2025 Jackson Election Guide

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: I am the only candidate who possesses direct experience with running the City of Jackson. I have worked diligently and tirelessly over the years to unpack and address the protracted issues facing our City. I have a keen understanding of our condition and have worked to establish and enact the vision to move our City forward beyond issues that have plagued us for decades. I am committed to seeing that vision through.
More importantly, I possess a lifelong commitment to community advocacy which is not only demonstrated in my devotion to community projects over the years, but also my dedication to representing people in social justice cases in my career as an attorney.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A: I will continue to foster comprehensive public safety measures by not only supporting the Jackson Police Department with 21st Century tools to assist them with accomplishing their jobs, but I will continue to engage community through the Office of Violence Prevention and Trauma Recovery to get to the root causes of what is leading to harm within our communities.

Secondly, I will work with local and international businesses to foster the development we’ve been seeking in our community so we can continue to see historic funding to uplift Jackson and witness investment in our City. I will continue to work to build a revolving loan fund that fills the gap funding necessary to fulfill the vision of the economic development we have identified through market studies to leverage the economic growth of our City.

Lastly, I will continue to identify and build dedicated streams of funding to tackle our decades-long infrastructure issues. I have proven that we are capable of doing this because we’ve been able to fund and complete more infrastructure projects than the previous thirty years prior our administration combined. We did the first 1% sales tax leverage in our State’s history to jumpstart road and bridge projects throughout the City. We received $800 million dollars in direct funding from the federal government through an omnibus bill which was the most in US history. We were able to amplify our water issue to an international audience to achieve this landmark funding victory. I have also begun the process of leveraging our internet sales tax to address flood mitigation projects that have plagued our communities for generations.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I will always seek opportunities to build relationships that support both the City of Jackson and State of Mississippi. I believe that there is a fundamental difference between being a diplomat and a doormat. We were able to avoid the state takeover of our public school system in the first year of our administration which led to our district improving two letter grades in their rating and our superintendent receiving award-winning acclaim as one of the best superintendents in the nation. However, when sincere opportunities for cooperation are not present, I will zealously defend the interests and investments made by the City of Jackson even when I am threatened as the result of this fierce advocacy of our City.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I respect the position of the city council and the role the members are elected to hold. When functioning effectively, city council members should be advocates for the issues and liaisons for the communities they represent and should work with the administration to identify creative solutions to these problems. While we always seek to build consensus in serving our City, we must never work in opposition to the financial and quality of life interests of the residents of Jackson. I will continue to seek operational unity with the city council for the benefit of Jackson and its residents.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: I disagree with any sentiment that suggests that Jackson is on the wrong path. Rather, I assert that Jackson is pushing through decades of issues of declining infrastructure and divestment. Our administration has been working with community and engaging new partnerships to locate resources to address these longstanding and deep-seated challenges. While there is plenty to accomplish for Jackson to reach its full potential and deserved destiny, we would not have been able to see

1. three consecutive years of a reduction in crime,
2. historic investment in our infrastructure,
3. and tangible examples of how economic investment can succeed in Jackson (i.e. Belhaven, Fondren, downtown)

if we were not making valiant strides in the right direction.

We are also identifying creative solutions to jumpstart investment in communities that have been hit hardest by the divestment that Jackson has experienced over time. We’ve cleared a path and we are making strides in the right direction.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Of the many accomplishments we’ve achieved in office, we are most proud of supporting our school district in wresting autonomy and avoiding state takeover. We are also heartened to have recovered historic funds to end decades of water insecurity for our residents. It has been promising to realize this goals. I am always energized by having the trust and opportunity to address the various quality of life challenges that our residents reach out about every day. My aim is to empower our residents to become decision makers with respect to the issues that impact their everyday lives so that we ultimately democratize power and create a functioning economy that’s most notably judged by the dignity it creates for all.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I enjoy supporting businesses and community projects across our City. From the locally-owned restaurants I visit with my family to the campus of Jackson State University for events and Veterans Memorial stadium for games to our various museums and cultural centers, I love every corner of this City.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Although my parents were not born here, they made a life for us in Jackson. They are buried here and their work in this City will always represent the best of who we are to me. I also continue to be inspired by the legacies of Medgar and Myrlie Evers, Richard Wright, Margaret Walker, and Eudora Welty. Their contributions are a point of pride for our City and humanity at large. I’ve also been influenced by the advocacy and dedication of my neighbors, friends, and teachers. Teachers like Mrs. Barbara Stevens and Dr. Sophia Marshall literally changed my life. My favorite Jacksonians by far, however, are my beautiful and brilliant wife, Dr. Ebony Lumumba, and bright and adorable daughters, Alaké and Nubia.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: I have a passion for my city and would enjoy to have my ideas used to make us better and stronger!

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A:

1. I would make the city more safer with more lighting solar lighting throughout Jackson.
2. Bring new plans to fight blight and rebuild neighborhoods.
3. I would like to create 5 more mini police precinct.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Fight for the airport because it belongs to the city of Jackson. Its common knowledge that the airport is in Rankin County but we own it free and clear. This ongoing Fight needs to be resolved.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I would like to work close with the council and would be a leader in bringing more city services to downtown and change over to a four day work week in January 2026.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: We need to take a stand and reclaim our city. I would be willing to hold meetings and work with the community to cleanup our city.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I recently did a story with WLBT. We have discarded tires in Northwest Jackson near the Veterans Home. I contacted WLBT on Monday and meet with them on Tuesday. The story aired the same night. The city said we would have someone there before Friday. They actually came Wednesday and removed everything. We did a follow up on Friday.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

Mostly in my community of Ward 5 and some in Ward 2 were my mom works on Watkins Drive.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: I like a majority of the local radio and television personalities in Jackson. I constantly send news tips about events in Jackson. They’re sometimes Positive and rarely Negative.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: As a 2 term mayor, 27yr veteran contractor, 30yr businessman and a citizen who has helped the children, homeless and elderly in this city for years would give the citizens of Jackson a passionate proven and humble servant to be their next leader. Being a mayor of a small town taught me the rules and regulations of municipalities and how to be a passionate public servant

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A: I will actually give you double, six…

1. Crime – We must restore Law & Order back in our city. We do that by creating structure, instruction and discipline. Police presence and response time is a major issue. Every local law enforcement agency should have total jurisdiction over this entire city until we decrease the crime. The Judges must get on the same page with law enforcement. We must also put emphasis on the rehabilitation side. We gotta get the guns out of our young people’s hands and replace with tools and knowledge.
2. Beautification – We MUST clean our city up and illuminate it! Power washing viaducts and bridges, picking up trash, cleaning illegal dumping sites, cleaning out ditches and creeks, changing the lighting and illuminating our skyline, we must send a message that “Jackson is opened for business.”
3. Infrastructure – We must continue to replace our infrastructure but we must also have a mayor who understands that routine maintenance such as cleaning ditches and creeks, tree Trimming, servicing our water and Wastewater plants and proving the proper asphalt maintenance on our streets play a very important role in preserving what we have until we can enhance or revitalize what we have.
4. Economic Development – We must identify the golden nuggets in our city(such as the zoo, JSU stadium, etc), strategically move then where they would have a huge economic impact and provide an economic boost to the city.
5. Business Development – Jackson is 80% African-American and the city has a 400 plus million budget. African-Americans get less than 5% of the city’s opportunities, LOCALS (Black and white) get less than 20%. We will never grow this city if we continue to allow all of our revenues to go to out of town companies.
6. Leisure & Entertainment – The Zoo has got to be moved to a place in the city where it would attract all Mississippians. JSU stadium needs to go to the Metrocenter where it would turn Hwy 80 corridor into Hollywood Blvd and a massive development like that would increase the property value of West and South Jackson tremendously. Jackson needs a state of art Aquarium and it needs several other sources of Leisure and entertainment to attract visitors and encourage Jacksonians to continue to reside here.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I personally think all the takeovers and takeover attempts has to do with relationships and personal agendas. Each level of government has to respect what each brings to the table, a Mayor has to understand that his/her municipality is only as good as his relationship with its delegation and last, there won’t be any change until everyone puts Jackson first.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: This is where my experience as a former mayor will be an advantage. The mayor is the CEO of the city. He runs the day to day operation of the city. The Council is the Legislative branch. They approves or disapproves what the mayor brings forth but a good mayor respects his council. He communicates and have work sessions to get their input about things that are important to the constituents in his/her ward. They should be able to agree to disagree in private but come on the same page publicly.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Not a “Black” Jackson, not a “White” Jackson but a “One” Jackson

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Mentoring boys in the community to young men, Putting all 3 of my children through college, creating a AAU team and helping 17 young men to get college scholarships, building a elderly lady’s home back out of my pocket who fostered 32 children in the inner city, providing over 200 jobs through my construction company for citizens of Jackson, giving back to several Fraternities, Sororities, Churches and Civic Organizations in this city

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Church, in the community and supporting local businesses and events

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: William Winter
Harvey Johnson Jr.
Jerry Owens
Thad Bridges
Lois Flaggs
Just to name a few. There are several others who I saw growing up do everything they could to make this city a better place.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: I have put my heart into Jackson, and I have spent decades helping to build the community. I have seen and experienced the consequences of poor leadership and terrible infrastructural decisions that allow Jackson’s issues to persist year after year, decade after decade. I have always believed, and will continue to believe, in the potential of Jackson because I know with my leadership, we can open Jackson up for business and show the rest of the State our worth.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A:

1. Improve Jackson’s Infrastructure:

Jackson’s aging infrastructure hampers our city’s ability to attract corporate investors and new residents. Investing in Jackson’s infrastructure will create jobs, enhance our roads and bridges, support businesses, boost our city’s economy and increase our population growth. As Mayor, there will be no excuses – I will stop wasteful spending and use resources more efficiently. We will use what we got to fix what we have and get what we need.

• We will more efficiently use Jackson’s 1% tax to enhance Jackson’s roads and bridges.
• We will optimize city revenue to repair and restore Jackson’s infrastructure.
• We will promote research and development of new materials, technologies, and processes to modernize and extend the lifespan of infrastructure, accelerate repairs or replacements, and achieve cost-effective solutions.
• We will hold all property owners accountable for their properties.

2. Reduce Crime:

Reducing crime in Jackson is essential for the safety and well-being of our community. A
safer city fosters a sense of security and encourages economic growth and development.
By implementing effective crime prevention strategies, I will create an environment where
families feel safe, and businesses can thrive. I plan to collaborate with other law
enforcement agencies (Capitol Police, Hinds County Sheriff’s Department, University
Police, Hospital Police, etc.), community organizations, and, most importantly, the citizens
of Jackson. This collaboration will be key to addressing the root causes of crime because I
know together we can build a stronger, more secure Jackson for all residents.

• We will change the climate and culture of Jackson, starting with my own City of Jackson police force. Any type of crime will not be tolerated, ignored, or justified, criminals will be sought after, arrested and face the maximum legal penalties available under the law for their actions.
• We will implement technology including upgrading/adding more high-definition security cameras, security drones, and develop an efficient call/monitoring management system.
• We will increase police presence in high-crime areas which will also decrease response time.
• We will reduce crime, especially loss of life crimes. Whereby, removing the atmosphere of fear related to Jackson and make Jackson a safe place to live, to work, and to entertain.

3. Bring Economic Development:

Bringing a 21st-century economy to Jackson is essential for our city’s future prosperity.
We will ensure that all residents benefit from new opportunities by fostering an
environment that supports innovation and growth.

• We will renovate, update and market Jackson’s tourist attractions including, but not limited to, Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport (attract more airlines/flights), Jackson Convention Complex, Russell C. Davis Planetarium, Thalia Mara Hall, and the Jackson Zoo (relocate).
• We will entice new corporations to Jackson, encourage current businesses to stay in
  Jackson, assist residents in creating new businesses, while partnering with other city, state, and federal officials in Jackson’s growth.
• We will develop Farish Street and Downtown Pearl River Basin into top tourist attractions.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Jacksonians are the ones directly impacted by the generationally weak infrastructure that characterizes the city. Due to this, it is Jacksonians themselves who have the highest potential and strongest ambitions to fix these issues. My campaign is built on the idea of empowering Jackson from the inside out, and through this, I believe a strong, locally controlled government will be the backbone of making Jackson thrive. I plan to use this view to respond to these issues that may otherwise warrant state intervention.

As mayor, I will take a proactive approach to governance by addressing the root cause of these actions – ineffective leadership and procedural oversight. I will leverage partnerships with local, state, and federal leaders and agencies to promote collaborative solutions that resolve past mismanagement issues, but not replace our local leadership/ownership. This involves my plans to spearhead the implementation of accountability mechanisms, so the citizens of Jackson and all stakeholders can hold us accountable for achieving positive results in managing these facilities and institutions.

My priority is to regain the confidence of our citizens first, then state and federal lawmakers regain full control of our water system to public schools, the airport, historic Smith-Wills stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts, so like other Mississippi cities, we never have to face state control in the first place.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: Currently, I work with both the current mayor and city council in managing and implementing a CDBG-funded program for at-risk youth and senior citizens at Genesis and Light Center. This service-related relationship has gone on for well over the last 4 to 5 years. I have also worked with both the mayor and city council on community development projects, economic development projects, and crime awareness, all of which were free of issues. As mayor, we will continue to collaborate, compromise, and contribute to the betterment of the City of Jackson.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: My efforts were not done alone, they were by the grace of God and recruiting a great team of staff and volunteers, and by developing partnerships and collaborations with city, state and federal stakeholders. My overall goal is to help make Jackson, MS, look like, feel like, and operate like the great capital of Mississippi that we know it can be. Under my leadership foolishness is finished, complacency is canceled, incompetence can’t happen, and waste is not welcomed. Jackson, “We will be ‘Open For Business.'”

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Genesis and Light Center is an organization that I founded that serves students from kindergarten to age 18, senior citizens, and those in the Jackson community who need supportive services and workforce skills. The meaning behind the center’s name stems from its purpose of enlightening our communities to better ways of living. The center provides workshops and seminars on relevant issues (e.g., opioid addiction) that raise awareness of problems facing the community. Additionally, hundreds of low-income children benefit from the afterschool programs and summer programs that provide opportunities for healthier living. For 30 years, I have dedicated myself to bolstering the impact of Genesis and Light, evident in the services we once offered in Illinois and Mississippi cities of Jackson, Natchez, Hazlehurst, Yazoo City, Tunica, Forest, Canton, Greenville, Durant and Utica. Specifically, our afterschool services have impacted over 35,000 disadvantaged youth, and summer programs have reached over 15,000 disadvantaged youth. Additionally, our senior services have enhanced the lives of over 1000 elderly individuals. Not only does my organization provide services to the disadvantaged, Genesis and Light have also employed over 350 individuals, offered volunteer opportunities to over 5,000 individuals, and helped over 75 individuals find employment, serving as proof of my experience leading Mississippians to new economic and educational opportunities.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Outside of work and home, I spend my time at my church. I am a member of Greater Pearlie Grove MB Church in Jackson, where I serve in the youth, Christian education and audio-visual departments.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My favorite Jacksonians are my parents, Mr. Howard Wilson and Mrs. Mildred Wilson (both deceased), who were raised in the segregated south. My parents, having grown up in the late 1940s, stressed the importance of the one thing they were denied: “an education.” I attribute my foundations of faith, family values, and zeal to serve others to my parents.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: I am a Former Management Employee of the City of Jackson, Mississippi. I am a seasoned executive management professional who creates strategic alliances with organization leaders to effectively align with and support key financial program funding initiatives and collaborative fiscal infrastructure.

A proven and Tenured Public Administrator with several municipalities and Nationally.

A true servant leader.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A:

1. Employment opportunities and access, public employees’ morale, and commitment to performance excellence.
2. Infrastructure enhancements, and Citizens’ resolutions for negligence in the city delivery of services.
3. Grow the City of Jackson cleanup and development through investments and the special events market.

As Mayor, I will use the attainable and available resources to enact my proven tenure as a servant leader and move the City of Jackson forward.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: As an experienced Senior Transportation Management Consultant assigned to work with the Governor’s Team of Financial Experts during an earlier state takeover.

A philosophy addressing a state takeover can be avoided with a high degree of consistent performance measures, which is a forte of a public management professional. I offer tenured proven successes as a servant leader in eliminating a state takeover.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I will seek trust understanding collaboration, cooperation, and working with the Council (the fiduciary elected body) for the common good of the City of Jackson and its citizens.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Comments moving in the wrong direction as related to candidates can be subjective. Performance efficiency of City Services, employment opportunities, enhancements for City employees, investments, and redevelopment are all good starts to a good path. I would use these characteristics to guide the city’s path moving forward.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Negotiated Municipalities’ re-entry into the regional ad valorem referendum for regional transportation funding. Implemented operations for the Project Zero program signed by the Governor. Acquired Federal Funding to construct Downtown transfer facilities.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Church, Golf, organizations, and activities and public/community activities. Gym.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Medger Evers

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: A god-fearing Republican with a 70-year civic effort, and now a great-grandfather

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A:

1. New JPS school supt. and reform
2. New police dept. — 500 patrol minimum
3. State/federal funded $1 billion budget

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I would support total takeover to make city clean-safe-viable-stop total decline-increase population

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I would scrap entire group. Return Mayor + 2 or 3 Commissioners form if possible.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Remove current mayor, dist. attorney and really any Democratic Party association

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Party to closing all six Jackson abortion clinics and 12-time candidate

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Church and downtown eateries

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Roy McMillan-activist, died 2016
Sis Downing-grandmother, died 1980

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

I believe my unique combination of skills, experience, and enthusiasm make me an ideal candidate for this job. I have a strong background in customer service, excellent communication skills, and a passion for problem-solving

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A: I would have a meeting with the city council board in reference to the city garbage contract and ask the board how would they feel about the city getting a contract with waste management for residential waste pickup.

• Public Safety: Pay raises for police officers and firefighters (try to do a cost of living raise each year for city employees)
• Economy: Try to bring business to Jackson, Mississippi, so the citizens of Jackson, MS could have employment
• City Service: Would like to repair 5 street in each ward in a month times
• Youth: Working youth court in reference to the youth to stay trouble and find education/employment for youth
• Water problem: Talked with city council about the water issues

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I would work closely with the Public Works Director to try to find out the issue and talk with the Planning Development. I will have an open-door policy with the Jackson-Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport Board and the City of Jackson Board. I will have an open-door policy with the Jackson Police Department Chief, Court Clerk, and Judges to keep citizens and visitors safe. I would work closely with the Jackson Public School Board.

I say a state takeover could be beneficial in some extreme situations where a district is severely underperforming and unable to make necessary changes on its own, but such interventions should be carefully designed and implemented with significant community input.  

On the flip side, if a takeover is not carefully considered, it could cause disruption amongst local elected officials because their control has been taken away, the community engagement may decrease, and you start receiving negative morale. 

Got to know who is most important and who it will affect the most in each situation in the schools, the achievements of the students could drop with no improvements

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The citizens of Jackson know the councilman and mayor do not get along as right now. I, Kenneth Gee, will have a meeting with the board and find out what you would like from me as the mayor.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: I would like to speak with the governor of the state of Mississippi and the Speaker of the House (Jason White), and speak to them about the city of Jackson and ask for help from the State of Mississippi.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Civic engagement includes communities working together or individuals working alone in both political and non-political actions to protect public values or make a change in a community.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: In the community, talking with citizens about Jackson, Mississippi.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: No response

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: In addition to the foundation provided by my education received from the Mississippi College School of Business, I am fortunate to have had a wide range of work experience. Founding and operating multiple businesses has given me firsthand experience managing budgets, making payroll every week, meeting customer expectations, supporting team members, and striving to maintain a responsible faith/family/work balance. While in senior management for Trustmark National Bank, I was part of managing a complex organization and responsible for management of annual operating and capital budgets in excess of $70MM for 200 locations across six states.

The experience gained serving two terms on the Board of Aldermen for the city of Clinton is invaluable. Having had the opportunity to be part of city government done well will be of great benefit as mayor of Jackson. Differences of opinion and direction between a council and mayor and even between council members are inevitable. Although difficult at times, we were able to resolve disagreements without it becoming personal and to find solutions that fulfilled our responsibilities to residents. Thirty years ago we were planning and constructing sewer treatment facilities, assessing and rehabbing water lines, and implementing pavement management systems in the city of Clinton.

Although the experience gained as a business owner, in management at Trustmark National Bank, serving in municipal government, and through community ministry has been good preparation and a proving ground for what is needed to lead the city of Jackson, business skills and city government experience are not enough to produce the sustainable results our residents deserve. Many of our residents, particularly the youth, need support, a listening ear, mentorship, and a biblical foundation to serve as a moral compass as they mature into young adults. The opportunities I’ve had to spend time with students and teachers at Jim Hill High School in Tigers for Christ for three years, going to Young Life camp with inner city Jackson students, and to visit with and offer encouragement to students at Soul City in midtown has given me a deep awareness of how many of our youth are genuinely traumatized. Weekly news stories of murder and violence in Jackson have become too normal. Most violence is targeted and not random, but for too many youth the victim is a sibling, a parent or a friend. It’s trauma. It’s personal.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A: 1. Pray –

• We must be a city of prayer. We need to join together across cultural, ethnic, religious, and political lines to unite in prayer. City government effectively providing the services for which it is responsible is critical, but for Jackson to be restored in a sustainable manner we need heart change as well.
• II Chronicles 7:14 – “If my people who are called by my name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
• Pray. Plan. Proceed.

2. Safe City – Group Violence Intervention

• Establish partnerships between law enforcement, the faith community, community leaders, social services, and residents. This collaboration will enhance trust and reinforce the message that violence is unacceptable to the entire community.
• Implement strategies which employ a focused approach to identify the small number of individuals and groups most responsible for gun violence and address through direct intervention.
• Authorities and community partners meet directly with offenders to convey consequences of continued violence and offer assistance for those who want to change.

3. Restore Infrastructure

• Establish a close working relationship with Jxn Water to help ensure we have a voice in the direction of and future management of these vital systems.
• Manage street improvements through a comprehensive pavement management program shared with government partners to maximize benefits received from city and county tax dollars, One Percent Sales Tax Commission resources, State Aid Road funds, and Capital Complex Improvement District investment.
• Develop a traffic control device strategy that will determine appropriate traffic control devices needed based on traffic volume, crash history, and pedestrian activity to prioritize repair, replacement or removal based on these criteria.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: The city of Jackson must protect our ownership of properties and systems that rightfully belong to the city, but we must first be willing to consider how our action or inaction as a city may have led to intervention by the state. Have we managed city business well? Have we considered how our actions impact the state of Mississippi? What could we have handled differently? We must communicate openly and demonstrate a spirit of cooperation to develop close working relationships with state officials regardless of political party affiliations or ideologies. This should be an ongoing effort, not only when Jackson needs state assistance or is lobbying for funding. Relationships require all parties to participate, and we will need the state to be a partner in this effort as well. This is best accomplished through frequent, open communication. Even when the likelihood of city and state officials agreeing may be low, we must be willing to be at the table together striving to find workable solutions.

The state providing law enforcement resources via the Capitol Police has been referred to by some as a takeover, but I view it more as additional public safety resources made available to Jackson. The addition of the Capitol Police has increased police presence in the CCID which makes redistribution of Jackson Police Department officers across the city possible, benefiting all of Jackson. Overlapping jurisdictions require close coordination and a spirit of cooperation, but the leadership of the Jackson Police Department, Capitol Police, Hinds County Sheriff’s Office and other state and federal partners seem to be managing this well.

Regarding airport and stadium issues, Jackson should protect its long-held ownership, but as I’ve stated throughout these responses, open conversations are needed, and good faith negotiations could produce a desirable outcome ending litigation.

What could a redeveloped Smith-Wills property look like? The Smith-Wills property, in its current state, is of little benefit to most Jacksonians. By partnering with the state in redevelopment planning, could this prime location, which is currently underutilized, be converted into an amenity benefiting more residents of Jackson? The LeFleur’s Bluff area, owned by the state, has been developed into a major attraction for Jackson and all of Mississippi. This Smith-Wills property, being available for further recreational redevelopment, could be a great addition to the area.

Jackson–Medgar Wiley Evers International Airport has been in operation since 1963. Currently, it is operated by the Jackson Municipal Airport Authority which has a five-commissioner board. Since 1963 the surrounding areas have grown tremendously and likely utilize JAN more than residents of Jackson. Is it time to consider increasing the number of commissioners to give surrounding areas a voice in management of the airport without relinquishing control? Could the JMAA function more as a regional authority? The airport belongs to Jackson, and we should protect our ownership. If the state and surrounding areas desire an alternate management structure, let’s consider good faith negotiations to find a workable solution as an attempt to end current litigation.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: Conflict and disagreements are inevitable when elected officials with different constituencies, objectives, and personalities are responsible for setting policy for and managing a city. Although conflict is to be expected, it should not be allowed to become personal and persist to the point where residents suffer the consequences.

To function properly, a mayor and council members should approach their roles with a public service mindset, communicate effectively, and respect each other’s roles as elected officials. The council and mayor must allow the others to perform their statutory responsibilities for the residents of Jackson without efforts being made to obstruct the fulfillment of these responsibilities. Good relationships require open communication and trust. The time and effort required to build trust and respect for each other as individuals and the offices to which they have been elected must be invested.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Characteristics of Jackson on the right path:

• A city administration demonstrating a willingness to work together for the good of residents and setting an example of how to cooperatively determine workable solutions for issues and how to manage conflict when it arises
• Increased involvement of the business community, faith community, community service organizations, and residents serving Jackson asking, “What can I do?”
• Collaborative efforts where we are not concerned with who gets the credit, but we roll up our sleeves and get our boots dirty – we’re Better Together.
• Strengthened relationships with the State of Mississippi through open communication and recognizing we have a responsibility to the state as its capital city – we’re Better Together.
• Increased community collaboration with law enforcement in violence reduction efforts through engaging those involved in violence and offering a way out – we’re Better Together.
• Continued improvement on infrastructure, improved relationships with Jxn Water, and agreement with state and federal partners on future ownership and operations of water/sewer systems
• An improved business climate, especially in underserved areas, where businesses have an opportunity to prosper and increase job opportunities for residents, especially our youth
• Further progress towards the goal of an “A” rated public school system
• The expansion of volunteer programs offering mentoring, life skills training, job readiness instruction, and tutoring to strengthen the schools and the community as a whole

How do we get there? The three solutions offered above plus others:

Job Creation & Training

• Equip residents with skills aligned with the needs of local industry by partnering with local business, non-profits, and education institutions to offer work skill mentoring, apprenticeships, and career readiness programs.
• Encourage public-private partnerships for collaboration between private investors, nonprofits, and education institutions to pool resources and incentivize investment in underserved areas.
• Work with state and federal partners to evaluate and implement programs successfully utilized in other states providing residents opportunities to transition into the workforce without experiencing the benefit cliff.

Beautification and Blight Elimination

• Encourage and support grassroot efforts to identify blight and organize neighborhood cleanup or beautification projects through neighborhood associations and residents.
• Collaborate with developers and nonprofit organizations to fund and manage blight removal and redevelopment efforts such as incremental infill development strategies successfully implemented in other cities.
• Work with our Legislative delegation to streamline processes that currently hinder cleanup of distressed and tax foreclosed properties providing avenues to repurpose and redevelop properties.

Homeownership Opportunities

• Work with local financial institutions and non-profits to offer workshops and other resources on budgeting, mortgage options, and maintaining good credit to prepare individuals for successful homeownership.
• Establish programs to sell vacant, tax-foreclosed or blighted properties at low cost to first-time home buyers or residents currently renting and require the property be renovated and owner-occupied.
• Provide incentives for first-time home buyers to acquire and rehabilitate tax-foreclosed properties. This approach makes homeownership more accessible, improves vacant properties, and returns properties to the tax rolls.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: My most significant civic accomplishment was being elected to the Clinton Board of Aldermen at age 26 and serving two terms during a period of major infrastructure improvements and economic growth.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: For almost three years, I have not had an office and frequent third-spaces across Jackson on an almost daily basis. We are fortunate to have many quality locally owned eateries/coffee shops that offer opportunities to build community and add to the fabric of Jackson. It is encouraging, as I move across the city, to see small groups spending time together over a meal or cup of coffee. Recognizing the Bible states that iron sharpens iron, my favorite third-space experiences are meeting with men to discuss our responsibilities as men, how we can help our city, to pray, and for Bible study. I’m fortunate to meet with small groups weekly in Belhaven and at The Ark in south Jackson and monthly for men’s breakfasts at New Vineyard Church in south Jackson and Disciples of Christ Ministries in west Jackson. Community does thrive in third-spaces.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Four Jacksonians I highly respect for their contributions to Jackson and beyond:

James L. Barksdale
Rep. Ronnie Crudup, Jr.
Dr. John M. Perkins
Leland R. Speed

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: My love for people, which includes helping families experience a better quality of life. We can do this by providing a quality education, recreation and hands on economic development activities so families can thrive and be prosperous and successful. My experience as a leader in my community will play a pivotal role in how I run the city. Owning and actually working as a Child Development Director, where I’ve trained, hired, and overseen staff, including preschool teachers qualifies me to run this city. I do have management skills. The main goal of my team and I is to Revive, Rebirth and Regrow all of Jackson. As a Pastor over congregants for over thirteen years. I’m sure I’m qualified, because I’ve had the responsibility of encouraging, motivating parishioners through the Word of God, yet providing counseling and resources when needed. I also have a degree in Sociology/minor in Social Work, Jackson State University, AA degree in Early Childhood Technology/Hinds Community College, Masters and Doctorate in Christian Counseling from New Foundation Seminary in Terry, Mississippi.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A: The problem of youth crime is significant, and we can solve it with improving the education system, providing programs for at-risk children and youth.

We have an infrastructure problem, our goal is to pave more streets, remove abandon houses, build new ones, and spearhead and encourage homeownership, as well as beautify the city with flowers and blooming trees. Management and Accountability is much needed in Jackson. I would encourage and insist that all department heads, employees and Myself show responsibility for our decision and actions in making Jackson the best it can be in education, recreation, infrastructure, economic development and improving the quality of life for families in Jackson.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: As far as my philosophy about state takeovers, I don’t favor it. I believe if Jackson is given its fair share of funds, we will be able to do much more in improving our infrastructure which includes the water system, education, parks and recreation for our children as well as job skills program. As a lifelong hardworking Jacksonian, I believe we should demand better in our criminal justice system. I assure there are citizens in Jackson that want and deserve change but not through State takeovers. It is what it is right now, but with new leadership that possess management and accountability skills

Jackson will be Revive, go through a Rebirth and consequently Regrow! We will be willing to work with the Governor and Legislators and other organizations to make these goals a reality!

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

I think in all cases you can agree to disagree. Positive communication is key to a great working relationship. I would encourage Respect for one another views as we reach an amicable decision on the problem or issue at hand.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

Jackson is a melting pot of different races, nationalities of smart, energetic and caring people. I believe that the majority of people want the same as other thriving and growing communities: Life, Liberty and the Pursuit of Happiness!

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: One of my most recent civic accomplishments was when I traveled to McComb, MS and participated in a boot camp that taught skills in Voting Registration. And I was able to use what I learned and coordinated several voter registrations drives in Jackson.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Okay I love the outdoors. I often take my afterschool students on field trips that help them to appreciate the environment and nature, I love to fish. I’m also an author of a book for children that helps promoted social-emotional development in children. The title is: “Cats And Dogs Have Feelings Too.” I love gardening, and proud to say we provide free vegetables and fruit to some of the elderly in our community.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Today, I would say my husband of 50 years, my family, my mother and father, my friends, Atty. Constance Slaughter Harvey, My Godmother, Pastor Willie Mae Evans and all those Pastors, Ministers and lay people I have served in the ministry God has given me.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: I could list many reasons but I think the best qualifier is I have a track record of taking disasters and turning them around. By Gods grace I am a master of taking less and making it more. When I took a role as young adult pastor at a small church in Jackson, we had no young adult ministry at all. Within 6 months they had over 35 active young adults, and I trained someone to take that position and transitioned to lead the worship team.

Another church had just recovered from a scandal that crippled their congregation and ransacked their leadership and staff as well as budget. With 9 months as the interim worship pastor, I developed new systems of training and operation. Revamped the entire auditorium media systems. Trained a new production team, trained the worship team, and fully onboarded new team members. When the new worship pastor took over he told me “I know what this looked like 3 years ago and you’ve taken a garbage heap and handed me the keys to a Mercedes.”

During my time in the restaurant and sales/customer service industry, I regularly trained and developed teams, and improved systems to create maximum efficiency while also increasing team chemistry and morale. I am gifted in team building, objective completion, and system building. Jackson is a city with divided teams, scattered vision, and broken systems. We are hurting and lacking in available resources and what we do have is being mismanaged.

I believe I have the exact proven leadership and managerial experience necessary to take on the challenge of rebuilding and revitalizing Jackson, and turning it into a smooth running, fully efficient city of systems that work the way they’re supposed to for the benefit of every citizen.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A: We have a CRIME problem. We start by taking the remaining 25% of the budget and funding the hire of additional JPD officers. We raise and allocate money to repair and buy more vehicles for them and technology. We will work with Capitol police, Hinds County Sheriffs DEPT, and State Highway Patrol as well as FBI and ATF to secure warrants for KNOWN areas of nuisance and criminal hideaways and drug houses and begin taking the fight TO the criminals.

I will work with the city council to enact new panhandling ordinances so we can sort out who the actual homeless population are that need help, and who’s just taking advantage of a chance for free money.

We will be engaging the community encouraging them to report criminal or suspicious activity. I’ve had people tell me they saw teenagers carrying rifles in battlefield park yet they never reported it to police. We will be relying heavily on community involvement to identify and apprehend anyone who is in illegal possession of a firearm or possession of an illegal firearm (such as glocks with switches) or carrying concealed weapons without a proper holster and no permit. Simple enforcement of laws already on the books will help us cut down crime drastically.

Additionally, I will be working to bring new workforce development programs and youth internship programs to the city through various non profits and churches in order to raise the chances of success in our communities, especially those that have been historically disenfranchised. I will work to end the food and job deserts so people can find good paying jobs and resources in their own community without having to travel to other cities and parts of the city to find work or resources.

Another issue we will solve is our INFRASTRUCTURE. Right now we are heavily contracting our work and we are not even using the right materials to create lasting solutions. As mayor I will end the use of coal mix for the repair and pavement of roads and require our city paving teams to use high quality asphalt and concrete for ALL road projects and street repairs.

I will hire an experienced civil engineer as quickly as possible, my goal is within the first 90 days of taking office. We’ll work with them to prioritize our engineering projects and create solutions to the problems in our road, drainage, and drinking water systems. We will no longer have money sitting in the account to fix roads that doesn’t get spent.

I will work with JXN water collaboratively to ensure every citizen in every part of the city has clean drinking and bathing water and work together with the intention of regaining control of our water system in 2027. We will collaborate on a plan to create a sustainable future for our water systems, and secure the funding and manpower necessary to rebuild our water infrastructure before it is too late.

Third, we have an OPPORTUNITY problem. People here are broke and bored. Youth lack productive and entertaining ways to use their time. Children lack quality education, their schools are underfunded and in disrepair. Our libraries are closing and falling apart. Our parks are dilapidated. I intend to bring skateparks, racetracks, paintball parks, family centers, music venues, and all manner of recreational and entertainment vehicles to our city, with a focus on areas like south and west Jackson that lack these basic outlets.

We will pursue outside investment including solar farms, data centers, and Fortune 500 companies to bring business and revenue opportunities.

We will work with local business and investors to bring inside investment to our city and provide additional jobs and paths to success. We will work with NACA and other organizations and individuals to create an accessible path to home ownership in the city. We will make city owned properties available to purchase at little to nothing for those who will commit to rehabilitation of these properties with a high standard.

We will partner with tech companies and AI focused businesses to bring investment, training, and development to our workforce and schools. We will partner with churches and non profits and pursue grant money to create more housing and resource centers for those who are homeless or facing homelessness and walk them through a path to financial and mental freedom.

We will work to restore mental health services to those who need it, and partner with counselors, therapists, and spiritual leaders to create resources and opportunities for our citizens to receive mental health support, trauma healing, and emotional management tools and training.

These are just a few non exhaustive ways I will work to solve the many issues we are facing.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I believe the state is out of order, and if any other state in the nation was doing this, it would make national news and be a constitutional battle. I intend to hold the state accountable for their overreach, but also work to hold ourselves accountable for even allowing it to get so bad; that the state taking over looks like them doing us a favor. We have to get our house in order first, before we can fight the state on many of these issues. I am however committed to keeping our airports unless citizens choose to rescind them, keeping the state out of our court systems, and rebuilding JPD, and ending the need for capital police to be operating outside of their traditional jurisdiction. This isn’t happening in any other state, and they should’ve given that funding to JPD instead of hiring 100 more Capital Officers. I have nothing against capital police. I’ve spoken with their chief and I believe he has a good heart and is well equipped for the job. This is an issue with our state officials, and it has to stop NOW. This isn’t about parties or political agendas. This is about violating the sanctity and sovereignty of local municipal government. Under my leadership we will work WITH the state, not as a subsidiary OF the state.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I think the majority of our council is corrupt just like the mayor. I predicted the indictments 6 months before they happened, and sadly, there’s still more sitting on the council who are yet to be caught in their crimes.

That being said I have already begun speaking with council members even before I chose to run. In spite of what many people think, it is possible to work with people you don’t agree with and still get stuff done. Even people who are breaking the law but not yet facing a penalty.

I’m going to improve it by doing what I always do. Having real conversations, building or at least attempting to build a working relationship, and by being willing to compromise and negotiate on issues that are not hills to die on. As long as there’s no foul play, I will work with everyone on the council to come to mutual agreements and solutions that meet the needs and goals of our citizens, regardless of if it meets the goals of my own agenda.

Great leaders are great servants and you have to be willing to put the needs of the people over your ego and need to be right. I believe that the council deserves more transparency from the mayors office, and we should work with them not against them. I intend to have the council heavily involved in my decision making, and actively participating in the work that I do as mayor, rather than simply asking them to vote on my agenda without any input.

We must remember that the councilman are supposed to represent the citizens of their wards. If we ignore the wishes and voices of our council, we are essentially saying that the voices of our residents don’t matter. And trust me, I hear them LOUD and CLEAR.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: A Jackson on the right path has these 3 things.

ACCESSIBILITY. ACCOUNTABILITY. AFFORDABILITY.

We will make all unclassified government information easily, and publicly accessible to citizens via an updated website, And a new city app.

We will improve J-TRAN and explore new public transportation options to ensure citizens from every corner of the city can get where they need to go. This includes adding additional bus stops for J TRAN to support east Jackson and other parts of the city that you cannot access if you have to take a bus.

We will make safe streets and schools accessible to every citizen. We do this by funding our police, increasing their resources, and also investing in our community and youth in order to make sure people are not just becoming products of an environment that we refuse to improve.

Access to solutions for non violent disputes. I will create a taskforce for non violent dispute resolution. They will have a hotline and be available to call instead of police. They will be specially equipped and trained to handle emotional regulation and de-escalation. Every issue does not have to become a call to police or CPS. People need tools and help to have healthy conflict resolution without fear of going to jail or losing someone they love.

Access to good paying jobs and housing. We do this by prioritizing development in areas that are lacking jobs and businesses, removing or restoring abandoned buildings, and working to create quality housing that is both affordable and desirable.

We will increase access to quality education for students, internship opportunities and workforce pipelines. I will work with JPS to assess and evaluate the distribution of funding, as well as the state to ensure that fair and equitable funding is being provided to EVERY school in JPS, not just the schools with the most high performing students.
We will also hold charter schools accountable for accepting admissions of students then expelling or releasing them while keeping the funding.

We will increase access to answers about city progress by creating a dashboard on the city website and future city app. If you order a pizza you get a progress bar. If you order a package you get a tracking number and progress reports. The city of Jackson will offer citizens the same thing and you’ll be able to keep track of the progress on every city project even if it’s as simple as repairing a street sign.

This plays into my second goal, ACCOUNTABILITY. We want citizens to be able to receive an account for where their tax money and grant money is being spent. You should know what every dollar is being used for. I will be ordering audits to be completed for every department in the city under my leadership. It will be due in 30 days. I will demand the council approve a contract with an auditor, and we will expect a completion of that audit in no more than 90 days from the execution of that contract. We will bring our city current from being two years behind the state required audits.

We will have deadlines for city projects and regular evaluations of staff. If city administration staff are not performing their duties at the expected level of excellence, correction will be offered. Any city official found to be breaking any law or exercising poor ethics will be fired immediately.

I will create a diverse advisory committee comprised of citizens from each ward of various ages, genders, and ethnic backgrounds to offer their counsel on issues we face and plans we want to implement. We will meet at least twice a month whether in person or virtually to ensure that our agenda is in alignment with the citizens of our city.

I am committing to audio record as many non classified conversations as possible when conducting official city business. These recordings will be submitted to staff and archived. I will speak with legal to determine what we can publicly post and what will be reserved if there’s ever a lawsuit or situation that would make the recordings necessary. I want to ensure that citizens have every reason to be confidence in their decision to trust me as their mayor. If you can’t say it on a recording, you probably shouldn’t say it at all.

We will have no less than one weekly press conference, and will regularly host town halls where citizens can speak, ask questions, and be informed on progress we make in the city.

Finally, we will create Affordability. We pay the most taxes of any city in the state. We lack the amenities and quality of life of the surrounding cities and counties. It’s not okay.

As mayor I am committed to stabilizing our tax system, and finding ways to fund our needs through grants, state and federal appropriations, business investments, and non profit donations. We are going to find ways to offer assistance to those who cannot afford to pay for their car tag or insurance, rather than seeking to fine them, tow their vehicle, or arrest them.

We will work with multiple people and organizations especially churches to create affordable, quality housing and a path to home ownership for citizens in every Ward. As mayor I will be looking to bring new energy and utility companies to the table to end the monopoly of Entergy and Atmos in the metro and provide competitive prices and services to residents.

I am actively having conversations with business owners and looking to create an initiative for businesses and employers to provide housing allowances, transportation allowances, or homes and vehicles to employees that provide a commitment. If we can succeed with this initiative, this would provide an unprecedented amount of security and affordability to our citizens by offering them residence and transportation in some shape or fashion, in addition to their regular salaries.

A: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I don’t know what exactly qualifies as a civic accomplishment, but I can say one recent accomplishment I’m very happy about is in the month of November the day of the elections I spoke to the city council regarding the violation of sign ordinance by politicians in the city within 24 hours of my comments reaching the news a large amount of those signs were taken down by the candidates in violation. That simple statement that I made affected immediate and meaningful change.

It showed our citizens that using your voice does make a difference. I believe most of my accomplishments would qualify less as civic and more as community or spiritual. I am very pleased with the ministry achievements I have made such as performing in the Brandon amphitheater last year at the Go Tell Crusade and that night seeing over 2000 youth make a decision to follow Christ.

Working with youth in Canopy Children’s home, then getting to see them succeeding as adults years later is another achievement I consider to be priceless.

I don’t know if I am responsible in any way for this, but I spoke with chairman Trey Lamar and speaker Jason White last year at their tax policy reform summit. They had expressed that they wanted to remove income tax but had no plans to change the grocery tax. I told them that removing the grocery tax was imperative to improving the finances of citizens in Jackson who already pay the highest taxes on everything else, and that if my home state of Texas could do it while also not taking any income tax and charging a comparable fuel tax, then Mississippi could too. We now have seen them propose a bill that brings the grocery tax from 7% to 2.5%. I like to think that even if I’m not directly responsible, I was able to use my voice to move the needle in a direction that directly improved the finances of my neighbors.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Churches. Restaurants. Parks. Our museums. I really enjoy highland village, I often take my children to the floor park in Manhattan Park and many of my favorite restaurants are here in Jackson. I am also frequently in Fondren, especially when I’m working concerts at Duling Hall.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Dead, I would say Medgar Evers. His story is inspiring and he stood up to corruption and injustice and was willing to speak truth to power even though it cost him his life. His sacrifice made the future we live in today possible.

Living, I have to say my friends. People like Danzael Blount, Jonathan JT Taylor, Marquss Coleman… They all played a role in my story here in Jackson and still do.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: I believe that Jackson has a problem with the stewardship coming from its leadership. Jackson has too many assets that are poorly performing if they’re performing at all. All this to detriment of Jacksonians.

This is compounded by the lapses in character and integrity on the part of some in elected positions.

So I’m not proclaiming to be some great leader. I’m just an average American with common sense

Which I am going apply to the problems.

Basic troubleshooting 101, is where we’re gonna start.

I am not necessarily the best man for the job.

I am the “right man”for the job!

I intend to break all this foolishness up at the door, day one!

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A: I am not ruling out declaring a State of Emergency for 1-2 years.

According to the last census, there’s about 150,000 residents in Jackson. We’re gonna cut up the workload to restore Jackson 150,000 ways.

We’re gonna engage the nonprofits and people in the compassion industry to help us repair and restore Jackson the common areas of our lives.

Everyone will have to come out of their comfort zone and everyone will have something to contribute. No one will be exempt from helping.

Thus, non profits along with others who serve the less fortunate are going to have to have a work component to their work, ministry or efforts.

2. We’re going to commit $1 million to purchase road equipment and reestablish our public works department. The revenues will come from advertising on the JaTran benches and bus stops.
3. We’re going to do away with the city’s “set aside” programs as it’s been implemented.
   And paradoxically expand them at the same time to benefit of all Jacksonians.

I am not the best man for the job.

I am the right man for the job!

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

It is a tempest in a teapot. But for the poor stewardship of the leadership none of the areas that you just cited would be subject to take over.

Had they been doing their job and managing the assets of the city. The State is merely doing its custodial duties.

This will not be an issue in my administration because accountability will be the coin of the realm.

Everybody gets to keep their job that’s doing their job.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I’m looking forward to sharing with the city council the chore, task and responsibility of administering the city services of Jackson to its residents.

Each council member would have direct access to all department heads they will not have to go through the mayor‘s office. My desire is to get enough revenue generated so that each council person would have their own hot shot Response coordinator possibly two per Ward so the citizens can be served properly.

We have to get the currency flowing here in Jackson. We have fewer paths to economic viability than we’ve had in the past. But, the few we have are achievable with the mayor.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Jackson must have loftier goals and objectives that all citizens can agree and look up to achieve.

All to often we look across and at one another and pick a part our petty differences. That’s wasteful and poor stewardship.

That’s why all my policies will emanate from “what’s good for kids, babies!”, and what is good for property values.

Because if you look out for the kids then you’re looking out for the future.

If you look out for property values, you’ll be able to finance the future.

This is not rocket science.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Help to build office space for a 93 year old doctor in a small town. So that he could continue seeing patients for free. He needed a physical address to keep his medical license.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Fondren area…

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

All those wearing or wore blue collars. So many lying in graves with no stones over them to mark their time on this earth.

But lived lives of character and integrity…

They built the solid oak stage of life we now stand and can barely keep it repaired. Despite all our degrees and accomplishments.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I bring a rare combination of financial expertise, problem-solving skills, and deep community ties that uniquely position me to serve Ward 1 and the city effectively. As a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) with over a decade of experience in auditing and financial oversight, I understand how to navigate budgets, ensure fiscal responsibility, and implement policies that lead to real, sustainable improvements.

Beyond my professional background, I have a strong connection to this community—not just as a resident, but as someone who has actively engaged in local issues, supported businesses, and worked alongside families to make Jackson a better place. I don’t just talk about challenges; I analyze them, strategize solutions, and take action to create meaningful change.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

1. Improve Financial Reporting – Work with the administration to complete the 2023 audit before the end of 2025 and address gaps in operational processes to prevent future delays.
2. Strengthen Operational Efficiency – Engage with residents to identify top complaints about city services, collaborate with administration to determine resource needs, and implement council-backed solutions for better enforcement and accountability.
3. Increase Budget Oversight – Ensure greater accountability in how city funds are allocated, push for clearer spending priorities, and hold the administration responsible for directing resources efficiently.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: When the state moves to take control of a city’s operations, the key question is: What’s the actual goal? If the goal is stability, then the focus should be on ensuring Jackson has the resources to govern effectively and not just shifting control.

At the core of every takeover attempt is financial structure. Without timely audits and a structured budgeting process, the city remains vulnerable to intervention. That’s why my priority will be strengthening financial oversight by ensuring grant management, budget reporting, and financial audits are up to date.

I will push for regular financial reviews, transparent budgeting, and clear accountability measures to ensure Jackson isn’t left at a disadvantage. I will also track state intervention efforts to make sure they align with real investment and measurable progress, rather than just a shift in power.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current relationship between the mayor and city council members seems to reflect passionate individuals with conflicting views on how to move the city forward. While differences in perspective are expected, the relationship should be more collaborative, with a focus on give-and-take discussions that prioritize residents above all else.

To improve this dynamic, I would bring my ability to communicate effectively in high-pressure situations, a skill I’ve developed as an auditor when delivering difficult but necessary information. Additionally, I would explore opportunities to strengthen the overall culture of collaboration, potentially through outside consultation or structured dialogue to ensure productive engagement between leadership.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: A Jackson that is on the right path will take a Five-Pillar Approach, with fiscal responsibility as the foundation. Without strong financial oversight, the city cannot effectively invest in infrastructure, improve public safety, support economic development, or expand recreational opportunities. Everything starts with getting the finances in order.

That’s why my first priority will be fiscal responsibility—getting the 2023 audit completed, working toward 2024 financial compliance, and identifying what grants we may have lost due to mismanagement. It also means cutting wasteful spending by scaling back unnecessary city-funded events and ensuring resources are directed toward real solutions that benefit residents.

When our financial house is in order, we can move forward on infrastructure, making sure roads, drainage, and utilities are properly maintained. We can address public safety, creating a city where people feel safe again. We can focus on economic development, making Jackson a place where businesses want to stay and grow. And we can expand recreational opportunities, improving parks and public spaces to enhance the city’s quality of life.

Once Jackson is financially stable, it will not only function more efficiently but also become more attractive to businesses and investors. And just as importantly, the state will see a city that is managing itself effectively — rather than one vulnerable to takeover attempts.
By prioritizing fiscal responsibility first, we create a structured, sustainable path forward where resources are allocated efficiently, progress is measurable, and residents see real change in their everyday lives.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: One of my biggest civic accomplishments is the work I’ve done — and continue to do — at Jackson State University and within the accounting profession as a whole.

After graduating from Ole Miss, I began working with the College of Business at Jackson State, leading workshops, resume reviews, and mentorship programs through the National Association of Black Accountants (NABA). From there, I co-founded an initiative, originally known as ACAP (Accounting Career Awareness Program), that has now grown into a major program sponsored by Deloitte.

Through this program, many high school juniors and seniors go to Jackson State’s campus for a week-long immersive experience, where they not only learn about accounting and the CPA profession but also get direct exposure to college life and career development. Over the years, the program has expanded into a multi-phase conversion program, meaning that students who attend the first session can return for deeper professional development opportunities.

Several students have gone on to major in accounting, pursue CPA licensure, and establish careers in the field. Some of them have stayed in close contact with me, and recently, as I’ve been canvassing, a few have even volunteered to support my campaign, which speaks to the lasting relationships built through this work.

This accomplishment means a lot to me, especially considering that minority accountants and CPAs make up only 2-3% of the profession. Being able to bridge that gap, create opportunities, and inspire the next generation of professionals is something I take great pride in.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I spend time in different places around Jackson. I like to eat out and try different restaurants, hang out with friends, and take my kids to the park and Children’s Museum.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: I don’t have any favorite Jacksonians because I truly appreciate all Jacksonians.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I am committed to being involved in making my communities better together. I have always been involved in activities that are progressive and morally based. Live and let others live. This is my brief version of my philosophy for my civic duty.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: Build stronger relationship between the different homeowner association and the 7 wards

1. Stabilizing prices for food and household goods
2. Ensuring improved attendance in K-12 and high school completion
3. Encourage entrepreneurs by utilizing community colleges and universities for small businesses

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Because of my training as a researcher, being a property owner, and wanting the best future for our children, I would let the data drive my thinking.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I am trained in qualitative methodology and would be using that knowledge to build a more professional and civil communication between the mayor and city council members, prayerfully.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Being accessible to the people via returning emails, answering calls during business hours, providing avenues that allow after hours problem-solving opportunities for workers who are unable to use the normal business hours

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: My biggest civic accomplishment in recent days is my work at the voting precinct that I manage. I am an active member of my neighborhood association since 2006.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

• Local parks
• Church functions
• Music festival
• Live stage performances
• Museums
• Feeding sites

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Alice Tisdale of the Jackson Advocate

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I have traveled the country through pursuing academic qualifications and work through the years. In that time, I realized how much I missed and appreciate MS as my home. I am proudly a Mississippian with a proud southern accent wherever I go. After making the decision to buy a home in and live in Jackson, I became more and more in love with my community and the people in it. I am unique in that I left MS at 18 thinking I didn’t want to come back, but I realized if I and everyone leaves how will anything improve. I am poised to utilize everything I’ve learned through education and leadership to work with the administration, colleagues, and anyone else that wants to see Jackson grow and thrive.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Paving major roads that residents drive each day, plus maintenance.
2. Establish a working relationship with Jackson Water third-party manager, Ted Henifin and maintain regular updates on processes for residents to maintain regularity and clarity around water as a necessity.
3. Ensure public servants/public works are compensated fairly as their work makes our lives easier.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: State government is meant to support local and municipal governments, and collaborate to solve problems together. I am not able to definitively say what my response would be in this scenario because I have no experience to reference.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The relationship between the mayor and city council should be collaborative and cooperative. I am willing to work with and cooperate throughout hard decision making and discussion.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: The characteristics of a thriving Jackson include a cohesive city government, fiscally responsible and savvy, with residents who are ready and have an avenue to work with leaders. I would support getting Jackson there by prioritizing cohesion within city government and building and/or repairing the pertinent relationships to achieve this outcome.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: In 2024, I worked with When We All Vote as the National Organizing Director. The organization focus is voter registration and there were fifteen focus states, which Mississippi was one of where voter registration drives and events were held. These registration drives and events contributed to registering over 50k people, some of which had never voted before. This occurred within 3 months prior to the 2024 presidential election, and is my biggest civic accomplishment because I spoke to many new voters who were appreciative of the opportunity to register as a new voter.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: As a mother of a young child, I frequent grocery stores and parks. Aside from that, I like to participate in meetings involving my neighbors, whether my ward or not, and hear their experiences, thoughts, and ideas on Jackson as their home.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A:

• Cassandra Welchlin
• Jeff Good
• Zakiya Summers

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I love the city of Jackson and I believe we have a bright future. My experience with local government and managing infrastructure projects makes me uniquely qualified to serve. Also my 30 years in accounting and budgeting allows me to bring that experience as well.

I have always had a servant heart and I enjoy helping people.

I have served on my nonprofit boards to make our community better.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Focus on Infrastructure because that is our future.
2. Focus on Economic Development to bring quality jobs to our community
3. Enhance the recreational activities for our youth.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I’m not in agreement with any takeover by the State. We are the only community where this is happening. We the right leaders in place I believe these efforts will cease.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I would like to see a better relationship between the mayor and the council. The council is the legislative branch and as such we should be consulted on policy matters and contractors.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: My vision is to see crime decreasing, after school activities for kids. Businesses opening in Jackson, roads being repaired and our population increasing.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I’ve been a member of the 100 Black Men of Jackson since 1997

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Church, golf course and going out to eat.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My mom who passed in 2022. Roy Cooper the father of Judge Cooper-Stokes.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: Have served for 10 years without getting indicted.

Extensive experience in big and small organizations in how successful teams accomplish their missions and experience in how they can fail to succeed. Experience in how a chain of command needs to foster trust and accountability both up and down the chain of command.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Tackle abandoned and dilapidated properties across the city by working with state and federal agencies to address the problem.
2. Crime: work with state and federal law enforcement to get bad guys off the streets.
3. Infrastructure: hire a public works director and fill out the empty engineer positions that are currently not filled.

We need to establish trust with state and federal governments so they can partner and assist the City in addressing crime, abandoned properties and infrastructure improvements.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I think hostile takeovers are a negative for the state and the related municipalities. The optics are terrible and it undermines confidence of the citizens both inside and outside the state. Civil discourse between governing authorities is critical to Mississippi’s economic future.

I am against hostile takeovers of City assets. There needs to be civil dialogue between those representing the City, State and Federal governments and the welfare of the citizens needs to be the first priority. I was the President of the City Council when the final negotiations took place regarding the City’s Water System and the Interim Third Party Manager took control of the system. Contrary to what some say it has been a very successful adjustment that has improved the quality and reliability of the Water System for the benefit of the citizens.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: A mayor under indictment by the DOJ for bribery is a bad look for Jackson. A Council that acted like it’s no big deal would be an even worse look. The City Council should be skeptical of every item that comes before us. It will take years for the Council, which also suffered two indictments, to regain the trust of the citizens of Jackson and the surrounding communities.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Public safety is issue number 1. More police on the streets. Arrest the bad actors and convince them that there are consequences for breaking the law and violent behavior. That means Jackson needs jail space so dispel the notion of “catch and release.”

We need more transparency and action to address long identified problems. We talk a lot and take way too long to fix stuff that is broken. Take Thalia Mara Hall as an example. The City’s failure to get it repaired in a timely manner undermines the confidence of citizens in Jackson and the surrounding communities.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Establishing the Abandoned Property Task Force and giving the issue increased visibility across the City and State.

During the negotiations between, the City, EPA and DOJ I was able to get the Water Billing Office transferred from the City’s oversight where we had been losing millions of dollars for many years to the oversight of the Third Party manager. The receivables due the City from the lack of professional billing had reached over $35 million and was undermining the City’s financial stability.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: My home, my business office, recreational facilities such as golf courses, restaurants and at church and the Rotary Club.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: James Meredith, Billy Mounger, Leland Speed, Willie Morris, Ted Henifin, Judge Henry Wingate, Jim Rosenblatt, Colonel Paul Willis

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I grew up in Jackson, and my husband and I are raising our four children here. We are passionate about Jackson and are fully invested in the city- we live here, work here, attend church here, and send our kids to Jackson Public Schools. I love Jackson and want it to be a city my children and yours want to return to one day. My education, work, and volunteer experience have prepared me for all the facets of city government. My background working and serving in diverse communities makes me suited to represent and work well with a wide variety of people. Ward 1 is a diverse ward and I will serve and represent everyone in the ward equally, no matter who they are.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Responsiveness & transparency to constituents: Ward 1 residents desire frequent and open lines of communication with their Council member. They deserve an elected official who responds to needs promptly and proactively. I will keep residents of Ward 1 up to date on what is going on in city hall and make sure issues that are brought to my attention are dealt with in a timely manner.
2. Promoting economic development: I will make sure business and construction permits are processed quickly so businesses do not face delays in opening or expanding. I will look at coordinating business improvement districts and obtaining grants to benefit the community.
3. Crime & Safety: Everyone has the right to live a life free from violence. We must bring together law enforcement, community leaders, and citizens to implement violence prevention and reduction strategies to keep everyone safe.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: The purpose of the government is to serve its constituents, and when it fails, it should be held accountable. It is always preferable when government can be kept in local hands, but sometimes takeovers are necessary if the safety of citizens and delivery of services are compromised. When a takeover is the only way to improve the situation, it should be short term with a return to local control as soon as possible. Ensuring we have trustworthy and capable elected city officials is the first step in making sure more takeovers do not happen. City leaders must also maintain working relationships with state officials so that the state and city work together, and not against each other, when help is needed.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current mayor and city council members have a contentious relationship, and we saw during the 2023 garbage crisis that everyone loses when they don’t work together. There should be trust and respect between the mayor and council members as we are all elected to serve our constituents and foster a thriving community. We should be able to have open dialogue and work towards collaborative solutions to proactively address opportunities and issues. I won’t let petty grievances get in the way of working to improve Jackson, no matter who is the next mayor.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: We often hear that Jackson is moving in the wrong direction. At the same time, I am around so many talented people who love Jackson, and I really believe this city can be great if we find more ways to work together. Jackson will be on the right path when city government works for everyone – when we have reliable city services like trash pickup, water, sewer, and road maintenance no matter where in the city you live; when there is transparency in government and citizens can trust their elected officials to follow and uphold the law; and when people feel safe in their homes and the city. We get there by having competent elected officials in city hall who work together for the good of the citizens.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I currently volunteer with The Net, a faith-based organization that works with families and individuals impacted by poverty and incarceration. I serve as a mentor to MDOC inmates and help lead a Bible study in a women’s prison. I work with the inmates to grow their leadership skills and prepare them for a successful life after prison. I am so thankful to see first hand the growth and maturity in the women in the program.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: My family and I are very involved in our church, St. Philip’s Episcopal. We are thankful for the friendships, fellowship and shared life we have with the other congregants there. I have also been a member of my gym, Crossfit JXN, for almost 7 years. I have grown physically and mentally stronger from my time there, while also gaining lifelong friendships.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A:

My mother Nancy Bateman has been a cellist in the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra and music teacher for over three decades. She has taught hundreds of Jackson-area children to play stringed instruments, including many current members of the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, leaving an indelible legacy on the arts community of Jackson.

Jim Barksdale used his immense wealth to benefit the state in countless ways. The Barksdale Reading Institute has done incredible work across the state, helping Mississippi’s public education system dramatically improve in nearly every category. He also has the admirable goal of donating all of his wealth during his lifetime.

The work of John Perkins at Voice of Calvary and the Perkins Center has positively impacted the most vulnerable in our city and state for decades. He founded the Christian Community Development Association, which has impacted communities across the nation and world by seeking to implement best practices in community development work to benefit vulnerable communities.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I am currently serving in the position and doing an outstanding job. I am furthering my training by attending classes through Miss Municipal Legal, National Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials and will be attending National League of Cities 2025 Congressional City Conference March 8-13, 2005. Currently, attending and holding meetings in the Ward 2. Solving problems and implementing plans to improve and expand Ward 2. Current resources and willingness to learn and ask for what is needed to improve Ward 2 and the city of Jackson. I am working from my heart and leading with a vision. Ward 2 deserves and the best and will have the best with Tina King Clay.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: Three solutions are

1. Work together for a win and win — not for 3 m’s (me, my and mine).
2. Work to achieve successful/growing city and not fighting change/improve
3. Enforce ordinances and be educated on what the city council can and not do. We late a legislative branch of government not an an executive or judicial branch. We advocate.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I would to prevent takeovers. I would work city always to do best in our interest

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: People need to respect each other and work together. Win/win.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Jackson is moving in the right direction. If you want to help, do it positively. If you can not go it positively, don’t do it all. The image of the city is what you allow to be created and I don’t allow people to influence or say negative things. We have to build our image and believe in our city. That is of false information about Jackson out there. Show people what is true and build on it. Don’t hate but you are mad at someone or something in the city. Learn when people go low we go high.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: 10000 given to JPS in my honor as Volunteer of the year from State Farm Ins

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Church/ stores/ restaurants/gyms / visiting people/ parks / outside/ Jackson has a lot to offer — trials bowling you name it we have it

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Louis King— no non sense/ positive/ respect all and glass always half full — you don’t like threw it in the reservoir and fill another yo be happy.. be happy life is short

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: 31+ years of government/Military experience, operating at the highest level. I understand structure, organization, planning and execution.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: Three pillars that I hope to help provide solutions for are economic development, infrastructure and public safety.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I am for the city and citizens of Jackson operating within its right(s) as a municipality, standing on its on as other cities/municipalities within Mississippi.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: All parties should work together as one unit to solve issues that plague the City of Jackson. I would do my part to bring both sides together for the people; that’s what we are signing up for.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: There are a lot of new development on the horizon in downtown and the surrounding areas. I want to ensure that these developments are completed and provide jobs and needed improvements for the city

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Service to my country for over 31-years as an Army Officer.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I spend my time in Ward 2 when not traveling.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Frank Milton was my hero. My uncles Walter and Thomas Cheatham pillars in the community working with the youth for many years at Grove Park.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

1. Support Law Enforcement Officers & First Responders
2. Advocate for entrepreneurs, small businesses and support big businesses to open in Jackson
3. Work with Mayor & City Council in regards to cleaning up City of Jackson

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: My response is to completely research each situation and competently make my decision based on facts that best represent citizens of Metro Jackson

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: We need more unity and professionalism at City Hall and less finger pointing. The relationship should be that of honesty, transparency and unity. I have amazing ideas to bring a more unified front in public and behind close doors. I will host events for City Hall cohorts and public

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: My agenda and vision for City Of Jackson is very optimistic. I envision City of Jackson as the future Southern City of Wealth & Prosperity. A clean & safe city.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

As a Republican long time member of No Labels Bipartisan org based in Washington , DC

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Shopping centers , parks, museums

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Charles Evers, Charles Tisdale, Frank Melton, Doris Smith, Late Mayor Chokwe Lumumba, Mayor Chokwe Lumumba, my aunt and uncles, My late mom Mrs Elizabeth (Liz) Williams, Eudora Welty, Gov Tate Reeves, Lt Gov Delbert Hosemann and more

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: Experience and seniority; the more experience and seniority the councilperson has, the greater the impact is on decision-making.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Crime prevention, making the City of Jackson safer. The action would be to provide more funds to hire more police and pay the officers as if our lives depended on it. (Increase the Police Dept.’s budget)
2. Same as number 1.
3. Same as numbers 1 and 2. We must make the COJ safe. Once the COJ is safe, all other problems can be addressed or eliminated.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I do not support State Takeovers unless mandated by the Federal Government to ensure safety of the citizens such as in the case of the Clean, Safe Drinking Water Act which ensures that citizens throughout the USA have clean, safe drinking water. I support Judge Henry Wingate and the decision he made concerning Jackson having clean, safe drinking water.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The Mayor and City Council should have a working relationship; however, there should be no criminal activities.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: For many, many years, Jackson moved in the right direction. The Legal Department made sure that laws of the city, state and federal government were followed. The City’s Legal Department should ensure that the Mayor and Council follow the laws to keep the City on the right track. I would support a visionary attorney to run the legal department who would not sell out the citizens, the city and the state of Mississippi.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Serving as the longest tenured Councilman in the history of the City of Jackson, I fulfill my role as Councilman of Ward Three as well as for the city of Jackson. As councilman of Ward Three, I have introduced and passed more legislations than any city councilperson in history of Jackson. I have honored heroes and heroines by naming streets, bridges, libraries, alley ways and parks for deserving citizens. I have continued to keep the dream of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. alive. I have kept the legacy of Medgar Evers, Charles Evers and the Evers family ever present. I have tried to honor the wishes of the mother of Emmett Till, Mamie Till-Mobley , to keep her baby’s memories alive. Finally, I have tried to honor the wishes of my grandmother, Mrs. Johnnie White; my mother, retired educator, Mrs. Josie Stokes; my wife, Judge Larita Cooper-Stokes, and my family members to always remember that God is good all the time!

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Much of my time is spent at events and services at various churches in Jackson.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Judge LaRita Cooper-Stokes, Dr. Keith Stokes (Melissa), Attorney Keisha Stokes Hough (Robert), Ms. Kenita Stokes, Robyn and Roman Hough, Mr. Charles Tisdale, Mrs. Alice Tisdale, Rev. P.J. Williams, Cornerstone Baptist Church Family, Attorney Bobby Stokes, Wilfred Stokes, Ray Stokes, Dr. Larry Flowers, Dr. Woodie Herron, Mrs. Ethel Mangum

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: I am uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council because my agenda is getting results for Ward 3 not for myself. I will be an effective council member because I will put the law, codes, and citizens first. I am going to work for and with all people. I will be dedicated to helping get policies passed that will help move this city forward. I will be
in the community, schools, local businesses ensuring that I find out what the needs are and they are met. I will be that voice of reason to remind other elected officials that we are not here for ourselves but we are here for the people of our communities making them feel safe and giving them a voice in an effective way. I will value every citizen vote, trust , contributions, comments, and concerns and act accordingly.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

1. Public safety: being competitive with pay looking at ways to hire and retain great officers and working on ways to make sure we are being efficient with the current budgets to eliminate waste where it’s identified.
2. Abandoned/Overgrown properties: will work closely with code enforcement on identifying these properties, and locating the owners. And that might be a process, but while that is going on, as a city we will clean up these properties and or tear down and billed that expenses back to the owners. But it will be some action so that we could start taking back our city one bite at a time.
3. Businesses: making laws on limited certain businesses in areas while promoting certain businesses to come into the area. We need more grocery stores, family restaurants, family entertainment, family recreation centers/fields to promote healthy eating lifestyles and exercise. But it’s time to put the dynamic back into family.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

The local city leaders should be given a fair opportunity to enact the changes needed for
their city. After this upcoming elections I feel that should be one of the priorities of the council and also mayor to get on one accord and come up with detailed plan that is back by data and not emotions or assumptions. Because we aren’t at a point now, where we need to be measuring twice and cutting that piece of wood right the first time. Ultimately when the power is taken out of the hands of the local city leaders of the city from things that directly impact the city.

It is only right and fair to allow the people that were voted in by the people of the city to make the best decisions for the people of the city. Who live, work, shop and pay taxes in this city I would propose to the leaders of the city revisit the most pressing challenges and work together to improve the highest priority challenge and continue to improve and sustain while moving the city forward. And sit down and work with state leaders, because it will take everyone to get the capital city back on track undoubtedly but it’s starts at home.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current relationship between the mayor and the city council members is one of division, lack of effective communication and trust. The main reason at some point was lost which is serving and being the voice of the citizens of Jackson whom elected them. The working relationship of the city leaders should be one where each person has the same goal of making our city thrive and work together to show trust in each other’s abilities to get the job done collectively. No differences whether it’s related to political parties, race should deter the overall goal of bettering Jackson for its citizens currently and for the future.

I’m not a Republican nor Democrat, I’m a Councilman for everyone. I would improve these things by treating my colleagues simply how I would want to be treated. With fairness and respect and Disagreements will happen, but how you handle those moments is upmost important. All working together, actively listening to one another, effectively communicating and then collaborating on a solution to best work for the city, and not all the bickering back and forth. One of my favorite bible verses is James 1:19-20 Be quick to listen, slow to speak, and slow to anger.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: The characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path is one that is centered around

1. The safety of all citizens with low crime rate

• where our citizens aren’t scared to simply go outside

2. Successful schools

• to prepare and provide the children/youth of this city with an quality education and to prepare them for college or trade school. Also beautifying our schools. I know we have older buildings but coming together as a community to make these schools a place where the students are proud to learn in.

3. Workforce training and development for residents that need and want it

• To help residents get better jobs skills so that they can provide more for their families and also so that we can attract various businesses to come back to the area because we now have a good qualified workforce.

4. Promote homeownership

• We have to get home ownership up in the city of Jackson. It tends to be better when you’re a homeowner and rooted in the community vs a renter or landlord. You’re more involved and vested in how your own property and community looks. I would start with community cleanups bringing volunteers together to clean, repair, and improve public spaces and other areas (such as vacant lots or abandoned properties) that have been neglected, vandalized, or misused all while going after those owners legally. And getting those properties developed with homes.

5. New Developments and Business

• I would work closely with economic development partners on seeing what properties are attractive for businesses and what we could do as a city to attract business or developers to the area.

6. Lastly I would have an open line of communication with any constituents in my ward or in the city if I could help. No matter if you’re a business or just a resident with an issue some might deem small. I will be the Councilman that will personally return each and every call in a timely manner. Because at the end of the day I would be working for you.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: These are things that are dear to me:

• Voter registration drives
• Working with the youth
• Working with the homeless
• Working with the elderly with transportation assistance and immediate needs.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Outside of home and work, I’m active with church, and a regular at the gym. You can also find me attending community meetings events and just patronizing different businesses to support local homegrown businesses, and supporting the youth whether it’s mentoring or coaching. And I plan to organize more groups and events with professionals around the city to be more active with the youth. That evolvement fosters empathy, builds a sense of community, develops leadership skills, enhances self-esteem, and provides opportunities for personal growth by exposing them to diverse perspectives and challenges, ultimately creating a more responsible and compassionate generation of future leaders within the city of Jackson.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Medgar Evers because of his role with civil rights fighting against segregation in education and voting rights.

Bob Moses for his work done during the civil rights movement here in Jackson and also with the Alegebra Project that was influential in so many ways in youth lives right here in Ward 3 and it actually grew my love of mathematics.

My Mother one of the most strongest, resilient, loving, turning the other cheek person that I know let along woman. And to all the single mothers and fathers despite whatever circumstances or hardships you’re facing, If you feel like you haven’t been heard or you don’t have a voice or no one cares. Please vote for Me on June 3rd. Because I do care and I will be your voice. I’m not a republican nor democrat I’m for everyone no matter what race.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: Besides being an incumbent Councilman, I have served on other municipal boards before being elected to this seat. I have served on the Planning Board and I have served on the Civil Service Commission. I am also a Certified Municipal Official-Advanced, which speaks to my preparedness to continue to lead not only Ward 4, but also the City of Jackson. CMO can take years to accomplish and I was able to do it before the end of my first term in office.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: As councilman, our primary duty is to make laws and manage the budget. My colleagues and I have delivered to the administration a very solid budget… one that we are proud of. I will continue to support our first responders, making sure they are funded to make sure they have the resources they need, continue to fund infrastructural improvements, continue to support Community Improvement to make sure we continue to tear down blighted properties and clean up our neighborhoods. Ward 4 has over 500 cases to be adjudicated in environmental court.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Charity begins at home. We must strengthen our own resources in these areas. Dirty politics in Mississippi has, for many years, infiltrated how we’re able to govern. The divestment in the Capital of Mississippi has been egregious, but we remain resilient. Jackson is not an island and we must continue to work with Federal and State leadership to garner resources to do the work. But those entities must also want to work with us. This is a weighted reality and we must strategize and build relationships necessary to capture every opportunity possible to grow.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Campaign rhetoric is dangerous. Of course they’re going to say that. The data is very clear. Crime is down. We have a well budgeted police and fire force. We have torn down many dilapidated properties. Because of virtual policing (Real Time Command Center), we have the top Law Enforcement Agency in the State. Even for me, I am helping to grow my ward and city… we have made great strides and I have a lot of projects still on the table.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: The Highway 18 Lighting Project! The Raymond Road Pedestrian/Bike Path and paving project (still in engineering).

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: My constituents are very engaged. Many times you’ll find me with an association or group… kicking back and bouncing ideas off of each other. I am also pro Jackson… so you’ll find me in a Jackson restaurant or shop talking to people.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My grandparents, Joe Dyson and Gloria Dyson (both deceased), my parents, Marvin Grizzell and Gloria Dyson Grizzell (both deceased), and my neighborhood associations (they rock).

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I worked for Hinds County Sheriff Dept., on my last assignment, I worked as a community service and crime prevention officer. I am now a Reserve Officer… I am fully aware of some of the problems we are facing here in Jackson.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

1. Illegal dumping… re-establish the Code enforcement department to aggressively monitor for dumping and prosecute violators
2. Crime Prevention… raise the salaries of the law enforcement officers, put the police chief under contract so one civilian won’t be his boss
3. Establish and monitor the city budget… to establish a surplus revenue… get all the employees job description and salaries to assure that we are not top heavy in the city

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Find out where our deficiencies are and correct them so that city doesn’t have to give up control.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current relationship is hostile and divided. We should look united and one unit. As a council member I would carry myself with dignity and respect and I would remind the other council members and the mayor’s office that when we are not united the city suffers. I will remind them daily that we are public servants, and we were elected by the people to serve the people and not our own agenda and not our egos.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: It would be clean, safe, and monitored and heavy police presence and good roads. The city of Jackson seems to be broke financially, I would reach out to the governor and federal government for funding to address those problems. I would also reach out to the neighboring mayors to develop a relationship with them.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I am a part of a Ministry Team the supports Jail, Nursing homes, and community.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Churches and Businesses

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Carlos Tanner; Tanner and Associates; Richard Bradley Sr and Jr, Andy Delaney, Steve Pickett, Tyree Jones and Ella “Ms. Mickie” May

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I’m a people person and would work hard to bring improvement to my ward and City.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. The homeless mentally ill population of the city of Jackson work with different organizations to find housing and medical care.
2. Lack of economic development and would work with JRA to bring new economic development to the city.
3. Enforcing the city code by hiring more gold enforcement officer in holding them accountable to their job

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: My first response would be is to try to work with the state to settle the differences. If that is not feasible the next step would be legal action with an attorney that knows the state well and that is attorney Jim Kitchen.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current relationship between the mayor and the city council is nothing but a bunch of kids on a playground. The relationship with the mayor and the council should be like a chairman of the board and its board members of a well Tuned fortune 500 company. the best way to improve it would be by taking the BS out of the city council chambers.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: The first thing you need to do to get this city on the right path is by cleaning it up and doing something with the homeless population then you can start working on the city economic development.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: My biggest civic accomplishment would be to bringing this city back to its glory of its heydays.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: By shopping and dining in the fine establishments of the city of Jackson.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: The late mayor Charles Evers I learned a lot of things from him

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I am committed to bringing the Best to West Jackson . I have outstanding leadership skills, I am apart of the foundation that makes up the history of the community. I am a historian who understands the unique characteristics that places Ward 5 in a lane of exclusivity. I have great research , writing, negotiation, socialization, communication, monitoring and supervising skills to implement , programs, procurements and policies as needed.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Implementing a State of Emergency plan to immediately fight the blight, stop the dump of trash and debris in our neighborhoods, clean up the trash, repair our roads, bridges, parks, and libraries.
2. Implement a plan of Action to address the homelessness and panhandling issues.
3. Immediately address the problem to fully fund the public school system, the police and fire departments.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: As a citizen I have followed these issues and as an elected official it is my fervent belief that I will have more inside information to analyze the same.

I will seek to provide a solution where the problem exists under the terms within the Cities jurisdiction. If the problem exists because of other sources I will support the City in being fully compensated.

The water issues appear to be the result of decades of neglect. The public school issues appears to be decades of defunding. The Airport issues appears to be a battle of Control.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I see what everyone sees. I want comment on my personal assessment. However, I know a change is needed and will come soon.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Jackson on the right path has characteristics of a vibrant community wherein, residential citizens feel safe, live with dignity, embrace the art of peace and harmony , become life learners.

The commercial citizens are free to grow and serve their constituents with passion and dignity.

Together we develop one major goal of universal understanding and respect.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Most recently I single handedly made the Election Commissioner rescind the mandate to relocate our voting precinct. I galvanized all the neighborhoods and voters of our precinct and worked through our County Supervisor to have our precinct location restored.

I am volunteering diligently to restore Opera South with the financial assistance to help sustain and restore their historical prominence.

I have founded The Jackson Business Association, Inc. This is a nonprofit organization of dedicated business and professionals in West Jackson, Ward 5.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Spend time mentoring at Blackburn Middle School.

I am active in my church, Pearl Street AME. I sing in the Women’s Choir and I participate in the Laura Felts Missionary Society.

I work on various committees with my sorority, Alpha Kappa Alpha, Beta Delta Onega Chapter.

At any day of the week you can find me on the various tennis courts in Jackson. I am an active tennis player. I play with the Jackson Ladies Tennis Association and the Mississippi Tennis Association. I volunteer and assist with the Junior Tennis in the summer.

I attend all of JSU home football games and several basketball games. I support JPS football games at Hughes-field. I attend Jim Hill basket games.

I attend all the exhibits at the Museum of Arts. I support the Smith Robert’s Museum.

I frequent the Wednesday lunch hour at the Civil Rights museum. I frequent the zoo, $2.00 Tuesday is favorite.

I am a weekly patron of Mr. Juice and Maxine’s Country Kitchen and Stamos Burger. I have to have my catfish plate every Saturday from either Valley Street or Country Fisherman on hwy 80, that’s the Delta girl in me. And a frequent stop by Taylor’s Candy to stock up on the old school candy favorites.

I attend the various performances at JSU, to include but not limited to, MADD Drama, Founders Day, invocation, Jazz and Blues on the Plaza

I support the live music at Dulling Hall. Martins and Hal and Mals. Monday night Blues Society and Tuesday night Jazz. My week cannot end without chips, salsa and blues at the Iron Horse Grill.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

I have so many favorite Jacksonians… I define favorite as one having special love and liking. I love all my neighbors (Mrs. Hatchard, Mrs. Otis, Mrs. Robinson, the Porters, The Pages, The Smiths, Dr. Harris, Dr. Benjamin and Bobby Rush).

I love my Church Family, Pearl Street AME, I love the preaching at New Horizon and Greater Bethlehem Temple, Mt. Nemo.

Coach TC , JSU Championship Coach, is truly a favorite, he speaks with such passion. Rob Jay is my all time favorite announcer. I wake up every morning to Percy Davis Morning Gospel Picks. Alice Tisdal is my favorite Editor.

The Sounds of the Sonic Boom energies me, my favorite song is played prior to a real tough tennis match.

Dr, Juanita Doty, Dr. Heather Denne, Dr Samual Boyd are my favorite visionaries.

Dr. Ivory Phillips, Dr. Charles Holmes, and Dr Corine Anderson are my favorite historians.

Dr Betty Coleman, Patty Patterson. Sheka Epps, Delores Lee, Della Archie and the principals at Jim Hill and Provine High School are my favorite Trail Blazers.

My Favorite stylist is Dr. Delores Stamps for her style and grace.

My friends Aretta K., Becky, Cuz Carmen, Debra, Geraldine, Jaqui, Katherine, Nadine and the late Mildred Kelley for their fashionable influence that inspires me everyday.

This is just a fraction of my list of favorite Jacksonians.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I am an experienced City Councilmember who serves as a servant-leader with a passion for strong neighborhoods. I bring to the position a wealth of experience in state and city government.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: I will vigorously pursue through council actions (fiscal and ordinance) to address the top four priorities of Ward 5. These priorities are needed to bring businesses into the ward and improve the quality of life for the citizens of Ward 5 and the City Jackson.
Main priorities include:

1. Infrastructure – potholes, clean route of ways, drainage issues, and street markings
2. Cleaning up waste – Litter, open dumps and tires
3. Crime – Funding JPD and Enforcement of City Ordinances
4. Code Enforcement – Cleaning overgrown vacant lots, and abandoned or burned-out houses

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: The most effective defense against any takeover attempts is the presence of strong, vibrant neighborhoods and a government that prioritizes integrity, transparency, and efficiency. I am dedicated to managing city affairs effectively, ensuring that there is no need for outside intervention.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current relationship between the mayor and council requires improvement. It should resemble a cohesive team approach with continuous communication of plans and goals within government leaders. The council can not a rubber stamp on taxpayer spending, particularly when the public questions the government’s ability to provide basic services. I would advocate for an all-day, monthly meeting between the mayor and city council to discuss future plans on issues affecting our city.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: The right path leads to is a city where the average citizen knows the future plans for addressing their concerns and issues facing our city. I believe that a mixture of (1) Input from the people and (2) transparency and constant information from city leaders is essential for a vibrant City of Jackson.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I have several accomplishments that I am proud of:

• I have had the honor of serving as the council representative for the 22,000 residents of Ward 5.
• I received the 2024 “Keepers of Jackson Award” from Keep Jackson Beautiful, in recognition of my personal clean-up efforts around the city, as well as my support for council initiatives aimed at making Jackson cleaner.
• I was selected to be the President of the Black Caucus of Local Elected Officials (MBC-LEO), where I assist in providing training and support to other elected leaders throughout the state in their leadership roles.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: City and Community events and functions. Eating at West Jackson eateries.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My favorite Jacksonians are the neighborhood leaders and association presidents. These unsung heroes work tirelessly to maintain the community’s quality of life, history, and heritage.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I have a strong record of working directly with residents, businesses, and organizations to create tangible solutions for our city’s challenges. My experience in marketing, community organizing, and economic development allows me to bring a fresh perspective to City Hall—one that prioritizes strategic planning, accountability, and innovative problem-solving.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Economic Development & Small Business Growth:

• Establish business incubators and grant programs to support local entrepreneurs, with a focus on minority-owned businesses and startups.
• Streamline business licensing and reduce bureaucratic red tape to make it easier for small businesses to launch and grow.
• Incentivize revitalization projects to attract investment and bring new opportunities to Ward 5.

2. Youth & Community Engagement:

• Expand after-school and mentorship programs by partnering with local organizations to provide structured, skill-building opportunities.
• Increase funding for parks, recreational spaces, and youth activities to ensure young people have safe, engaging spaces in their communities.
• Develop a citywide internship and apprenticeship program to connect youth with career pathways in trades, entrepreneurship, and public service.

3. Blight & Public Safety:

• Crackdown on abandoned properties and illegal dumping by enforcing stronger code compliance, penalties for neglectful property owners, and proactive cleanup efforts.
• Secure funding for revitalization and beautification projects, turning vacant lots into green spaces, community gardens, or business hubs.
• Strengthen community policing efforts by enhancing JPD’s presence in blighted areas, building trust, and reducing crime.

Advocate for workforce development programs and trade skills training to create job opportunities for youth, young adults, and career changers.

Partner with businesses, unions, and training programs to connect residents with high-demand, well-paying jobs.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Jackson’s challenges should be addressed through collaboration and support, not taken out of local hands. I firmly believe that our city must lead its future, but that doesn’t mean rejecting the support and resources that help us thrive. Instead of unnecessary state takeovers, we need strong partnerships with state agencies, federal programs, and other stakeholders to secure the assistance we need while keeping decision-making power in Jackson’s hands. As a council member, I will work to build productive relationships that will bring in resources, funding, and expertise—without compromising our city’s autonomy. Through transparency, efficiency, and leadership, we can make sure Jackson gets the support it deserves while staying in control of its future.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: A strong city government requires collaboration and communication. I believe in a solutions-first approach that prioritizes residents’ needs over political disagreements. As a council member, I will advocate for open dialogue that ensures every ward receives its fair share of resources and opportunities. By working together with transparency and accountability, we can build a stronger Jackson where every community thrives, and the city moves forward as a whole.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: A Jackson on the right path is one where businesses thrive, streets are safe and maintained, and residents feel empowered in their communities. We get there by restoring a sense of community and pride in Jackson—starting at the block level, growing through neighborhoods, and expanding across each ward to create a city united by progress. At the same time, we must ensure city services are effectively managed and delivered, providing the stability needed for lasting growth. By fostering this foundation, we generate the momentum that attracts new investments, drives development, and builds strong partnerships.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: One of my proudest civic accomplishments is organizing community events that bring resources directly to residents, from financial literacy workshops to youth mentorship programs. Through my work, I’ve helped local businesses grow, supported families in accessing vital services, and created opportunities for young people to succeed

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Besides home and work, I spend time at locally hosted events. Many individuals take the time to organize gatherings that build community among like-minded people. I have a passion for supporting those who take risks to provide value and create spaces for others to enjoy.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Dr. Hilliard L. Lackey

• His unwavering care for people and his commitment to helping others grow have deeply impacted me and many others. His guidance and leadership in our community have made a lasting difference.

Dr. Bill Cooley

• Known for empowering those who come behind him, Dr. Cooley has exemplified the power of humility in leadership. His ability to uplift others while maintaining his own quiet strength is something I greatly admire.

Mrs. Eva Jones

Eva’s dedication to her work in the field of domestic violence, sheltered communities, and women empowerment is unmatched. She gives tirelessly, with no hours off, committed to making a tangible difference in the lives of those in need.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: The following attributes make me uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council: the fact that I am honest, ethical, truthful, respectful and take responsibility for my actions… in a word, I exemplify “integrity”! I have the ability to communicate effectively, listen actively, and find common ground even when opinions differ. I also possess a skill set in the field of Cost Accounting.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: The major problems in the City of Jackson are:

1. Crime
2. Infrastructure (specifically potholes)
3. Blighted Properties.

Solutions:

1. To address the crime problem, I would support the implementation of thoroughly researched recommendations of the City’s Chief-of-Police, by voting in favor of proven methods to fight crime.
2. Implementing a proactive strategy will be required to resolve the pothole problem by investing in “preventative maintenance” and “citizen reporting mechanisms” (that will be responded to) in order to identify potholes quickly. I would strongly advocate that monies allocated for road repairs be used for that purpose.
3. Blighted Properties: I would propose that before any monies are paid out to owners, the City should require that the property be cleaned up.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: My philosophy regarding State takeovers is that any property paid for by taxes of its citizens belongs to the City of Jackson, and no other entity should be allowed to take control of it. I would support legal counsel on the matter.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: Currently, the Mayor and the City Council Members don’t appear to be abiding by the same rules. I will work as a member of the City Council to ensure that both are following the same rules.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: I think that the City Council and the Mayor should spend more time understanding each other’s position and find common ground even when opinions differ. What’s best for the City of Jackson should be their priority. A Jackson on the right path would evolve as a result of people making the right decisions beneficial for the City… less crime, improved infrastructure and no blight!

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Although I have had many accomplishments and times of leadership, such as the following civic affiliations: Georgetown Community Association, Brookwood Association, Jackson Medical Mall Community Advisory Board, APRI (A. Phillip Randolph Institute), NAACP, Jackson Municipal Airport Authority (appointed by the Mayor),..however, my biggest accomplishment has been working with the Lanier Jr/Sr High School National Alumni Association, where I was instrumental in assisting with Lanier being the first high school in the City of Jackson to have a car license plate which generates scholarship monies and funds to help support other school projects.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I spend my time attending various community meetings (City Hall, HOA, Police, etc.)… volunteering my services (Johnson Elementary School, Stewpot, Sanderson Farms Golf Tournament), Substitute Teaching at Lanier High School and attending Church every Sunday (King Solomon Baptist Church).

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My favorite Jacksonians are:

1. Medgar Evers, because he organized voter registration drives and recruited new members for the Civil Rights Movement.
2. William Winter, the former Democratic Governor of Mississippi, who fought for education reform, equal opportunity for all races, and better relations between the races.
3. Luther B. Buckley, who was the Principal of Lanier Jr/Sr High School from 1955-1987. He was a transformational leader whose organizational skills and clear communication of expectations left a long-lasting legacy on an entire Jackson Community! He was the type of leader who inspired greatness in his Students and Staff!

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I have been working for the city of Jackson for 25 years. I have a vision and passion for the city.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Improve Public Safety: Work to strengthen community-police relationships, increase neighborhood patrols, and implement programs to reduce crime and ensure safety for all residents.
2. Enhance Infrastructure: Advocate for repairing roads, improving drainage systems, and upgrading public facilities to create a more functional and attractive city.
3. Support Local Businesses: Develop initiatives to assist small businesses with resources, funding opportunities, and incentives to stimulate economic growth.
4. Invest in Youth Programs: Expand after-school programs, sports leagues, and mentorship opportunities to provide positive outlets for children and teens.
5. Tackle Affordable Housing: Push for policies that increase access to affordable housing and work to revitalize neglected neighborhoods.
6. Clean and Beautify the City: Organize community cleanups and promote efforts to reduce litter while enhancing parks and green spaces.
7. Increase Community Engagement: Host town halls and public forums to ensure residents’ voices are heard and their concerns are addressed.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: The first thing is I would address the citizen and get there concerns and issues. Then from there we will address and come to an agreement to get the business done. I would also have an open door policy with all parties.

I say a state takeover could be beneficial in some extreme situations where a district is severely underperforming and unable to make necessary changes on its own, but such interventions should be carefully designed and implemented with significant community input.

On the other hand l, if a takeover is not carefully considered, it could cause disruption amongst local elected officials because their control has been taken away, the community engagement may decrease, and you start receiving negative morale.

Got to know who is most important and who it will affect the most in each situation in the schools, the achievements of the students could drop with no improvements

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The first thing is separate personal feelings from business. Another thing is everyone need to work together and be on one accord.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: The first things is addressing the problem. Next is to come up with a solution and address it hands on.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: One of my biggest accomplishment is whatever I start and put my mind to it, I always finish strong.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I love spending my time with my family at our family home.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My favorite Jacksonians are all people who are looking forward to make Jackson great again

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I am running for Jackson City Council – Ward 6 because I have the experience, the passion, and the vision to bring real change to our community. My qualifications set me apart in three key ways:

1. Proven Leadership & Community Involvement
   I have spent years working directly with the people of Jackson—listening to concerns, solving problems, and advocating for real solutions. Whether it’s organizing community programs, working with local businesses, or pushing for better city services, I have always been on the front lines. I understand the struggles of our residents firsthand because I live them.
2. Experience in Policy & Problem-Solving
   I have worked in roles that required fiscal responsibility, decision-making, and collaboration with government officials to get things done. I know how city budgets work, how policies are made, and—most importantly—how to cut through the bureaucracy to deliver results.
3. A Track Record of Fighting for Jackson
   I have been an advocate for safer neighborhoods, stronger schools, and economic growth in Ward 6. I have worked with local organizations to provide resources for families, support youth programs, and bring investment into our district. I don’t just talk about change—I make it happen.

Why This Matters

The challenges in Jackson require more than just promises; they require real leadership. We need someone who will fight for better roads, safer streets, economic development, and government accountability.

I am uniquely qualified because I bring a deep love for this community, real experience in leadership, and a results-driven mindset that puts people over politics. I am ready to serve, and I ask for your support.

Together, we can build a stronger, safer, and more prosperous Ward 6.

I have the experience, the passion, and the vision to bring real change to our community. I have spent years working directly with the people of Jackson—listening to concerns, solving problems, and advocating for real solutions. Whether it’s organizing community programs, working with local businesses, or pushing for better city services, I have always been on the front lines. I have worked in roles that required fiscal responsibility and decision-making. I know how city budgets work, how policies are made, and — most importantly — how to cut through the bureaucracy to deliver results.

I have been an advocate for safer neighborhoods, stronger schools, and economic growth in Ward 6. I have worked with local organizations to provide resources for families, support youth programs, and bring investment into our district. I don’t just talk about change — I make it happen.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: As your Jackson City Council representative for Ward 6, I will take action on the most pressing issues facing our community. There are three concrete solutions I will push for through council action:

1. Infrastructure Improvement – Fixing Roads & Water Systems
   The Problem: Jackson’s roads are riddled with potholes, and our water system remains unreliable, with frequent boil-water notices and service failures.
   Solution: Secure dedicated infrastructure funding by advocating for state and federal grants to fix roads and improve drainage.
   Launch a “Pothole Repair & Street Resurfacing Initiative” that prioritizes high-traffic and neglected areas in Ward 6.
   Increase transparency & accountability by requiring the Public Works Department to publish repair schedules and progress updates.
   Council Action: I will propose legislation to establish a dedicated infrastructure task force that ensures funds are properly allocated and projects are completed on time.
2. Public Safety – Reducing Crime & Strengthening Community Policing
   The Problem: Rising crime rates have made many residents feel unsafe, and trust between the community and law enforcement needs rebuilding.
   Solution: Increase police presence in high-crime areas while also expanding community policing programs.
   Invest in youth outreach programs & violence prevention initiatives to keep at-risk youth off the streets. Improve street lighting & surveillance in key areas to deter crime.
   Council Action: I will propose a “Safe Streets Initiative” that includes funding for police patrols, better training for community-based policing, and partnerships with local organizations to provide job training and mentorship for at-risk youth.
3. Economic Development – Supporting Small Businesses & Job Creation
   The Problem: Small businesses in Jackson face high taxes, red tape, and a lack of investment, making it difficult to grow and create jobs.
   Solution: Cut red tape & simplify business permitting to make it easier for entrepreneurs to start and expand businesses.
   Offer tax incentives & grants to businesses that hire local residents and invest in Ward Launch a “Buy Local, Hire Local” campaign to encourage residents to support Jackson-based businesses.
   Council Action: I will introduce a Small Business Development & Incentives Act to reduce fees, create small business grants, and expand job training programs in partnership with local colleges and trade schools.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: State takeovers of local government functions are a serious issue in Jackson, and they raise critical questions about local control, accountability, and equity. While the state may argue that intervention is necessary due to mismanagement or crises, these takeovers often result in decisions being made without the input of the people who live here—and that is unacceptable.

I firmly believe that the people of Jackson should govern Jackson. Local leaders, elected by the residents of this city, should have the power and responsibility to solve our challenges—not outside politicians who may not understand or prioritize our community’s needs.
However, I also recognize that the state has resources and funding that could help address our city’s challenges. Collaboration, not takeover, should be the approach. The state should be a partner in strengthening our infrastructure, schools, and public safety—not an overseer stripping away local power.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: As city leaders, each body should understand who they represent and also who’s watching. Leaders should exemplify tact and great character at all times. The Mayor and City Council are two very important components of city government. Their ability to work together determines how much progress is made in our city. I do believe the relationship needs improvement and would work to be apart of the change necessary to see that happen. As strong leaders we have to understand that we are expected to reach compromise in areas of disagreement. With a better relationship between the two bodies of government I do believe the city with progress in great strides.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Some say Jackson is moving in the wrong direction. I say Jackson has the potential to rise, rebuild, and thrive — but only if we commit to real leadership, bold action, and a shared vision for progress.

• Safe Neighborhoods – Families can walk outside without fear, and businesses don’t have to worry about crime hurting their success.
• Reliable Infrastructure – Roads are well-maintained, the water system works, and residents receive the basic city services they pay for.
• Thriving Economy – Small businesses are growing, new companies are investing in Jackson, and residents have access to good-paying jobs.
• Strong Public Schools – Every child has access to a quality education, well-funded schools, and safe learning environments.
• Government Accountability – City leaders are transparent, responsive, and focused on serving the people — not politics.

How Do We Get There?

• Invest in Public Safety & Crime Prevention
• Strengthen community policing and increase law enforcement presence in high-crime areas.
• Expand youth programs, job training, and mentorship to reduce crime at its roots.
• Improve street lighting, surveillance, and neighborhood watch programs.
• Fix Our Infrastructure & City Services
• Secure state and federal infrastructure funding to repair roads, water systems, and drainage.
• Hold city agencies accountable for completing projects on time and within budget.
• Improve waste management, water quality, and emergency response services.
• Grow Jackson’s Economy & Create Jobs
• Cut red tape and simplify business regulations to attract investment and support local businesses.
• Expand small business grants and tax incentives for companies that hire locally.
• Partner with trade schools, colleges, and businesses to create workforce training programs.
• Strengthen Education & Support Families
• Advocate for fully funded public schools and teacher salary increases.
• Expand early childhood education programs and after-school activities.
• Improve partnerships between schools, businesses, and community organizations.
• Restore Trust in Government & Demand Accountability
• Increase transparency in budgeting and city contracts to prevent corruption and mismanagement.
• Improve communication between city officials and residents through public forums and digital updates.
• Ensure that taxpayer dollars are used efficiently and effectively

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: One of my biggest civic accomplishments as a leader was organizing a community clean-up and revitalization project in an underserved neighborhood.

Seeing that local parks and streets were littered and in disrepair, I gathered a group of young volunteers and partnered with local businesses and youth football teams to launch a campaign called “Pollution to Profit ” Over several weeks, we secured donations for supplies, raised awareness through social media, and coordinated cleanup events.

On the big day, more than 50 volunteers showed up to pick up trash, repaint public spaces, and restore a neglected areas. Beyond just beautifying the area, the project united the community and inspired local residents to take pride in their environment.

This experience taught me the power of youth leadership and grassroots action. Seeing the neighborhood transform and knowing we had made a lasting impact reinforced my passion for civic engagement.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I don’t spend much time out, but when I do give time to leisure activities I like to go to local gyms to play sports and many days mentoring youth in our community.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

My favorite Jacksonian is my mom. She had me at a young and never allowed her circumstance to keep her from being the best to me and giving her best to me. She’s a hard working woman. My first example of a hard worker and kind hearted person was my mom.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: Being in the community daily, serving just about every senior facility in the city of Jackson, being featured on Good Morning America advocating for Jackson’s water. Not being yes man. Standing on my own and not following the conventional. Also what qualifies me is that I carry my self with integrity and honesty inside the court house and outside of it as well. I am a man of the cloth and also a member of the Masonic chapter as well. So team work and spirituality sets me apart.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

1. Integrity be who you are in and out of the public eye in a positive way.
2. Honesty tell the truth even if it hurts.
3. Accountability holding your own with the decisions you make.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Head the issues off when they first come to surface instead of letting them fester until they become unmanageable. Also be able to talk those people in power and state your case about why you think Jackson is the best city and ran by the best leaders.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: It actually looks a bit tough. The back and forth and recent allegations have split the city down the middle. We need a group of people who can agree or agree to disagree without all of the rhetoric, name calling and theatrical nonsense. What I would do to improve it is simple. Give everyone one on one time with the mayor and current council so they can get to know each other and come to a common ground on how to better lead the city.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: For one I am bringing a brand new health care clinic to the Hwy 18 Walmart area. Which is creating jobs, revenue, and positive impacts on our communities. Once potential investors see that it’s a no brainer that Jackson is definitely open for business.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: My biggest civic accomplishment is being voted Jackson’s Hometown Hero and also being featured on GMA advocating for Jackson in a whole.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

Church, my community, cooking for many of the less fortunate around the city.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

Medgar Evers, Eva Mae Pittman, Yemi Kings, and Frank Melton…

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I’m a leader for all people, honest, protecting lives & property and fighting against crimes and to establish a better working relationship with the public, I care about the citizens of this City any country and I am also a strong believer in God, Law & Order, Justice, Liberty, and Equality for all

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

Crimes, Street, bring back business, bring police back in the neighborhood adding special Police officers looking out for neighborhood, Building the infrastructure to City, I will be supporting All first and these teens off the street during schools hour this is what I’m about

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

Right now state needs to be supporting water Stadium Jackson need the money, don’t need the state taking over the law enforcement, Jackson need to take the neighborhood back not the state, this City Job, and Hinds county sheriff department take care crime in the City as well

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: Taken care the City and the people, losing business bad street bad police departments bad county sheriff department bad housing run down losing the power over the water

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Don’t know right now because I’m on the outside right now

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Army, running for sheriff 1982 and 2019

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

Running my business

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My mother

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I bring Courage, Honesty, Integrity and Willingness to Listen. By Electing me, Antonio Porter as your Ward 6 Councilman, I pledge to work Diligently and Respectfully with All Council Members to Improve Every aspect of Ward 6 and the City of Jackson.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. The reduction crime by making sure Officer’s (JPD) is being visible throughout Ward 6. This will give Ward 6 citizens a since of security and with improve security you will have more business to enter into the City of Jackson.
2. Streets and Infrastructure improvements by discontinuing the board that decide on streets to be done, because it takes to long for a decision to be made and the Council Members can do these decision on our own because we drive down the same streets ourselves.
3. Bring unity to the Council Members so that we can get the business of City of Jackson done.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

As part of a team for the City of Jackson, in order to off set any area of takeover, we would have to make sure that all protocols are being followed. I would work diligently with the City of Jackson Mayor to make sure all state laws are being followed and see what if anything can be done. Now we have to understand that some of these issues deal with the legislators who decide new law’s, which decides takeover attempts. But I hope that all Council will have a great relationship with our State Legislators and U.S. Legislators.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current relationship between the mayor and council members is not the best. The relationship should be somewhat close knit and understand that “WE” are here to serve the “PEOPLE,” and not self. Being a people person, I would create a positive relationship with each Council Member.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

Characteristics of a Jackson on the right path, would be Council Members that have Courage, Honesty, Integrity and Willingness to Listen to the people and how we get it there is by Council Member being about the City Business (do your JOB).

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: During my employment, being in the position I was in I stopped multiple times upper management from terminating individuals.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I’m throughout the City of Jackson, because I’m out helping people constantly. So constantly you may see me at the store or doctor office because I’m always assisting someone.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

My Heart is: My Son – Christopher and Daughter – Arielle
my three grandchildren

My Mother: Ms. Frankie A. Davis

My Godmother: Mrs. Ella Cavett

My Best Friend and Brother: Mr. Steven Sanders

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I have worked at the community based and grassroots level to work with different entities across the spectrum. This has allowed me to hear from a diversity of voices and perspectives at all levels. And the experience that many people are having in Ward 6, I have and, in some ways, are still experiencing them now. Whether it be lack of access to grocery stores or broken traffic and streetlights or any investments in Ward 6, we all are experiencing this together. This is real life for me.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: One of our needs is to clean up and beautify our communities. I am open to assessing our code enforcement standards and exploring ways to improve our communities. Secondly, we have a lot of community-based work happening but there seems to be a lack of collaboration. I would work with other members of the council to identify nonprofits in our wards and build out a database of resources and ask that these organizations would work with the incoming administration and the council to address problems throughout our communities. Lastly, there is a feeling of hopelessness that is strong in Ward 6. I would work with the council to reinstate youth, seniors and family programs throughout the city and identify funding, either private or public, to address these issues. I also think that it is important to think creatively about how we can meet the needs that people have in our communities

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I understand that there are quite a few questions marks around the state’s involvement in our city. They are legitimate but I think it is important for me, if elected, to operate within my responsibilities. I think any issue in our city will require a united effort at the city, county and state level. I want to explore all options to get things done on behalf of constituents in Ward 6.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I will say that it is important for the council to have a solid working relationship with the mayor. I will intentionally engage in building relationships with other council members and the mayor to understand their priorities and share mine. We won’t always agree but I will work to maintain mutual respect for my colleagues.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: A thriving Jackson is a place that, no matter where you live in our city, you have access to all that you need. Young people have spaces where they can learn and grow. Seniors feel safe and families are thriving. A place where unhoused individuals’ lives are changed and stabilized. A Jackson where we are improving our people’s quality of life. And I think it starts with dignifying our people and reminding them of their value. Many people in our communities don’t feel seen or heard. And many don’t believe that they can be part of the solution. But I believe that the change in Jackson starts with the people believing that we can change our city together.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I think when I got the opportunity to help First Presbyterian Church Jackson organized their annual service day and seeing hundreds of their members serve throughout our city and communities. It was a lot of work and coordination, and we got it done. I’ve gotten the opportunity to do this several times with folks across our city and the metro area and it has been an honor.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I spend time at my church, CityHeart Church, on walking trails with my wife and dog and eating at places ranging from Fish Supreme and Angry Rooster’s to Aplo’s and Tuk Tuk Boom.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My grandmother, Rubye Forrest Mickel. Throughout her life, she has been an advocate for people and communities that she was a part of. Her commitment influenced my drive towards public service. Love you Granny!

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I have served the community for over 20 years. I currently serve as HOA President for Brookleigh Homeowners Association in South Jackson for 8 years. I currently serve on the City of Jackson Planning Board for the past 6 years. I have served on various community boards and on the board of several community Nonprofit Organizations. Etc.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: I would make sure our panhandling ordinances, and illegal dumping ordinances are enforced by working with our police departments and hold them accountable for not enforcing the ordinances. I will make sure that businesses and citizens who own blighted properties are properly fined and held accountable for not cleaning up their abandoned properties. I will ensure that nonprofit organizations who serve our homeless population are properly serving their needs by advocating for them and finding financial resources to assist with taking care of their needs. I will work with the mayor and the public works department to make sure our infrastructure needs are addressed.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I don’t agree with state takeovers and would do my part to make sure that our systems and public responsibilities are corrected and brought into compliance.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

I despise the relationships between the mayor and the city council. I feel that if they would stop fighting among themselves and remember why they are voted into office, and that is to serve and put our constituents first, we would be a better city. My goal is to keep a good working relationship with the mayor, his staff and other council members to ensure progress in our city. I plan to advocate to make sure that we have a good working relationship with the county, other local municipalities, with the state and federal government. We can’t get much done if we don’t respect each other and work together to take care of the needs of our constituents.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: First of all, we must work together and use all of our resources to address the issues that we are facing in our city. I think we should research solutions other cities have used to correct their issues. Sometimes we don’t have to reinvent the wheel. We must commit to learning from others and look outside our city government to find solutions to our existing problems. I also think that all council members should assist other wards and share information to help each other and to help our city grow collectively. I think that we must sometimes agree to disagree so that we can continue to move our city forward.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I have worked with our public school system in various positions to promote support and the well being of our students, by serving as President of the PTSA’s, booster clubs and providing ongoing support for our teachers. I am currently the Homeowner Association President for my community of 450 + homes. I have served for 8 years. I have increased our paid memberships from 32 to 250 + homes. I have worked extensively as a board member with community nonprofits such as ASJN – The Association of South Jackson Neighborhoods, JAN- The Jackson Association of Neighborhoods and with JRC – Jackson Resource Center. I also represent Ward 6 by serving as a board member on the City of Jackson Planning Board.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

Church and fishing at the Ross Barnett Reservoir and other local fishing spots.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

Mr. Frank Figgers, Jackson Public School Board Member. Chokwe Lumumba, Sr., Medgar Evers, Bishop Phillip Coleman, and Pastor Ronnie Crudup, Sr.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: What makes me uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council is that I am not a politician—I am a problem solver. As an Engineer, Water Treatment and Environmental Specialist, OSHA-certified professional, and infrastructure expert, I bring real, hands-on experience to the table, not just rhetoric. I have a proven track record of leadership and results. I played a key role in securing a $10 million grant for the city’s water system and helped author a grant for a city (outside Jackson) to obtain a new fire truck, ensuring their community met service standards. Unlike my opponents, I fully understand Jackson’s water and infrastructure systems and know exactly how to secure the funding needed for real solutions. I don’t just talk about fixing problems—I have real, developed plans ready to restore Ward 6 and South Jackson.

Beyond infrastructure, I am committed to economic growth and investing in the next generation. While at Entergy, I created the co-op/internship program and hired 21 interns from Alcorn State University and Jackson State University, giving students real-world experience and career opportunities.

Additionally, as the former president of the coalition of businesses at the JSU e-Center, a small business incubator, I have personally helped over 12 businesses launch—more than half of which have grown into six- and seven-figure companies. I bring the expertise, leadership, and vision needed to move Jackson forward.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Fixing the Water and Infrastructure Crisis
   How:
   I will push for greater accountability and transparency in infrastructure spending to ensure funds go toward real repairs and upgrades.
   I will use my expertise to identify and secure state and federal grants—just as I helped secure a $10 million grant for the city’s water system in the past.
   I will work to create a local workforce development program to train and hire Jackson residents for infrastructure repair jobs, keeping resources in our community.
2. Supporting Small Businesses and Economic Growth
   How:
   I will advocate for small business grants and low-interest loan programs to help struggling businesses stay open and expand.
   I will work to establish business incubators and mentorship programs, similar to my work at the JSU e-Center, where I helped over 12 businesses launch—many growing into six- and seven-figure companies.
   I will fight for zoning and tax incentives to encourage investment in Ward 6 and South Jackson, attracting new businesses and revitalizing our economy.
3. Improving Public Safety and City Services
   How:
   I will work to increase funding for law enforcement recruitment and community policing initiatives to improve safety while fostering trust between officers and residents.
   I will push for better oversight and efficiency in basic city services, ensuring garbage collection, road repairs, and drainage issues are addressed promptly.
   I will advocate for real solutions to homelessness, such as public-private partnerships to create housing and job training programs rather than just temporary fixes.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I believe in a government for the people, by the people—one that is built on the voices, needs, and decisions of the community it serves. Jackson belongs to its residents, and our future should be shaped by those who live, work, and invest here—not by outside politicians who do not answer to the people of this city.

State takeovers undermine democracy by stripping away local control and silencing the very people who are most impacted by these decisions. When the state seizes our airport, our water system, our public schools, or our criminal courts, it does not do so to help us—it does so to control our tax base, redirect our resources, and take away our ability to determine our own future. That is not governance. That is exploitation.

The state should not be in the business of taking over Jackson—it should be in the business of partnering with us. If state leaders truly want to see Jackson thrive, they should invest in our city, work with our local government, and provide funding without strings attached. A takeover is not a solution; it is an attempt to override the will of the people under the false pretense of “helping.”

• Just as I helped secure a $10 million grant for Jackson’s water system, I will actively pursue federal funding and public-private partnerships to strengthen our infrastructure and public services—making state intervention unnecessary.
• Advocate for economic policies that build Jackson’s financial independence, ensuring our tax dollars are used for our city’s needs and not controlled by the state.
• Hold the State Accountable for Its Role in Jackson’s Challenges
• Demand that if the state wants to step in, it should provide real resources, not control—ensuring investments actually benefit Jackson residents.
• Work to mobilize the community and other city leaders to push back against any actions that strip Jackson of its rightful authority and assets.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: A Jackson on the right path is a city where:
• Basic Services Work Reliably – Clean water flows from every tap, garbage is collected on time, roads are maintained, and infrastructure is no longer a crisis.
• Public Safety is Restored – Crime is reduced through better law enforcement strategies, community policing, and youth intervention programs.
• Economic Growth is Thriving – Small businesses are supported, jobs are created, and new industries are attracted through incentives and investment.
• Local Government Works for the People – Leaders prioritize progress over politics, working together to solve problems rather than creating gridlock.
• Neighborhoods are Revitalized – Blighted properties are transformed into thriving businesses, parks, and community spaces, creating a city people are proud to call home.

How I Would Get Jackson on the Right Path

1. Fix Infrastructure & Basic Services
   Use my water treatment and infrastructure expertise to secure grants and funding for long-term fixes.
   Advocate for better project management and accountability to ensure taxpayer money is spent efficiently.
2. Strengthen Public Safety & Community Engagement
   Push for community policing initiatives to rebuild trust between law enforcement and residents.
   Work with state and federal partners to secure funding for crime prevention programs and officer recruitment.
3. Drive Economic Development & Small Business Growth
   Expand business incubator programs to help startups succeed, just as I did at the JSU e-Center.
   Support grants and tax incentives for businesses to invest in Ward 6 and South Jackson.
4. End Political Dysfunction & Focus on Solutions
   Push for regular, structured communication between the mayor and council to resolve disagreements before they harm residents.
   Focus on practical, results-driven leadership rather than personal or political battles.
5. Revitalize Neighborhoods & Address Blight
   Promote demolition contracts for local small businesses to remove abandoned buildings.
   Support repurposing spaces for business incubators, parks, and job training centers.

By focusing on real solutions instead of empty rhetoric, I will work to restore Jackson’s strength, stability, and prosperity.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

Right now, the relationship between the mayor and city council is dysfunctional and counterproductive—and the biggest losers in this ongoing battle are the people of Jackson. Disagreements are a natural part of governance, but when personal conflicts override progress, essential city services—like garbage collection—get caught in the crossfire. This kind of gridlock only deepens the challenges our city already faces.

How That Relationship Should Look:

The relationship between the mayor and city council should be based on mutual respect, collaboration, and a shared commitment to serving the people. We may not always agree, but we should be able to disagree without dysfunction. The mayor and council must communicate openly, negotiate in good faith, and put the needs of Jackson’s residents above personal or political disputes.

What I Would Do to Improve It

1. Bring Professionalism and Accountability Back to City Hall
   – Focus on facts, not politics—using my expertise in infrastructure and problem-solving to present clear, data-driven solutions instead of engaging in unnecessary disputes.
2. Improve Communication and Negotiation
   – Push for regular strategy meetings between the mayor and council to address major issues before they escalate into public battles.
   – Ensure that decisions are made transparently, with community input, so residents are not caught in the middle of political fights.
3. Prioritize Solutions Over Politics
   – Focus on common ground and practical compromises that serve the best interests of Jackson—not personal agendas.
   – Advocate for a more structured decision-making process that ensures critical services, like garbage collection, are never held hostage by political disagreements.

Ultimately, I would work to restore trust, encourage teamwork, and shift the focus back to delivering real results for Jackson’s residents.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: One of my proudest civic accomplishments is my work in securing funding and resources to improve critical infrastructure—particularly in Jackson’s water system. As an engineer and infrastructure expert, I played a key role in helping to generate a $10 million grant to address the city’s water crisis, ensuring safer and more reliable access to clean water for residents. Unlike many politicians, I understand the technical and financial aspects of securing infrastructure funding, and I’ve used that knowledge to bring real solutions to our city.

Beyond infrastructure, I have made a lasting impact on economic empowerment and workforce development. As the past president of the business coalition at the JSU e-Center, I have personally helped over a dozen small businesses launch and thrive, with many growing into six- and seven-figure enterprises. These businesses have created jobs, strengthened our local economy, and empowered entrepreneurs—proving that with the right support, Jackson’s businesses can flourish.

Additionally, while working at Entergy, I created a co-op and internship program that provided 21 students from Alcorn State University and Jackson State University with hands-on industry experience, opening doors for young professionals and helping develop the next generation of leaders in our community.

Lastly, my service in the Air Force National Guard reinforced my commitment to leadership, discipline, and problem-solving—qualities that I have carried into every aspect of my public service. Whether it’s securing resources for infrastructure, supporting small businesses, mentoring young professionals, or standing up for the needs of our community, my mission has always been to serve and uplift Jackson.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Beyond my home and work, I spend much of my time serving in the community—whether it’s through my church, outreach programs, or educational initiatives. I believe a thriving community is built on service, education, and empowerment, and I actively engage in spaces where I can make a real difference.
• Faith & Service: My church is not just a place of worship—it’s a hub for community engagement. Through church-led initiatives, I help distribute food to the homeless, ensuring that those in need are not forgotten.
• Public Health & Safety Education: I dedicate time to teaching home health and safety tips, such as mold prevention, chemical safety, and water quality awareness, so that families can protect themselves and their homes.
• Environmental Stewardship: I work directly with farmers and local businesses to ensure the proper disposal of hazardous materials, helping to protect our environment and public health.
For me, Jackson’s third spaces are places where people come together to uplift, educate, and support one another. Whether it’s at a church, a community center, a farm, or an outreach event, I am always looking for ways to serve, teach, and create positive change.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Jackson has been home to many incredible individuals who have shaped our city, our state, and even our nation. Among my favorites:

My Church Community Leaders – While not always in history books, the pastors, deacons, and elders in Jackson have been the backbone of our neighborhoods, providing spiritual and social guidance. Their work feeding the hungry, mentoring youth, and keeping hope alive is just as important as any political or historical figure.

Acey Walker (My Uncle) – A man of faith, leadership, and resilience. As a Superintendent in the Church of God in Christ, he was a guiding force in the community, offering spiritual leadership and mentorship. He also worked tirelessly in the restaurant industry, and after his retirement, he witnessed firsthand the struggles of small businesses in Jackson—many of which, like his former workplace, were forced to shut down. His legacy reminds me of the importance of economic development and community support to keep our city thriving.

Medgar Evers – A fearless civil rights activist who gave his life fighting for justice and equality. His unwavering commitment to dismantling segregation and securing voting rights continues to inspire generations.

Fannie Lou Hamer – Though born in Montgomery County, her activism in Jackson as a civil rights leader and voting rights advocate played a pivotal role in shaping the fight for equality in Mississippi.

David Banner – A Jackson native and hip-hop artist who uses his platform to uplift the Black community and advocate for economic empowerment and social justice.

Jackson has produced activists, artists, faith leaders, and community builders who have all left their mark. These individuals, both well-known and deeply personal to me, embody strength, resilience, and a love for this city that drives me forward.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I expect to be one of the youngest candidates for council in this election cycle. Because of my age I believe that my perspective and experience growing up and working in Jackson over the past several decades is completely different from my fellow candidates. I grew up only hearing and seeing negative narratives that surround our city, and I have spent most of my life fighting against them. My generation is currently being watched to see how we will get involved and improve the world around us; I believe that I can help make the changes Jackson needs by serving on our city council. We need younger voices represented in our local and state government to accurately reflect the change needed in our city. To keep younger residents in Jackson we have to have a government that works for them.

I have spent the past two years working directly for the city of Jackson, and this also contributes to my qualifications. I have seen firsthand the changes that need to be made internally within the city, and have had time to work directly with our local community and hear how our government can better serve those who call Jackson home.

I’ve always believed that action speaks louder than words, and my work at the city revitalizing buildings and cultural centers can attest to this. Through this work, I have learned to navigate city resources, bring people from across Jackson together, and turn challenges into opportunities. Now, I want to bring those same skills in hands-on leadership to Jackson’s city council. Jackson needs new leaders who have a proven track record of making solutions to the city’s problems a reality. I am ready to work hard for a future that sees Jackson reach its full potential.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: First, city building maintenance is a major issue we are facing. Having worked for the city, I have learned just how many buildings the city owns, leases, or has access to, and many of these spaces are in poor condition. I am eager to work with our budget to see what grant opportunities and options we have to set up sustainable methods to maintain our infrastructure. For example, I want to work with our departments to see which facilities, such as Thalia Mara Hall, would benefit from fundraising efforts to set up permanent endowments supported by the Council to ensure their success going forward. To that end, my goal is to review all city-owned property in Ward 7 to see how we can ensure the future of these buildings and make them accessible to the residents of our district. A detailed review of assets will set the city up for a sustainable future where physical infrastructure is able to support our economic growth.

Second, a simple but major issue with our current government is the lack of transparency/accessibility between our elected officials and those they represent. I want to dedicate time to making sure your voices are heard through regular forums that I would hold at local businesses and organizations in our Ward. I believe the city owes you a better and more direct line of communication to ensure your needs are being met. We owe it to our residents to communicate truthfully and accessibly about what is happening in their city government as we attempt to leverage whatever resources we have available towards common goals. Consistent forums for feedback will solve existing issues of accountability so that we can move towards a model of shared governance that will promote the city’s growth.

Finally, we need to continue the work being done by the city to bring business and economic development back to downtown Jackson. To make this happen we need to make sure our downtown feels safe and inviting to anyone wanting to visit. I want to review what incentives and opportunities we have to encourage businesses to make Jackson their home.

As a member of the city council, I will push for increased strategic economic incentives that encourage businesses to establish roots in Jackson, making our downtown a true hub for commerce, arts, and culture. We must also invest in city-supported events, parades, and cultural programming to energize our streets and bring people back downtown. Through targeted investment and a strong network of partnerships, we can create a downtown that is not only economically strong but a destination that represents the best of Jackson.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Ultimately, Jackson, as the capital city of our state, needs to be trusted to manage its own resources without state intervention. While I would be receptive to receiving genuine support from our state government to improve our city, I am completely against any aggravated and overreaching takeovers. Time and again, we have seen that when Jackson has sought assistance, the state has refused (for example, vetoing funds for our planetarium and the LeFleur’s Bluff project), yet it has been all too eager to directly take over many essential resources and facilities in our city. A pattern of neglect followed by overreach is unacceptable.

It is obvious that our city is in need of major improvements, but direct and nonconsenting takeovers from our state government are not the answer. Ward 7 is the home of many major city facilities including the municipal airport, several stadiums, cultural institutions such as Thalia Mara, as well as water facilities for the city. The city of Jackson should maintain authority over its facilities, and any involvement from the state should be supportive and not incentivize displacement.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The recent relationship between city council and the mayor is strained and contentious. For our government to work and serve the people of Jackson, this cannot continue. I am committed to joining the council with the goal of working collaboratively with my fellow councilors and the mayor to make sure we are best serving our community.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: One area in which I have noticed Jackson’s growth is in arts and culture. We currently have a thriving cohort of young and experienced artists, musicians, dancers, and activists, all working to improve this city. Support for these areas has a demonstrated impact on economic growth, and so it is essential that this is supported by the city.

I believe a Jackson that is on the right path is one that returns to prioritizing education and begins to offer more opportunities and avenues for our younger generations to continue to grow, learn, work, and thrive in our city. We are quickly losing many of our talented young people in this city, a phenomenon that has been known as brain drain. We need to do everything we can to give our younger generation the opportunities they need to stay and help our city grow.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I believe my biggest civic accomplishment has been the initial revitalization of our City’s support of its local artists. In my time as the Arts Center manager I have created sustainable programs and competitive opportunities to utilize our space for artists to exhibit and for the community to gather. One key point of pride is the revitalization of the Municipal Art Gallery; what was once on the brink of becoming a derelict building is now a dynamic and functional gallery.

This same transformation has occurred under my leadership of the Mississippi Arts Center, which now hosts a wide range of artistic events. As the manager of these spaces, I have facilitated all aspects of their renewal, from infrastructure improvements to community engagement and programming, ensuring that the arts remain a vital part of our city’s cultural landscape and legacy.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: My favorite thing to do in this city is to go to any of our incredible restaurants and local businesses. I love to visit Urban Foxes in Belhaven, the Mississippi Museum of Art downtown, and the Apothecary in Fondren, to name only a few. I also enjoy finding exciting events that support local artists and vendors: I especially have enjoyed Alexis Noble’s work creating space with her MASH-UP events. I would love to see more festivals like pickle fest, capital city lights, and Capital City Pride in our district as well; working with these kinds of organizations is a huge priority for me.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Gwendolyn Magee, a Jackson transplant, is someone I have always looked up to. She moved here with her husband in the 70s and her work as a textile artist making quilts has always inspired me. Her quilt, Our New Day Begun, among others was on view at MMA for years and is still one of my favorite pieces of art. I also have to shout out Monica Hill and Merry Barnes; I have worked with both of them at the City and at MMA (respectively) and their work as artists and community builders as lifelong Jacksonians has really inspired me to stay involved in our city and to keep doing more. And of course my little siblings, Harrison and McNeil, are always at the top of my list of favorite people!

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: As a teacher and school administrator, I have worked across lines of difference with diverse individuals all over the city. I have seen the beauty and the challenges of every corner in Jackson. This has equipped me to serve the whole ward and help push our city forward. Serving as a principal has given me the administrative leadership, the budget management skills, and problem-solving finesse necessary to serve on City Council.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Get basic city services working again. Jacksonians deserve for city lights to be repaired, 311 systems to be consistently operational, and code enforcement to be enacted.
2. Tackle the blight in our city. Vacant houses attract crime, hurt nearby property values, and discourage development. We should fast track demolition of blighted buildings and work with private sector developers and prospective homeowners to restore these neighborhoods.
3. Make doing business in Jackson easier. We need to streamline processes and paperwork, ensure our regulations are sensible, and ensure the voices of business leaders are present in all policy decisions.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Jackson needs as much help as it can get and I welcome assistance from federal, state, and regional partnerships that advance our city. And I also believe that government works best when local governments control basic local services. But most of all, I care about serving the citizens of Jackson and I will always ask this simple question: Which option is more likely to improve the situation quicker and better in the long run?

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current relationship between the Mayor and City Council is dysfunctional. The Mayor’s job is to run the day-to-day operations of the city and be transparent with the City Council about the progress made. The City Council’s job is to hold the Mayor accountable. The Council sets the budget and passes ordinances, and we should use our Council meetings to insist on timely, accurate reports from the Mayor. We should work alongside the Mayor to advance the city, but we cannot be a rubber stamp.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: There is already so much that makes Jackson special, and there is nowhere else I would want to live. At the same time, Jacksonians are facing real challenges that must be urgently addressed. We’ll know that we’re on the right path when city services work reliably (regular garbage collection, safe drinking water, quick pothole repairs, and enough police patrolling our neighborhoods). To do so, we need to elect a City Council that insists on transparency and holds the Mayor accountable for the day-to-day running of the city government. Let’s govern with respect, partner together, and put the people of Jackson first.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I am proud of the work I did as the principal of a public school in Jackson. The school I led was incredibly important to the Midtown neighborhood. It was on the verge of closure when I became the principal, and I partnered with the staff, students, parents, board, and supporters, and together we were able to turn the school around.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I enjoy running, so I spend a lot of time on the streets and trails of Jackson. During bad weather, I am a regular at Fondren Fitness. My family worships at St. James’ Episcopal Church, so on Sundays and Wednesday nights, you will find us there. I also love food, so we regularly hunt the Jackson Foodies Facebook group and seek out new eateries. We are members of the Mississippi Children’s Museum, the Mississippi Museum of Natural Science, and the Mississippi Museum of Art. Finally, Jackson throws the best special events, so spaces like the Mississippi Book Festival and Dîner en Blanc are high on our family’s list.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

Medgar Evers. He honorably served his country and returned to Jackson to make sure that everyone could live the American dream. He gave his life in the struggle for voting rights, civil rights, and economic opportunity.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I am uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council because of my deep-rooted connection to the city, extensive professional experience, and unwavering commitment to public service. As a sixth-generation Jacksonian with a maternal lineage tracing back to the Mississippi Choctaw, whose family lived in Mississippi long before its discovery, my understanding of Jackson’s strengths and challenges is both deeply personal and generational. Growing up as the son of a hardworking teenage single mother who refused to let her circumstances define her future, I learned the values of perseverance, community, and the importance of advocating for meaningful change.

Professionally, I bring over 13 years of experience in workforce management, customer experience, finance, and nonprofit leadership. In these roles, I have managed high-volume operations, developed solutions to complex challenges, and saved organizations significant resources through process improvements. My expertise in data analysis, resource management, and values-driven leadership equips me to address Jackson’s challenges with practical, results-oriented solutions.

For over 15 years, I have been a consistent advocate for reforming Jackson’s governance structure to better serve its residents. My journey began when I was selected to participate in Youth Leadership Jackson, under the guidance of Ms. Shirley Tucker and the parent organization, Leadership Jackson. Witnessing the city’s stagnation, population decline, and dysfunctional governance inspired my dedication to reform. I have passionately championed the transition from a mayor-council system to a council-manager system, emphasizing the need for experienced, merit-based leadership to guide our city toward a brighter future.

I am not a politician seeking popularity but a servant leader grounded in traditional Christian values and the Apostolic Faith. My mission is to bridge divides, listen to all voices, and champion policies that will uplift every corner of Ward 7 and beyond. My campaign is founded on a simple yet profound principle: PUT JACKSON FIRST. With this focus, I am committed to restoring accountability, fostering long-term economic growth, and ensuring that Jackson reaches its full potential.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: The work I’m proposing goes far beyond just three isolated solutions—it represents a comprehensive approach to reshaping Jackson for the long-term benefit of its residents. This is about fundamental change that will rebuild the city’s foundation, address systemic inefficiencies, and improve the quality of life for everyone. The comprehensive audit of city government is necessary to root out waste and inefficiency, ensuring that every dollar spent is working for the people of Jackson. The right-sizing of city government will ensure that we have a lean, effective structure, providing residents with the services they need without unnecessary burdens.

The focus on eliminating blight and improving neighborhoods is not just about aesthetics; it’s about public health, safety, and economic growth. These are issues that affect every resident and every business in Jackson. By working to clean up blighted areas, particularly in South Jackson and along Terry Road, we are not only improving the physical environment but also sending a message that we care about the communities that have been neglected for far too long. Holding absentee landlords and slum property owners accountable is about ensuring justice and equity for residents who deserve safe, healthy living conditions.

Making it easier for businesses to thrive in Jackson is about creating an environment where opportunities are abundant and where economic growth can be sustained. This work is about more than reducing red tape; it’s about empowering entrepreneurs and ensuring that Jackson’s economy is built on a solid, forward-thinking foundation.

Finally, addressing our city’s environmental concerns and homelessness crisis is about preserving the integrity of our public spaces and addressing one of the most pressing social issues in our community today. By tackling waste disposal, cleaning up our creeks, and providing support for homeless individuals and those with mental health issues, we are ensuring that our city remains clean, safe, and compassionate.

This work is not just about providing solutions; it’s about fundamentally transforming the way Jackson operates and the way we take care of each other. These actions are crucial for creating a city that works for everyone, where safety, prosperity, and dignity are the foundations of our future. It’s about putting Jackson first and ensuring that our city is positioned to thrive for generations to come.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: State takeovers of Jackson’s assets are not a result of the state’s desire for control but rather a direct consequence of decades of neglect and mismanagement at the local level. The reality is that Jackson has endured more than 40 years of broken promises, leadership instability, and a lack of accountability. From utility failures to a failing school district, the city has been left behind due to consistent mismanagement by multiple administrations, each contributing to the city’s decline. The water system, public schools, and the Jackson International Airport all serve as examples of long-standing issues that have been poorly addressed by local leadership.

Jackson has been led by more than five mayors in the past 20 years, yet the problems persist. We’ve seen intentional sabotage of our public institutions and a justice system in Hinds County that has been in disrepair for over 30 years. Jackson is plagued by the rise of “wokeness,” and there’s a growing disconnect between the local leadership and the everyday challenges faced by Jacksonians. Rather than focusing on competence, proven leadership, and pragmatic solutions, the focus has shifted toward division, political battles, and identity politics.

Our local political environment, where too much attention is paid to virtue signaling and not enough to practical solutions, has contributed to the loss of our assets. The current system is self-serving, with too many nonprofits and interest groups putting their needs ahead of the real needs of the people. Jacksonians deserve leaders who are committed to making real, lasting change—not those who are content with maintaining the status quo and putting their own agendas first.

In response to state takeover efforts, my stance is clear: while the state’s intervention may be necessary, it’s a reflection of our own failure to act in the best interests of the city. It’s past time to acknowledge that the systemic issues within Jackson’s governance must be addressed with urgency, integrity, and accountability. We cannot afford to let the city’s assets slip away due to ignorance or selfishness. We must take back control, restore competence, and make the tough decisions that will put Jackson back on the path to prosperity.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The current relationship between the mayor and city council members in Jackson is, unfortunately, marked by dysfunction, division, and a lack of cooperation. There seems to be a persistent tension, often driven by political differences, that has hindered progress and effective governance. This fractious dynamic leads to gridlock, where critical issues are delayed or ignored due to lack of alignment, which ultimately harms the city and its residents. The failure to collaborate effectively undermines the city’s ability to respond to urgent needs and to implement long-term solutions for Jackson’s challenges.

The relationship between the mayor and city council should be one of mutual respect, shared goals, and a commitment to putting the needs of Jacksonians first. Both bodies must work together to create an efficient, transparent, and accountable government. The mayor, as the city’s executive leader, and the council, as the legislative body, must communicate openly, be willing to compromise on issues when necessary, and prioritize the well-being of the city above all else. Strong collaboration should be grounded in trust, professionalism, and a shared vision for the city’s future.

To improve this relationship, I would immediately focus on fostering a culture of open communication and collaboration. This means setting aside personal and political differences to focus on solving real problems facing the city. I would encourage regular, structured meetings between the mayor and city council to ensure everyone is on the same page and working toward the same goals. I believe in creating clear lines of accountability and ensuring that all parties have the opportunity to contribute their ideas and concerns, making sure decisions are based on the best interests of the people of Jackson.

Additionally, I would champion policy transparency, ensuring that decisions made by both the mayor and council are communicated clearly to the public. I would advocate for regular town hall meetings where city leaders can update the community on progress, solicit feedback, and remain open to input from the public. Trust can only be built through consistent actions that demonstrate a commitment to serving the people, not political agendas.

Ultimately, my goal as a council member is to build relationships based on trust, respect, and a shared vision of Jackson’s future, where we work together—not as separate entities, but as partners—to bring positive change to our city.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Jackson, Mississippi, has faced significant challenges over the past eight years, leading to systemic issues, economic decline, and governance dysfunctions. One of the most pressing issues has been the city’s ongoing water crisis. The water system has been plagued by inefficiency and contamination, resulting in unreliable service and poor water quality, which has led to disruptions for residents. Crime has also been a major concern, with Jackson experiencing one of the highest homicide rates in the U.S. In addition to safety concerns, the city has seen a steady decline in population and economic stagnation, which has contributed to a weakening local economy. Furthermore, the city’s governance has been marred by scandals, including charges of bribery and conspiracy against the mayor, further eroding public trust in leadership.

A Jackson on the right path would be a city where basic infrastructure, such as a reliable water system, is fully functional, ensuring the health and safety of residents. Public safety would improve through a reduction in crime, effective law enforcement, and a strong partnership between the police and the community. Economically, Jackson would see revitalization through job creation, business growth, and a thriving local economy. The city would also benefit from transparent governance, where leaders are held accountable, and the community is actively involved in decision-making processes.

To move Jackson in the right direction, immediate attention must be given to addressing the water system’s failures by investing in modern infrastructure. Public safety must be enhanced by implementing community policing strategies, investing in law enforcement training, and fostering better relationships between all levels of law enforcement and residents. Economic growth can be stimulated by attracting businesses, supporting local entrepreneurship, and investing in workforce development. Above all, governance must be transparent and accountable, with a focus on community engagement to rebuild trust and ensure that city leadership prioritizes the needs of Jacksonians. By addressing these core areas, Jackson can work toward a future defined by prosperity, safety, and trust.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Putting my name and myself out front to do what is expected, to whom much is given much is required.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Outside of Church, and I am Pentecostal and in a Pentecostal household you are going to church… but outside of that my family and I frequent the Belhaven Town Center, Fondren and Lefleur’s Bluff Museum District.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: My favorite Jacksonians are, my great-great grandparents Bennie Williams II and Creola Henderson Williams, my Aunt Linda Thompson, Bishop Phillip Coleman, Bishop Hollis Musgrove, all of whom are now deceased but some of my favorite living Jacksonians are John and Anne Lewis (First Baptist Jackson), Charles ‘Smarty Pants’ King Jr., and Capitol Police Chief Bo Luckey to a name few.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: Jackson deserves leaders who are transparent, accountable, and dedicated to serving the people. With decades of board level experience for key city and state organizations, I bring a deep understanding of governance and community needs. Strong community ties, optimistic ethical leadership, a vision for progress, a heart for service, a head for financial transparency and responsibility make me uniquely qualified to help RESTORE TRUST and REBUILD JACKSON into the safe, clean, functional and thriving city we are ALL proud to call home.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Strengthening Neighborhoods, Growing Values

• Homeownership is a cornerstone of strong communities and personal financial security. I am committed to maintaining and growing home values in Jackson by supporting policies that enhance safety, improve infrastructure, and encourage responsible development. By investing in Jackson, addressing blight, and fostering economic development opportunities, we can build a thriving and flourishing city.

2. Revitalizing Jackson: Unlocking Economic Growth

• Economic development is key to Jackson’s future. I am committed to fostering an environment where local businesses can thrive, new investments are welcomed, and job opportunities abound. By focusing on continued revitalization efforts, we can create a more prosperous Jackson. Together, we can build a vibrant economy that ensures a bright future where we live, work, and play.

3. Clearer Creeks, Safer Roads, Smoother Traffic

• Building a better Jackson starts with addressing essential infrastructure needs like storm water and creek clearing and grubbing to reduce flooding potential, prioritizing potholes and road repairs to ensure safe and smoother travels across the city, and traffic light improvements/synchronization to improve traffic flow and safety. Let’s pave the way for a brighter future for Jackson.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: At times, we need a reset. Jackson is no different. With budget restraints impacting services, outside assistance is essential for rebuilding and restructuring. Public school ratings are up, safety has improved in the CCID with help from DPS/Capitol Police, and JXN Water is putting water infrastructure on a sustainable path forward.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: Tensions between the mayor and city council are clear. From disputes over essential city services like garbage collection to broader governance, it’s evident the city’s leadership faces challenges. While disagreements are inevitable, we must focus on collaboration rather than division. Trust, accountability, and communication are key. By setting aside differences, we can work together to build a brighter future for Jackson.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: Uniting Jackson

Volunteerism is the heartbeat of a thriving community. Jackson is no exception. I am committed to promoting a culture of service by encouraging all Jackson residents to actively engage in their neighborhoods. By fostering volunteer collaboration and opportunities, we can address community challenges. Through volunteerism, we can build a stronger and more united Jackson – one act of service at a time.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: My proudest civic accomplishment was receiving the President’s Volunteer Service Lifetime Achievement Award from President Biden in 2023 recognizing over four thousand hours of service dedicated to uplifting the State of Mississippi. I achieved this while balancing my studies at Millsaps College and working full-time.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: Beyond my work and home life, I enjoy immersing myself in Jackson’s vibrant arts scene, supporting organizations like the Mississippi Symphony Orchestra, Opera Mississippi, and New Stage Theatre. You’ll often find me connecting with friends at local establishments, enjoying live music, staying active at Fondren Fitness, and deepening my commitment to community through my service at Fondren Presbyterian Church, where I previously served as an elder and currently co-moderate the Property Committee.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: There have been many remarkable Jacksonians, living and dead, who have left a lasting impact on the city and me over the years. Here are some of those notable people: Erma Tard, formerly of Maple St.; R. S. “Sunnie” Withers, former City Commissioner of Jackson; Tish “Lady” Withers; the Hill Group Families (Louise and Tom Biggs, Polly and Joe Howie, Mop and Jack Howard, Margaret and Lem Smith, Marion and Bill Noblin, and Tish and Sunnie Withers); Margaret and Coleman Lowery, Joan and Buster Bailey, William and Elise Winter, Doris Griffith Bridgeman, Marsha Meeks Kelly, Abdul Azeez, Laurie Hearin McRee, Darrell Wilson, Diane and John McGowan, and David Russell. I’ve had the opportunity to meet many wonderful prominent Jacksonians and politicians growing up through appointments by Governors Musgrove, Barbour, Bryant, and Reeves to Volunteer Mississippi. There are many others who have had a profound impact, and no offense is meant for not mentioning them.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: I am a qualified candidate due to my life experiences, my education, my living in Jackson, Mississippi for more than two decades, and my running a successful law business with my wife for more than twenty years.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A: First things first, I must first be elected to the city counsel by the people of ward 7. No uninformed responses are appropriate at any time.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: Presently, there are too many unknowns to respond this question properly.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: Again, presently there are too many unknowns to respond this question properly.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: People of Jackson are paying attention, and they are studying the issues that matter to make informed decisions. I would continue to encourage this approach.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: Being able to help people with legal matters who are unable to pay for legal services is one of my biggest civic accomplishments.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I spend time in school, at Church, in the park, and at the Library. I spend time shopping at many businesses here in Jackson, and my Wife and I eat out in various restaurants, fast food establishments, and other places here in Jackson.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Honorable Patricia D. Wise, Honorable Denise Wise and Dr. Sophia Leggett

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: Success in marketing and advertising comes from understanding the consumers and delivering what they want and need. The same principle applies to politics—successful politicians listen to their constituents and respond accordingly. With years of experience in advertising, I’ve honed the ability to see things from others’ perspectives, identify their needs, and find the best ways to meet them.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: The state only steps in or considers a takeover when systems start to fail. Competent leadership ensures that critical infrastructure, like the water system, doesn’t reach the point of failure, preventing the state from having a reason to intervene.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: The mayor often serves as the executive leader and the council as the legislative body and their success depends on working together. There needs to be open communication, mutual respect, shared accountability and community-centered decision-making. A strong mayor-council relationship fosters good governance, increases public trust, and leads to a more prosperous city.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: We need honest leaders who make decisions for what is best for Jackson as a whole instead of what is best for them. I will be an honest leader and make deals for the community, not myself.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: In December 2022, I led a four-day audit of the Hinds County Thompson/Flowers election results. It was no easy task—dedicating four days of my own time to scrutinize a government agency where officials weren’t exactly eager to have someone all up in their Kool-Aid.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I like to have coffee on the patio at PJs.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to serve on the Jackson City Council?

A: For the next four years, it is critical in our current state that our city must have municipal leaders who will listen to the people in every neighborhood and who are ready to serve without on the job training to move this City forward.  As a graduate of the Jackson Public Schools and the University of Mississippi with both accounting and law degrees, I have many years of real and varied experiences and success working together with leaders at every level of government, business owners, neighbors, and people of every background to bring positive and effective change.  I believe I am uniquely qualified and ready to serve, having been a Jackson attorney at law since 1976 in Fondren, then representing much of this same Ward 7 area in the Mississippi Legislature.   In years since serving in the Legislature I continued to expand my legislative experience as a lobbyist for businesses, particularly small family-owned ones for about 35 years.

With a deep heart for our community and state I’ve served at both the program level and with work on the ground in the community and throughout our state. I have a varied realm of such service touching every citizen.  I have served on some 50 different Boards and Commissions, most of which are non-profit,  To assist those less fortunate or with various challenges, I’ve served on the Hinds County Human Resource Agency Board, which has numerous programs for the poor and elderly, including oversight of Head Start; the Willowwood Developmental Center Board; Central MS Planning & Development District’s Advisory Council on Aging, and received the Advocacy Award by the Governor’s Council on Aging; recipient the Outstanding Legislator Award by the MS Association for Education & Rehabilitation of the Blind & Visually Impaired.

With a daughter who’s a pediatric nurse practitioner currently serving our Jackson Public School students and beloved brother who was a doctor in our city, health of every nature is important to me as evidenced by my prior service on the Mississippi Heart Association Board and as a former Chairman of the Hinds County Heart Assn. Board;  the MS Hemophilia Assn. Board;  helped organize and was the first Board Chair for the Center for Pregnancy Choices which is now known as The Cline Center; the MS Lions Eye Bank Board; the State Obesity Council; on a former inner city drug & alcohol rehabilitation Board; and the state’s Comprehensive Health Insurance High Risk Pool Assn. Board.

To better our physical environment I’ve served some 28 years on the Keep Mississippi Beautiful Board, and previously as a President; currently on the Keep Jackson Beautiful Advisory Board, and previously served on its Board as Vice Chairman;  helped organize and have served on the MS Recycling Coalition Board and as Treasurer.  I’ve helped with cleanups and beautification in many cities throughout Mississippi and many areas of Jackson, and was previously awarded Keep America Beautiful’s singular national male volunteer of the year.

In business and with my concern for lifting up everyone economically, I served on the State Workforce Investment Board when it was first organized for several years;  currently serve the Fondren business community for now my 6th year on the Fondren Business Improvement District Board and now in my 3rd year as Board Chair.  I previously helped organize the Fondren Association of Businesses and received their “Fondren Business Person of the Year” Award. 

Directly related to Jackson where I’ve lived, I’ve also served as Treasurer and a Board member for the Belhaven Improvement Association, and served on a former Jackson Mayor’s Crime Commission and his Task Force on Juvenile Chemical Abuse.  My greatest joy over the past almost 3 years has been serving with the Bridging the Gap Outreach Ministry helping unite our Jackson area churches together throughout every neighborhood of our city to make a difference for God’s good to all.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact through council action and how.

A:

1. Improving our relationship with the state’s leaders — Governor, Lt. Governor & Speaker, state agencies and federal leaders; and ALSO between the Mayor and the Council — so that our true priority needs can be better received and discussed in a positive way leading to better cooperation.  We must change the negative message to a positive one of working together and thanking them for the enormous support they’ve already been willing to make as an entire state for our Capital City.  Their support must also warrant trust in making sure those resources are used totally for what’s intended and also properly accounted for in every detail.   Just as we desire others to be gracious to us, I learned a long time ago, what you give away comes back to you!
2. Budgeting for Priorities —  My desire is always to work together and we must do that the next 4 years and beyond with the new Council and Mayor to ensure all taxpayer funds and human resources are used wisely, effectively and efficiently.  We must set a high standard of public service and trust all can believe in.   Our financial priorities must be just that — the core functions of government at this level:  Public Safety first (police and fire) and infrastructure (roads, bridges, drainage, water, garbage).  Next should be the various ways to rebuild this fine city economically.  Certain sections of town are doing well because of neighborhood involvement and we’ve got to help lead in joining together all across the city and wards, and build up every area.  The Terry Road business corridor in Ward 7 is a dramatic change from what it used to be with so many deserted business buildings.  We’ve got say “No more,” and mean it with action and the right type of support to our many fine neighborhood associations who care so much and need special encouragement and support.  Burned out houses, crime and unsightly surroundings abound, yet good people still live there.  Another key area that must be prioritized is dealing with our ever increasing homeless population and coming together with the right, compassionate and effective ways to deal with the different types of homeless.  Those with mental issues or hooked on drugs must be dealt with differently without them being a real problem for our businesses and residents.  I will be there to do that as I’ve been doing in several areas of this city as part of working through Bridging the Gap Outreach Ministry, local churches and neighborhood efforts.  Together we can and will rise up together!
3. Public Trust, Integrity and Transparency — When I give my word that will be what I will do.  As my earthly and Heavenly Fathers have instilled in me — “A good name is rather to be chosen than great riches.”   I plan to be open, honest and available to all to listen to each and seek out your ideas for moving this city out of this pit we’ve been in and be the “City on a Hill” that all can be proud to call home and our state’s Capital City.  There’s much good happening in our City many don’t even know about it, but I’ve seen it, and people are doing amazing things.  Together we can and will, with God’s help, solve this crisis.  As my good friend of Fondren always says “Working Together Works!”  May God bless our work and bring us together like never before!

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: As Jacksonians, like any other city, we don’t want to have various necessary services taken over by others, however, we had to have help in getting some of these fixed and done quickly because of certain lack of leadership and trust.  In our Fondren area, the garbage and water crisis was crippling our many great businesses and three restaurants had to close in spite of our Business district trying to support them with portable water resources and ways to get rid of the garbage.  Our citizens deserve and expect better and thankfully we’ve now got consistent water to our homes and businesses. 

After seeing the positive differences with the addition of Capitol Police to help shore up a reduced force of our fine Jackson Police stretched thin over Jackson,  I proactively walked the streets of north Fondren in a very diverse area to see what the residents and business owners/managers preferred in adding the Capitol Police to their area with some key Fondren legislative help got this area added.  Every one of the businesses in north Fondren signed a petition saying yes, and all but one resident were passionate about also saying “yes” to another level of law enforcement to help protect their families, employees, and customers.  Other areas of Jackson have also asked for such expansion.  We are blessed to have both Chiefs and our Sheriff working together, however, the crime is totally out of hand and we must turn this around.

We’re thankful for the opportunity for our school board to make adjustments and raise the bar on performance for these students, as well as taking care of the hard choices of dealing with too much property to maintain and taking significant tough action.  I’m excited to have an “A” school in Ward 7 – Obama School.  How awesome and we thank them and all in our public and private schools for making our next generation better as individuals and educationally.

We must elect officials who will do what’s right with the priority of funds and needs for the citizens in dealing with safety first and providing the right resources for our law enforcement and first responders, our infrastructure duties, and our business and employee needs for all must be successful without government hindering them.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: We must not let it continue another day into the next term after these elections.  Period.  We all care about this city and its great citizens too much to do less.   Just as that relationship deteriorated over time, this city deteriorated, and that must STOP!   WE are better than this, and it’s time we ALL show it.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: All around Jackson and every night on the news vividly shares what’s broken about Jackson — top homicide rate, gunfire everywhere, burned out homes and deserted business buildings;  increasing homelessness; failing to properly maintain its own buildings — Thalia Mara and our libraries.  ALL of these are a part of public safety and economic development.  Yet without any urgency of improving them.  The people of Jackson are sick of it and so am I. 

As I’ve stated in other answers, the negative direction must stop with this election.  Working Together, Lifting Each Other Up and Uniting across all lines and boundaries must be accomplished to overcome what the world tries to set up to keep us from what’s right.  Let’s all talk about the GOOD of Jackson — our schools are better, our people are great, our churches are moving beyond the 4 walls to the 4 corners, because in our heart we all care — that’s all of us!!!  It’s easy to see the negatives as you drive around, but I’ve been fortunate to see behind the curtain of our residents who truly care!  We are all of the same mindset — We want and deserve better!  Let’s all help them and our state provide safety first, cleanup, build up and show up for our Capital City!

We must immediately change the direction with swift action to stop this violence, and create an environment that it will not be tolerated by law enforcement at all levels and with cooperation of the people.  The broken window theory of crime is emblematic of why Jackson has been digging a deeper pit instead of progress its citizens deserve.  Let’s coordinate an effort to clean up the burned out houses and make Jackson a welcome place not just for the residents who live here but for others to come and see and entrepreneurs to desire to locate in those empty buildings.  We can do it working together!

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: As a dedicated participant of Bridging the Gap Outreach Ministry and as the Fondren Business Improvement District Board Chairman we have seen a change in a low income apartment complex from teenagers committing local area crimes to no crime and providing female and male mentors appropriately to the young mothers and the teenagers of this Fondren community;  as well as participating in and seeing other instances of this unique way to improve Jackson around our city in a very effective way.

I would be glad to share others, but this is closest to my heart right now as to why I’m running to help the people of this city.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A:

1. First Baptist Church Jackson as life Deacon, young adult Sunday school Co-leader/substitute teacher; and Outreach/Evangelism Committee
2. Fondren Business Improvement District as Board Chairman for the 3rd year and for the 6th year as Board member.
3. Bridging The Gap Outreach Ministry as member of the various Jackson area neighbor groups — Fondren, South Jxn, West Jxn, Georgetown, NE Jxn, and hopefully soon more; Mapping Committee; serving these neighborhood through the local neighborhood churches, providing resources, mentors and meeting other needs to change lives for the better.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A:

• Cameron & Yvonne Tate — led to begin and lead this extremely important and life-changing Bridging the Gap Outreach Ministry — making a huge difference for God and the overall and individual good in our community by bringing Jackson’s Christian community together to do the work He’s called us to do in every area. Cameron is more excited about Jackson than anyone I know, and when you meet him, you will love Jackson too!
• Ronnie Crudup, Jr. — state legislator from Jackson making great strides in at the state level for Jackson and who has led to make a difference on the streets of Jackson, no matter where or what hour of the day. He has worked intently to provide the real needs for teenagers to have a safe place to play and commune together in a first class, awesome facility known as “The Ark”. He’s also opened many other doors for others particularly in south and west Jackson. I’ve known him for a long time and have seen how God has molded his heart and service.
• David & Amy Lancaster — We Will Go Ministries — moved to inner city Jackson with their young family and have ministered in every way to the least of these, and have continued to expand their territory of making a difference in lives and in the neighborhoods.
• Dana Wilson — Hope House of Hospitality staff and Jackson area Chair of Aglow Ministries — “Miss Dana” has a heart of gold for her desire to lift up others. She helps head up our Fondren Bridging the Gap Ministry and is making an awesome difference at Hope House and also in the Fondren neighborhood and elsewhere mentoring young mothers in an apartment complex by developing a team of 11 mentors working with 37 young mothers. She’s one no one forgets. All who know her come to her beckoned call. She is making similar differences in the lives of teenagers, as an shining example of one who got her GED later in life and recently also got her real estate sales license.

I could list many other greats of this city over the years, but these are definite ones who are helping lift this city up NOW.

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: I have served under 4 different mayoral administrations Harvey Johnson, Chokwe Lumumba, Tony Yarber, and Chokwe A. Lumumba, during that time I had the opportunity to learn the inner workings of the department by department, I have implemented and executed city wide water distribution drives during the water crisis, worked side by side with state agencies to create evacuation plans during the 2019 February flood, worked side by side with city departments to provide essentials during the COVID-19 pandemic, provided PPE supplies for citizens, and implemented and executed a city-wide drinking and non-drinking water plan during the 2021 Winter Storm. In 2019 – 2021, I was responsible for managing three disasters declared by the Federal Emergency Management Agency. Developed an Alternative Water Source Plan for the Environmental Protection Agency.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A:

1. Rebuilding relationships: Working closely with Jackson Water to ensure that all lines of communication remain open and fluid. We must maintain open and honest communication with our stakeholders and citizens in order to ensure that progress is being made toward fixing the water and sewer system. Having a progressive city requires fixing the water and sewer systems.
2. Engaging Youth: focus on creating relevant participation opportunities that align with their interests, utilizing digital platforms, facilitating leadership development, and actively seeking their input on issues impacting their lives, creating a sense of ownership and trust in the community.
3. Promote employee morale by prioritizing a balance between work and personal life, enforcing a zero-tolerance policy for workplace bullying, and promoting health and wellness.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: According to my philosophy, state takeovers can be avoided if municipal governments are proactive and not reactive. Each of the state takeover attempts or successful takeovers occurred as a result of poor communication, lack of honesty, a lack of maintenance, a lack of capacity, and failure to follow guidelines put in place by other government agencies.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: A lack of trust and an inability to communicate openly and honestly has resulted in a broken relationship between the mayor and city council. It is imperative that the mayor and the council president maintain a fluid and open line of communication. In the event that the president is unavailable, the vice president should fill in. If the president is unavailable, the vice president should assume the role of the president. The executive and legislative branches of the municipal government should be able to come up with win-win solutions for Jackson that will enhance the quality of life for all residents.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: There is no doubt that Jackson is moving in the right direction, but I believe that it is a blank canvas that has potential that is not being explored. There are five institutions of higher learning within the city, but the city does not engage in nationally renowned academic, athletic, and arts programs in order to tell the story of Jackson.

Due to Jackson’s rich history and precious rubies, there is a need to create places where these stories can be told and shared. There is a need for resources and programs to support the small business community in Jackson. Jackson must have a strong economic plan in place in order to create, build, and sustain itself. The creation of spaces and opportunities for our youth and young adults.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: I was nominated for a local hometown hero award for my work with the COVID-19 pandemic.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: I like to spend time at local eatery’s and coffee shops, serving in the nursery and youth ministry at Redeemer church, and coaching U10 fast-pitch girls softball for my father’s non-profit.

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A:

• Medgar Evers
• Hezekiah Watkins
• Pam Junior
• Rita Brent
• Elbert McGowan Jr.
• Susan McCaffrey
• Nelda Martin

Q: What makes you uniquely qualified to run the City of Jackson?

A: Born and raised in Jackson I have always been dedicated to Jackson’s progress and development and worked on the effort to have Jackson’s form of government changed. I have educated myself with the knowledge and skills to work with whoever can help build a better Jackson.

Q: Name three solutions to city problems you would enact as mayor and how.

A: Increased police presence and first responders. Repair Jackson’s streets. Promote business development including major companies.

Q: Jackson has faced state takeover attempts in several areas of government – from the water system to public schools, from the airport and a historic stadium to law enforcement and criminal courts. What is your philosophy around state takeovers and what would you do in response to these efforts?

A: I believe that Jackson has the ability to manage each of these areas when the proper attention is given to their maintenance. I will place the people with the expertise to manage these areas and make sure that they are accountable to the people of this great city.

Q: Comment on the current relationship between the mayor and city council members, how that relationship should look, and what you would do to improve it.

A: I have said before that the mayor and obviously most of the council members don’t know their responsibilities. As mayor I will be open and accountable to the citizens and will openly encourage each council member to do the same.

Q: Multiple candidates have suggested that Jackson is “on the wrong path.” Describe the characteristics of a Jackson that is on the right path and how you would get it there.

A: A Jackson that has a strong and viable police force and top rate public schools will go a long way towards increasing our image. That will be two of my primary focus.

Q: Describe one of your biggest civic accomplishments.

A: When I took part in the effort to change the form of government in Jackson.

Q: Community thrives in third-spaces. Besides your home and work, where do you spend time in Jackson?

A: With family and friends and social events

Q: Who are your favorite Jacksonians, living or dead?

A: Henry Kirksy, Dorothy Stewert- high school teacher, the late Chokwe Lumumba and Charles Tisdale all deceased.