Longtime Decatur City Councilman Billy Jackson has officially launched his campaign to become the city’s next mayor, adding his name to an increasingly competitive race ahead of the August 2025 municipal election.
Jackson, who has represented District 1 since 1996, is the longest-serving current member of the Decatur City Council. A graduate of Austin High School and Alabama A&M University, Jackson is a lifelong resident of Decatur.
He says that his time on the council has provided him with a deep understanding of the city’s challenges and how local government operates. He said this perspective positions him to take on the mayor’s role with confidence and readiness.
Jackson outlined several key priorities for his campaign, including improving infrastructure, addressing homelessness, expanding mental health services, and bolstering economic growth. He also emphasized the importance of restoring transparency and accountability in city government and indicated that his initial focus as mayor would be setting clear expectations with department leaders.
In an interview with WHNT News 19, Jackson explained that he had been contemplating a mayoral run for several years, but recent developments prompted him to move forward. He also expressed concern over what he described as a lack of leadership and openness within the current administration, stating that those issues have contributed to a disconnect with the community.
RELATED: Decatur businessman announces mayoral campaign for 2025 election
Jackson’s announcement follows the decision by incumbent Mayor Tab Bowling not to seek re-election. Bowling, who was first elected in 2016 and re-elected in 2020, shared his decision in October 2023.
Several other candidates are also in the race to become Decatur’s next mayor. They include Planning Commission Chairman Kent Lawrence, Personnel Board Member Suzie Wiley, and former City Councilman Butch Matthews. Businessman Justin Weil had initially declared his candidacy but announced this week that he is ending his campaign and endorsing Jackson, citing shared values and confidence in Jackson’s leadership.
Decatur voters will head to the polls to choose their next mayor on Tuesday, August 26, 2025.
Sherri Blevins is a writer for Mountain Valley News and a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].
