Leeds, Alabama Mayoral Race 2025: Four Candidates, One Vision for the City's Future

As the August 26, 2025 municipal election approaches, the city of Leeds finds itself at a crossroads. With four qualified candidates vying for the mayor's office-John Dawson, Michael B. French, Eddie W. Moore, and Kenneth Washington-the race reflects a community grappling with growth, infrastructure needs, and the desire for responsive leadership. Each candidate brings a unique background and set of priorities, offering voters distinct choices for the city's next chapter.

Eddie W. Moore enters the race with deep personal and professional ties to Leeds. A seventh-generation resident, Moore has lived, worked, and raised his family in the city. His career spans retail management, operations leadership with Texaco Xpress Partners (now Express Oil Change), and civic service. After retiring in 2021, Moore remained active in the community, coaching Little League and serving on the Commercial Development Board and the Leeds Water Works Board. His campaign emphasizes practical improvements: investing in parks and recreation, building a civic center, streamlining permitting processes, supporting local schools, and enhancing quality of life through amenities like bike lanes, disc golf, and a dog park. Moore's message is rooted in accessibility and integrity. "Leeds isn't just where I live," he said. "It's where I've worked, raised my family, and served all of my life. This city is our legacy, and like you, I care deeply about its future."

John Dawson, also a qualified candidate, brings a reputation for steady leadership and community involvement. While Dawson has not yet released a detailed platform, his supporters cite his experience in local business and his longstanding engagement with civic affairs. Dawson is expected to focus on economic development, public safety, and maintaining Leeds' small-town character amid regional growth pressures. His candidacy appeals to voters seeking continuity and a pragmatic approach to governance.

Michael B. French enters the race with a background in public service and administration. Known for his work in regional planning and infrastructure coordination, French is likely to emphasize long-term strategic development. His campaign is expected to address transportation challenges, zoning reform, and intergovernmental cooperation with Jefferson and St. Clair Counties. French's supporters view him as a candidate capable of navigating complex regulatory environments while keeping Leeds' interests front and center.

Kenneth Washington rounds out the field with a platform focused on equity, youth engagement, and neighborhood revitalization. Washington has been active in community outreach and education initiatives, and his campaign is expected to prioritize inclusive development and expanded access to city services. He has spoken about the need to bridge generational divides and ensure that all residents-regardless of background-feel heard and represented in city government.

The mayoral race coincides with city council elections across five districts, adding further weight to the August ballot. Leeds voters will have the opportunity to shape not only the executive leadership of their city but also the legislative direction for the coming years. With issues like infrastructure, permitting, recreation, and education on the table, the 2025 election is more than a contest of personalities-it's a referendum on how Leeds will manage its growth and preserve its identity.

Residents are encouraged to visit the City Election 2025 portal for district maps, voter ID requirements, and campaign guidelines. As the candidates make their case to the public, Leeds stands poised to choose a leader who can balance tradition with innovation and guide the city into its next phase.