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FROM STAFF REPORTS

Lifelong resident of Vincent and third-term City Council member Bridgette Jordan-Smith has announced that she has qualified to campaign for Mayor of Vincent.

“I have served on the Council since 2008 and have both the experience and the proven passion to lead Vincent into the future,” she said. “I do not underestimate the challenges. At the same time, I am optimistic that the City of Vincent has the opportunity to prosper.

“Our future rests with our youth. I understand the critical need for municipal government to be engaged in our community schools.”

Jordan-Smith is a graduate of Vincent High School and served as PTO President while her daughter Bria attended both Vincent Elementary School and Vincent Middle High School.

She is also a graduate of the University of Alabama and has worked in the field of early childhood education and childhood development since, while she also has more than 20 years of experience as a tax specialist and serves as Secretary for Coosa Valley Baptist Church.

“I understand the budget process and the need for each of our citizens to know how their dollars are being spent,” she said. “I believe the residents of this city should be able to see their tax dollars at work and have the opportunity to engage in determining what projects are considered a priority.”

As a city council member, Jordan-Smith also served on the Library Board and the Park Board and was instrumental in establishing “Vincent in the Park” an annual, free, family-friendly community event.

“Vincent in the Park and our annual Christmas Parade are made possible through sponsors, our businesses and the outstanding engagement of the VMHS JROTC and our community churches,” Jordan-Smith said.  “Everyone working together makes good things happen and we have citizens always willing to volunteer.”

As a leader in Shelby County, Jordan-Smith currently serves on the Board of Directors of Leadership Shelby County (past President), the Board of Directors of The Shelby County Chamber and a member of the Governor’s Task Force for Human Trafficking.

Jordan-Smith is also a member of the Alabama League of Municipalities with emeritus designation and serves on the State and Federal Legislation Committee and is the Immediate Past President of the Human Development Committee.

“I work hard for the citizens of this City both learning the laws of municipal governance and in establishing relationships at all levels of government,” she said. “I have a proven track record and know how to leverage our tax dollars with those at the County, State and Federal level.

“I understand the need to balance creating an environment that invites business while serving the needs of our aging and others in need.  Challenges that face our families are real the services necessary to provide for our youth are critical to sustaining both the charm and our quality of life.”

Jordan-Smith said she wants to lead the city of Vincent because she believes that inclusivity is critical to good public policy and every segment of the community, schools, churches and businesses, which includes every citizen deserving a voice.

“Elected office requires a servant’s heart. I love this City and would be honored for the opportunity to continue to serve, and thrilled to do so as mayor,” she said.