Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Nine candidates are seeking the District 1 and District 2 seats on the Brundidge City Council.

The municipal election is Tuesday, Aug. 25, with polls opening at 7 a.m.

Lynette Andres, Betty Baxter, Gerald Douglas Holland and Johnny Turvin are seeking the District 1 seat, currently held by Baxter.

Charlie Bell, Jessica Collier, Stacy Flournoy, Alexandria M. Griffin and Latisher Hall are seeking the District 2 seat, currently held by Griffin.

The candidates were invited to share information about themselves and their platforms with The Messenger. Answers from those who responded are below:

Lynette Andrews: Brundidge City Council District 1

Why are you running for this position?

To restore the city and help bring businesses to Brundidge and bring in more things for the youth to do.

What experience do you have that you think qualified you for this office?

I have been a Brundidge resident all my life. I have seen how the city has run down.

Have you held the political offices? If so, what  and when.

I have not held any political offices.

Why do you think you would be the best candidate for this office?

I feel I would be the best candidate because I am concerned with what the people of Brundidge want and I feel like I can make it happen because I am very outspoken and will speak my mind and work hard to get it done.

Tell us where you work and how long you have been there. What is your position at work?

Pathway for 12 years. Senior shift leader.

Why do you think you would be the best candidate for this office?

WhenI decided to run for a seat on the Brundidge City Council,  it wasn’t because I crave the power and glory. It’s because I am genuinely concerned with the direction I see my city going. I have lived in Brundidge all my life and Have had an inside view of how things are working and they are not working well. According to the Brundidge Police Department’s annual report, we’ve seen an 8 percent increase in violent crime and drugs are more prevalent. I watched downtown Brundidge slowly slip away. Why do we have to travel all the way to Troy and surrounding areas for simple necessary items?

In my opinion as a concerned resident of Brundidge, we should focus on three main priorities. 1. Bring public safety for our citizens —we are a family town and need to keep each other safe. 2. Promoting an environment that attracts and retains businesses, opens the town back up by allowing small businesses as well as other businesses to suit our city’s needs. 3. Revitalization- bring in activities for our youth and elderly. Brundidge should be a place where you can live, work and play.

This is not a decision I have made in haste, I talked with a lot of concerned residents and I am grateful that I have significant bi-partisan support. Anyone who knows me will tell you I don’t make promises I can’t keep, so listen to me when I tell you this: As a council member, I promise I’ll listen to your concerns and ideas. I will be the difference maker in the revitalization of my home town of Brundidge.

Tell us about your education experience, high school and college.

Pike County High School graduate 1984.

What are the best challenges facing the office you are seeking or currently hold and how would you propose to solve them?

Try to get businesses in Brundidge and bring more things for the youth to do. I will bring my ideas to the other team members and look for ways to come up with fundraisers and look for grants to help us.

What else do you want potential voters to know?

I love family time and I have two sons and a grandson that I love dearly.

Betty Baxter, District 1

Why are you running for this position?

I am running for the Brundidge City Council seat in District #1 because I love the City of Brundidge, I enjoy helping others and being a voice for the people in my community.

What experience do you have that you think qualifies you for this office?

I have been on the Council for two terms. I have experienced first hand the process of problem solving to improve the quality of life in my community and the City of Brundidge. I feel as though hands-on experience is the best teacher and that’s what qualifies me for this office.

Have you held other political office? If so, what and When?

I have only held the Brundidge City Council District 1 seat. I was first elected in 2012 and I currently serve on the Council.

Why do you think you would be the best candidate for this office?

I think I would be the best candidate for this office because I have a servant’s heart. I believe in helping others and being a voice for the people. I believe in Community Service, but serving the community with the right intentions. I feel like it’s my personal commitment to better my community and the City of Brundidge as a whole. I strive to be the change I would like to see in my community.

Tell us where you work and how long have you worked there. What is your position at work?

Before I retired, I was employed With Fruit of the Loom for 26 years and Russell Athletics for 10 years in Brundidge Alabama. Currently I am a private sitter for the elderly.

Tell us about your education experience, high school and college.

I was educated in the Enterprise city school system. I am a 1963 graduate of Coppinville High school. I also attended Enterprise Jr College for 1 year studying nursing.

What are the biggest challenges facing the office you are seeking or currently hold, and how would propose to solve them?

The biggest challenges facing the office that I’m seeking is providing a safe place for the citizens and others who may visit Brundidge. We are in need of more trained police officers to patrol the communities.

Another challenge would be to improve the appearance of the City of Brundidge. We have several dilapidated buildings and houses that need to be fixed or simply torn down. We want to clean up Brundidge to attract people and businesses into the city

Also, I would say is getting not only the youth active but also providing recreation for our adults and seniors. I feel as though we have to be active in order to remain healthy. It would be nice to see some type of recreation facility for everyone to enjoy.

What else do you want potential voters to know?

If Re-elected I will do my best to be the voice for the constituents of District #1.

I can’t make any promises, but I will do what I can to get any problems solved that any of the citizens should have.

I will work diligently with the Mayor and other Council members to make the best decisions for the City of Brundidge.

I asked that you vote for me August 25, 2020 A Servant at heart and a voice for the people.

Gerald Holland, District 1

Why are you running for this position?

I believe that sound business values should be applied to the governmental decision-making process. An open line of communication between the citizens and their elected official is crucial to good government, to reflect the needs of the people.

What experience do you have that you think qualifies you for this office?

I’ve served on various boards and committees throughout my career that required extensive decision-making skills. I have the ability to work with others.

Have you held other political office? If so, what and when?

This is my first time, but my compassion I have for the city of Brundidge is unmatched.   

Why do you think you would be the best candidate for this office?

I have served the citizens of Pike County as an educator in the public school systems. As a coach, I have experience working with a tight budget. I understand the challenges of making tough decisions, but I have the skills to listen, research, and find common ground. I strongly believe in teamwork.

Tell us where you work and how long you have worked there. What is your position at work?

I am currently employed at Pike County High School as a Physical Education Teacher. I am the head basketball coach and an assistant football coach. I am in my 23rd year of coaching and teaching.

Tell us about your education experience, high school and college.

I am a 1992 graduate of Pike County High School; a 1998 graduate of Jacksonville State Unviersity with a Bachelor of Science degree in Education, a 2010 graduate of Troy University with a Master’s Degree in Physical Education, and a 2018 graduate of Auburn University in Montgomery with an Education Specialist Degree in Physical Education.

What are the biggest challenges facing the office you are seeking or currently hold, and how would you propose to solve them?

Neighborhood revitalization and economic development are ongoing concerns for District 1. I will work to enhance the quality of life for the district by restoring housing  and encouraging small business development. Small business development will help to increase sales tax revenue, provide jobs, and promote spending within Brundidge. The needs of the constituents of District 1 are not being met. The citizens are not being heard. If elected, I will effectively address the needs of the people by employing an open-door policy. I will speak up on behalf of the citizens of District 1.

What else do you want potential voters to know?

Some of my goals as City Council of District 1 are to initiate and promote economic and neighborhood development, promote infrastructure improvement and upgrades, promote an open and transparent government, and advocate for grant opportunities and healthcare. 

Jessica Collier, District 2

Why are you running for this position?

I am a lifelong resident which has developed a great love for the City of Brundidge. I desire to be the change that I want to see in my community. I want to serve the citizens on a daily basis providing help wherever needed. We need innovation, initiative, and implementation to have our city thriving again.

What experience do you have that you think qualifies you for this office?

I currently serve on the Brundidge Planning Commission which allows me to have further insight of the detailed needs of the city. I have worked in several capacities of leadership for several years. I have also volunteered in the community with various events and always been an advocate for our youth.

Have you held other political office? If so, what and when?

No, I have not held another political office.

Why do you think you would be the best candidate for this office:

I will be responsible for what I hear & a voice for the citizens of district 2. I will also bring unique perspective, bountiful energy, and careful leadership to my hometown.

Tell us where you work and how long you have worked there. What is your position at work?

I’ve worked at Pathway, Inc. as an Administrative Assistant for almost nine years.

Tell us about your education experience, high school and college.

2005 Graduate of Pike County High School, 2011 Graduate of Virginia College – Registered Medical Assistant, and currently seeking a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Social Work

What are the biggest challenges facing the office you are seeking or currently hold, and how would you propose to solve them.

Division is a big challenge for our city. I plan to implement strategies to enhance district two such as unity within the community breaking racial and denominational barriers establishing respect, trust, and collaboration building a community mindset based on inclusion and equality.

What else do you want potential voters to know?

“Working Together we can work towards a Greater Change.” I invite each of you to view my campaign video for some of my priorities as candidate at https://youtu.be/taom4sj8eWc

Stacy Flournoy, District 2

Why are you running for this position?

I am running for the position of City Council District 2, in order to be a voice and advocate for the district as well as the city. I want to help make Brundidge a more prosperous, productive, resourceful, and exciting place to live.

What experience do you have that you think qualifies you for this office?

I managed to a program entitled REACh, when I was employed with Organized Community Action Program (OCAP). The purpose was to go into low-income homes and it show the occupants ways to lower their energy bills. I’ve managed rental property. I’ve ran a lawn service. I ran a construction and remodeling business. All in which requires using the best resources, making sound and efficient decisions, in order to receive prosperous results.

Have you held other political office? If so, what and when?

I ran for City Council in 2008, against Arthur Griffin, which I did well but didn’t win, but I haven’t held a political office.

Why do you think you would be the best candidate for this office:

I think I have the most dedication and determination to work hard to bring more business, jobs, entertainment, and anything else that would be beneficial to the city.

Tell us where you work and how long you have worked there. What is your position at work?I work at Sikorsky aircraft in Troy Alabama. I have been employed at Sikorsky for 11 years. My job title is Aircraft Electrician.

Tell us about your education experience, high school and college.

I graduated from Pike County High School. I attended college at Troy University, Enterprise State Community College, and Alabama Aviation College.

What are the biggest challenges facing the office you are seeking or currently hold, and how would you propose to solve them.

The biggest challenge facing the office that I am seeking is not exclusively for my district, but beneficial to all districts. The challenge is encouraging more businesses to come to the city. Examples are a Truck Stop, more Restaurants, a Beauty Supply Store, dry cleaners, and any business that can help allow the dollars of the citizens of Brundidge to be recirculated within Brundidge. This helps the city as well as the citizens of Brundidge. We should not have to go to neighboring cities to spend our money.  The way to combat this challenge is to present the ideas to the council, and if the majority is in agreeance, we will network and politic ways to make it happen.

What else do you want potential voters to know?

If elected, I will work hard to serve my district as well as my city.  I will do the research to make the best decisions to benefit the city, and I will be the voice and advocate for the people in District 2.

Alexandria M. Griffin, District 2

Why are you running for this position?

I m running for this position because I truly love the city of Brundidge. I’ve lived here all my life and graduated from high school here. I love our school system having attended both elementary and high school here. I am seeking office because I enjoy helping people. My father, who held this position for 27 years before his passing, always instilled in me the importance of helping others. I was raised by “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” Holding this position should be viewed as a commitment to better the city and not to gain financially or in popularity. I ask that the people consider my reason for running when they cast their vote.

What experience do you have that you think qualifies you for this position?

On December 3, 2019, I was sworn into this position. Since then, I have made with my peer for the city. For 8 months, I’ve learned a lot of new things and am still learning. This is still a learning experience for me. I feel I am qualified for this office because even though I am still learning I am aware of the current decisions being made.

Have you held other political office? If so, what and when?

This is my first time holding a political position.

Why do you think you would be the best candidate for this office?

I am the best candidate for office because I am younger. I can help bring in more ideas for this community, but for the young people also. I would like to see more added to our recreation department. I would like the parks to be more “kid-friendly.”

Tell us where you work and how long you have worked there. What is your position at work?

I currently work at the First National Bank, who is now owned by Troy Bank and Trust. I’ve worked there as a teller for a year now.

Tell us about your education experience, high school and college.

I graduated from Pike County High School, and attended Troy University for one year.

What are the biggest challenges facing the office you are seeking or currently hold, and how would you propose to solve them?

My biggest challenge in holding this position is the negative comments that we all face. Having to be careful of how we respond, things are usually taken out of context. This can be resolved if citizens will attend our meetings every 1st and 3rd Tuesdays of each month at 6:00 p.m. Citizens can learn and ask questions which would help with a lot of the confusion. With the current pandemic, we do practice social distancing.   

What else do you want potential voters to know?

There were people who gave their lives so that we could vote! Not to just vote in this municipal election, but in every other election. Voting starts at home and works its way to the top! Be that change for your city, state, and country! “Coming together is a beginning, keeping together is a progress, and working together is a success.” – Henry Ford

Latisher Pickett (Tish) Hall, District 2

Why are you running for this position?

I firmly believe that “Standing Together, We Can Make a Difference”

What experience do you have that you think qualifies you for this position?

My position as Systems Manager for the Organized Community Action Program, Inc. Head Start and all the other positions (Social Worker, Police Radio Dispatcher, Accounts Payable Clerk/Payroll Clerk, Bank Teller) I have held, has afforded me the knowledge and business experience to work cooperatively with citizens to help solve issues of this wonderful city I love.

Have you held other political office? If so, what and when?

No.

Why do you think you would be the best candidate for this office?

In my present position I have learned from over 20 years of experience how to work with a team cohesively to solve problems. I am familiar with grants, budgets, conducting surveys, writing attainable goals and analyzing the data. I am experienced in helping research ways to alleviate dilapidated structures; to help research a storm shelter, to help make suggestions on how to revive the Robert E. Barr Nutrition Center; to help encourage citizens to open the lines of communication of their concerns; to help encourage all councilpersons to display sensitivity to their constituents in times of bereavement.

Tell us where you work and how long you have worked there? What is your position at work?

I am employed with Organized Community Action Program, Inc. Head Start as the systems manager for 20 years.

Tell us about your education experience, high school and college.

I am a graduate of Pike County High School; Bachelor of Arts degree from Alabama State University, Montgomery, AL.

What are the biggest challenges facing the office you are seeking or currently hold, and how would you propose to solve them?

I pride myself on working towards obtainable goals. One of the biggest challenges of District 2 is the installation of a flashing light at the Hill Block View on Tennille Road. There is one on Academy Street in Troy. Brundidge should be able to do the same thing. Numerous citizens have voiced their concerns about the danger of this area and the potential to for serious car accidents due to the speeding. The entire citizenry of Brundidge is in need of a designated storm shelter. Let’s investigate various churches. Encourage the Robert E. Barr Nutrition Center to become a “state of the art center” by sponsoring interesting and varied activities, plays, shows, movies, historical sites, etc. The Center already has a bus at its disposal. I am well aware of the needs of our youth. I promise you, I am not dismissing their importance. However, we need to perform extensive research on how to best finance such projects of great magnitude with grants and other means of finance. These are long range investments.

What else do you want potential voters to know?

Brundidge is our community, regardless of the differences. If we bring together the young people with all their exceptional “TECHNOLOGICAL SKILLS” and “KNOWLEDGE” and the experienced citizens with their “WISDOM AND KNOWLEDGE” – “Standing Together, We Can Make a Difference.” Let’s give it a try!