Nick Derzis Unseats Incumbent Frank Brocato in Hoover Mayoral Election

August 27, 2025 - HOOVER, AL. - In a closely watched municipal election, longtime Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis defeated two-term incumbent Mayor Frank Brocato, securing 55.54% of the vote to Brocato's 44.46%. The results mark a significant leadership shift in one of Alabama's largest and fastest-growing cities.

Election Results

• Nick Derzis: 9,672 votes (55.54%)

• Frank Brocato: 7,743 votes (44.46%)

The race drew heightened attention after campaign materials featuring high-profile figures like Alabama football coach Kalen DeBoer and U.S. Senator Katie Britt sparked controversy over implied endorsements. Despite Brocato's backing from several out-of-town mayors and business groups, Derzis secured endorsements from four sitting Hoover city councilors and a slate of local leaders.

From Police Chief to Mayor

Derzis brings over four decades of public service to the mayor's office, including 20 years as Hoover's police chief. His campaign emphasized transparency, accountability, and restoring Hoover's economic vitality - particularly around the Riverchase Galleria and other commercial corridors.

"I've served Hoover for 44 years... now the next four as mayor," Derzis said on election night. "We're going to make things happen".

He pledged to announce a transition team focused on economic development, featuring well-known figures from across Alabama.

"When I announced six months ago in Patton Creek, I talked about this city looking tired... Last night was a wake-up call. The citizens said, 'Hey, we want the change.' Status quo is not good enough."

Key Priorities

Derzis outlined several immediate goals:

• Economic revitalization: Reimagining Hoover's commercial hubs

• Public safety: Leveraging his law enforcement background to enhance community policing

• Education: Strengthening partnerships with Hoover City Schools

• Government transparency: Reforming internal processes and communication

His campaign slogan - "Make Hoover, Hoover Again" - resonated with voters seeking a return to civic responsiveness and local pride.

Regional Implications

Derzis' victory reflects a broader trend in Alabama's 2025 municipal elections, where several incumbents faced strong challenges. Hoover's leadership transition may influence regional planning, especially in Jefferson and Shelby counties, where infrastructure, zoning, and school funding remain hot-button issues.