FROM STAFF REPORTS

MONTEVALLO – Local business owner, community leader and current Montevallo City Councilmember Sonya Swords has officially announced her candidacy for re-election to the Montevallo City Council, representing District 4. The municipal election for the city will be held Tuesday, Aug. 26.

Swords, a longtime Montevallo resident, is known for her commitment to fiscal responsibility, integrity and building strong partnerships that drive community growth. During her time in office, the city’s General Fund has nearly doubled, more than $2 million in grant funding has been secured and Montevallo has expanded investment in public safety while prioritizing long-term financial stability.

“While some projects make headlines, the real work has been in laying a strong foundation for our city’s future—ensuring we’re financially sound and positioned for smart, sustainable growth,” said Swords.

A champion for Montevallo’s youth, Swords has focused on strengthening relationships with local schools and supporting projects that enhance educational and athletic opportunities for students.

“These relationships matter,” she said. “In many cities, it’s through strong collaboration that new athletic and educational facilities are made possible. I’ve made it a priority to have those conversations and push for our students to have what they need to succeed.”

Swords recently qualified to run for re-election and is seeking continued support from District 4 residents to build on the city’s momentum. Her re-election platform includes:

– A firm commitment to fiscal responsibility, transparency and integrity

– Improving neighborhood safety through stronger public engagement

– Continued investment in youth and educational partnerships

– Ensuring first responders have the tools and resources they need

– Maintaining and improving Montevallo’s public infrastructure

– Promoting smart growth for a better Montevallo

“As a businesswoman and a mother, I understand the importance of public safety,” Swords said. “We need to continue to invest in our city and protect our police and fire departments. I will continue to fight for Montevallo to be a place where you are proud to raise your children.”

In addition to her public service, Swords is a successful local entrepreneur and owner of several small businesses that provide housing, real estate, entertainment and recreation services to Montevallo residents. She holds a bachelor’s degree in speech-language pathology from the University of Montevallo, and her professional experience includes over seven years as a paralegal with one of Alabama’s largest law firms, where she also served under the Jefferson County Conservator.

Swords and her husband, Mike, have two children: a son, Kemp, and a daughter, Blake.

For media inquiries or more information about the campaign, please contact sswords@cityofmontevallo.com.