Ward 4, President Pro Tem
How long have you served Ward 4, and what inspired you to run?
I’m currently in my second term with 5/1/2 years as Council Representative for Ward 4. After retiring from the Alabaster Fire Department as Deputy Fire Chief in 2011, I felt that I could bring a fresh perspective to the citizens of Ward 4 and the City. I felt that my 30 years with the department and having knowledge of how city government works would benefit Ward 4. My main goal in seeking the Council seat was to ensure that the Public Safety Divisions met the demands of the City’s growth.
How long have you been in Alabaster and where do you live?
I was born in Indiana and have lived in Florida and California before moving to Alabaster. I have lived in Alabaster for 42 years. My wife and I have lived in Sterling Gate subdivision for 22 years.
What committees do you serve on or chair?
I currently serve on the Finance Committee and the Public Safety Committee. I serve as chair of the Public Safety Committee. I also serve as a Council Representative on the Alabaster Water Board. In 2020, the Council voted me as President Pro Tem, of which I am honored to serve and humbled to have been chosen.
What are the biggest issues facing Ward 4 and the city as a whole?
We have to ensure that we keep up with services and provide Police and Fire protection as we continue to grow. As the largest city in the county with a Great School System, we have challenges when we continue to grow and meet the demands of that growth. There are so many other government agencies that you have to work with, and government does not work fast.
What are the things that you or the whole Council have accomplished during your terms that you are proud of?
I am proud of the 51/2 years that I have served on the Council and the new Police Headquarters that will be ready this year. I’m proud of the purchase of a platform ladder truck for the Fire Department, because this purchase will help meet the needs of future commercial development and replaced a small out-of-date truck. The Council also approved the hiring of three firefighters for the new truck. Also, the expansion of Veterans Park, rehab of Abby Wooley Park, the purchase of the Industrial Road property for the development of Patriot Park, the increase in the city’s portion of employees’ health insurance, and adopting a citywide traffic calming program.
How did you feel about the state adding a year to your term?
It was a surprise but understandable. Last election cycle, I believe citizens had voter fatigue with all the elections that took place. Hopefully by moving our elections to off the national election cycle will increase turnouts for municipal elections.
What is on your wish list of accomplishments?
Needed expansions of the fire stations, the Patriot Park development, roadway expansions and rehabilitation, potential city center development, and trail and sidewalk expansion.
What is your day job, and tell me about your family.
I’m currently semi-retired—I work part-time at American Village and Hothouse Designs. My wife and I have been married for 39 years, and we have one Daughter and two granddaughters.
Council Comments:
It continues to be an honor to serve as your councilperson. If you have any suggestions or questions about Ward 1 or our City, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]. Some of our best ideas come from our own residents. We truly appreciate your support as we continue to move our City forward.” Sophie Martin
Would you like to ask the Council a question? Send your question to [email protected], and designate which council member (or all of them), and we’ll publish your question and response in the magazine in a future issue.