Local business leader, JJ Thomas, announces candidacy for Homewood City Council Ward 2

Homewood business owner and longtime community leader JJ Thomas announced today that he is running for City Council in Ward 2.

With Homewood approaching its 100-year anniversary, Thomas said the moment offers an opportunity not just to reflect, but to chart a thoughtful course for the city’s next century.

“Next year, Homewood turns 100 years old. It’s a milestone worth celebrating—and a moment to ask: what kind of city do we want to be for the next hundred years?” said Thomas. “We have potential. We have opportunities. But with growth has come real challenges—aging infrastructure, rising safety demands, and a new form of government that calls for steady, experienced leadership.”

According to campaign officials, Thomas brings both private sector and civic experience to the race. He’s the Founder and CEO of Class Action Capital, a multinational firm that served more than 8,000 clients and managed over $2 billion in assets. In Homewood, he co-owns Slice Pizza & Brew and developed The Edge, a community-driven dining and entertainment space created through adaptive reuse. He also previously taught entrepreneurial finance as an adjunct professor at the University of Alabama’s Culverhouse College of Business.

In addition to his executive & professional experience, Thomas has deep ties to the Homewood community. He currently serves on the boards of the Homewood Chamber of Commerce, Homewood Athletic Foundation, and Homewood Helps, while also supporting numerous community organizations including the Homewood Police Foundation, Fire Department Foundation, and Homewood Soccer Club.

“I’ve built companies, led teams, and solved problems at scale—but what matters most is the ability to listen, lead with integrity, and put families first,” Thomas said. “This isn’t about me. It’s about you and your family—about safe streets, great schools, and city government you can count on.”

Thomas’s campaign stated that if elected, Thomas plans to use his financial & business management background to improve city operations. Thomas will prioritize financial management, public safety, infrastructure solutions, improved city communications, and smart development that preserves the neighborhood character of Homewood that residents value.

“We don’t just need leaders who can respond to problems—we need leaders who can help prevent them,” he said. “I’m committed to protecting what makes Homewood special while helping us grow wisely and sustainably.”

The campaign is inviting supporters to join “Neighbors for JJ” to stay connected, request yard signs, volunteer, and receive updates ahead of the municipal election on August 26, 2025. Thomas may also be followed on Facebook and Instagram.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].