By NEAL WAGNER / Managing Editor

ALABASTER – Kerri Bell Pate said she would work to continue Alabaster’s economic growth and would work to support the city’s public safety departments if elected to the Ward 7 seat on the City Council.

Pate has announced she plans to seek the seat once the candidate qualifying period opens on July 5.

“My passion and love for my city are the driving forces in my prayerful decision to run,” Pate said. “For a few years, now, I have felt a calling to serve Alabaster in a more vocal role.”

“I have never been one to sit quietly on the sidelines,” she added. “I am especially passionate about keeping Alabaster’s position as a top place to raise families.”

Pate is running against Ward 7 incumbent Tommy Ryals, who has served on the seat since 2000.

Pate said she is a “strong supporter” of the Alabaster police and fire departments, and said she will support efforts to keep the city a safe place for families.

Pate has coached youth sports, participated on PTO boards and school booster clubs, served on the feasibility committee studying the formation of the Alabaster City School System, and served on the Comprehensive Planning Board.

Pate said she is “passionate about working with and serving active military and veterans” in her work and personal life.

Pate currently serves on the Alabaster City School Foundation and the city’s Planning and Zoning Board.

“Establishing strategic relationships with businesses that are considering making Alabaster their home is critical to our progress and long-term success,” Pate said. “I already have a strong relationship with individuals and families throughout my city, so I genuinely want to be able to use this platform as a way to serve not only the constituents of Ward 7, but all Alabaster residents.”

Pate and her husband, Doug, have three children, Savannah, Sawyer and Ella. The Pates have lived in Alabaster for more than 18 years, and currently attend the Church of the Highlands Alabaster campus.

Pate serves on the staff of the American Village Citizenship Trust in Montevallo as the manager of retail sales and manager of visitors and volunteer services.