Trussville Decides Today: Voters Choose Next Mayor in Pivotal Municipal Election

August 26, 2025 - TRUSSVILLE, AL. - Today, August 26, residents of Trussville head to the polls to elect their next mayor and five city council members in a quadrennial municipal election that could reshape the city's leadership and priorities for the next four years.

Polls are open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and voters must bring a valid Alabama photo ID-such as a driver's license or non-driver ID-to cast their ballot. Voting takes place at five locations: Trussville City Hall, Trussville Civic Center, First Baptist Church, Faith Community Fellowship, and Northpark Baptist Church.

The Mayoral Race: Three Candidates, One Vision for Trussville

Three candidates are vying to succeed Mayor Buddy Choat, who has served since 2016 and recently addressed concerns about city debt and budget performance:

• Lisa Bright: A longtime community advocate and nonprofit leader, Bright has emphasized transparency, neighborhood investment, and youth engagement.

• Ben Short: A former city council member and small business owner, Short is campaigning on fiscal discipline, infrastructure upgrades, and public safety.

• J.T. Smallwood: Jefferson County's Tax Collector, Smallwood brings regional experience and a focus on intergovernmental cooperation and economic development.

Each candidate has pledged to address Trussville's growth, infrastructure needs, and community services while maintaining the city's character and financial stability.

City Finances and Public Debate

Mayor Choat recently clarified that Trussville's total debt stands at approximately $160 million, with $68.5 million tied to school projects funded by a dedicated sales tax. The remaining $95 million is city debt, which Choat said has been responsibly managed through short-term financing. The city began the fiscal year with a nearly $1 million deficit but now expects to finish with a surplus.

This financial backdrop has shaped much of the campaign dialogue, with candidates offering differing views on debt management, spending priorities, and long-term planning.

Council Races and Community Representation

Alongside the mayoral contest, voters will select five city council members. Notable races include:

• Place 1: Ben Horton vs. Wayne Taylor

• Place 2: Brian Jackson (unopposed)

• Place 3: Jaime Melton Anderson (incumbent) vs. Leslee Hughes

• Place 4: James Miller vs. Mildred Reed

• Place 5: Kimberly Farr vs. Anthony Montalto (incumbent)

These at-large positions will help shape Trussville's legislative agenda, budget decisions, and community initiatives.

What Happens Next

If no mayoral candidate receives more than 50% of the vote, a runoff will be held on Tuesday, September 23. The new administration will be sworn in on November 3, marking the start of a new chapter for Trussville.

Final Thoughts

Today's election is more than a routine vote-it's a referendum on Trussville's future. With growth pressures, financial scrutiny, and community expectations all in play, voters have a chance to choose leaders who reflect their priorities and vision.

So grab your ID, check your polling place, and make your voice heard. Trussville's next chapter begins today.