slight edge among older voters, while Jennings appeals to younger families and entrepreneurs.

Moving to the city council races, Homewood's council consists of 10 members, with five at-large seats and five representing specific wards. This structure allows for broad representation, and this year's candidates reflect a diverse array of backgrounds, from educators and lawyers to retirees and tech professionals. Starting with the at-large positions, which are open to all qualified residents, the field is particularly crowded.

For At-Large Place 1, incumbent Councilor Barry Crumpton is running unopposed, a testament to his longstanding popularity. Crumpton, a retired engineer who has served on the council since 2009, has been instrumental in infrastructure projects like the widening of Lakeshore Drive and upgrades to the city's stormwater management system. His unchallenged bid allows him to focus on ongoing initiatives without the distraction of a campaign.

In At-Large Place 2, the race pits incumbent Jennifer Andress against newcomer Marcus Hale. Andress, a real estate agent and mother of three, has championed education and youth programs during her first term, including partnerships with Homewood City Schools to expand after-school activities. Hale, a software developer and recent transplant from Atlanta, is campaigning on a tech-forward agenda, proposing smart city initiatives like improved broadband access and data-driven traffic solutions. "Homewood has so much potential in the digital age," Hale said. "We can use technology to make our city more efficient and connected."

At-Large Place 3 features a three-way contest between incumbent Alex Wyatt, community organizer Lisa Ramirez, and businessman Tom Fletcher. Wyatt, a lawyer with deep roots in Homewood, has focused on public safety, advocating for increased funding for the police and fire departments. Ramirez, who leads a local nonprofit aiding low-income families, emphasizes social equity, pushing for more inclusive zoning laws and mental health resources. Fletcher, owner of a chain of local gyms, brings a business perspective, stressing economic incentives to attract new employers. This race has already seen spirited debates, with candidates clashing over how to balance growth with preserving Homewood's small-town charm.

For At-Large Place 4, incumbent Britt Thames faces off against educator Elena Vasquez. Thames, a former teacher himself, has been a vocal advocate for parks and recreation, leading the charge on the new community center project. Vasquez, a high school principal in the Homewood system, argues for greater investment in education infrastructure, citing overcrowded classrooms as a pressing issue. "Our schools are the heart of Homewood," Vasquez stated. "We need council members who prioritize funding and innovation in education."

Rounding out the at-large seats, Place 5 sees incumbent Councilor Randall Woodfin challenged by activist Jordan Lee. Woodfin, not to be confused with Birmingham's mayor of the same name, is a financial advisor who has worked on budget transparency and fiscal responsibility. Lee, a young environmental advocate, is pushing for green initiatives like expanding recycling programs and promoting electric vehicle infrastructure.

Shifting to the ward-specific races, these positions represent distinct geographic areas of Homewood, ensuring localized concerns are addressed.

In Ward 1, which covers much of the downtown and Edgewood areas, incumbent Susan Greene is seeking re-election against challenger Mike Donovan. Greene, a small business owner, has focused on revitalizing commercial districts and supporting local arts. Donovan, a retired police officer, emphasizes crime prevention and neighborhood safety.

Ward 2, encompassing residential neighborhoods near Samford University, features incumbent Chris Lane running against Laura Mitchell. Lane, an architect, has advocated for historic preservation and smart urban planning. Mitchell, a nurse, highlights healthcare access and community wellness programs.

For Ward 3, which includes parts of the Hollywood and Rosedale areas, newcomer candidates dominate: Teacher David Ellis versus attorney Rebecca Sloan. Ellis campaigns on education reform, while Sloan focuses on legal aid and community justice.

Ward 4, covering the West Homewood region, sees incumbent Tonya Chesney challenged by entrepreneur Kevin Patel. Chesney has prioritized infrastructure like road repairs, while Patel pushes for business incubation and job creation.

Finally, Ward 5, which includes the Green Springs Highway corridor, has incumbent Mark Ballard facing off against environmental consultant Anna Kim. Ballard has worked on transportation improvements, and Kim advocates for sustainable development and pollution reduction.

Beyond the individual races, several overarching themes are emerging in this election cycle. Homewood's rapid growth, fueled by its proximity to Birmingham and appeal as a desirable suburb, has led to debates over managing development without straining resources. Candidates across the board are addressing traffic issues, with proposals ranging from new bike lanes to expanded public transit options. Public safety remains a top priority, especially in light of regional crime trends, though Homewood boasts relatively low rates compared to neighboring areas.

Education is another hot-button issue, as Homewood City Schools consistently rank among Alabama's best, but funding challenges persist. Many candidates are pledging to lobby for state support and explore local revenue streams. Affordable housing has also gained prominence, with challengers like Jennings and Ramirez arguing that rising home prices are pricing out longtime residents.

Voter turnout is expected to be high, given the city's engaged populace. Homewood has a population of about 25,000, with a median household income well above the state average, contributing to a politically active community. Early voting begins in July, and absentee ballots are available for those unable to vote in person.

As the campaigns heat up, forums and debates are scheduled throughout the summer, providing opportunities for residents to hear directly from the candidates. Organizations like the Homewood League of Women Voters are hosting events to inform the public. With such a diverse field, the outcomes could shape Homewood's trajectory for years to come, influencing everything from daily commutes to long-term economic strategies.

In a city that prides itself on community spirit, this election underscores the importance of local governance. Whether voters opt for experience or change, the final candidate list ensures a robust dialogue on Homewood's future. Residents are encouraged to research the candidates, attend events, and make their voices heard at the ballot box. (Word count: 1,248)

Read the Full al.com Article at:
[ https://www.al.com/news/2025/07/who-will-lead-homewood-see-the-final-candidate-list-for-mayor-city-council.html ]