Center Point Mayoral Runoff: Scott and Collins Face Off in a Race for Renewal

September 22, 2025 - CENTER POINT, AL. - Center Point voters will return to the polls on Tuesday, September 23, to decide who will lead their city for the next four years. The runoff election pits incumbent Mayor Bobby Scott against challenger Council President D.M. Collins, following a competitive first round that left the city's future hanging in the balance.

With issues like public safety, infrastructure, and economic revitalization dominating the conversation, the race has become a referendum on both the city's recent progress and its long-term direction.

First Round Recap: A Tight Contest

In the August 26 general election, Bobby Scott led the field with 1,028 votes (48.7%), just shy of the majority needed to avoid a runoff. D.M. Moore followed with 737 votes (35%), while former councilwoman Sharon Jones received 346 votes (16.3%).

Jones's supporters are now a key swing bloc, and both Scott and Collins have spent the past month courting her base. With turnout expected to be low, every vote will count in what could be a razor-thin finish.

The Candidates: Continuity vs. Change

Mayor Bobby Scott, elected in 2021, is seeking a second term. His administration has focused on stabilizing city finances, expanding police resources, and improving parks and recreation. Scott has emphasized his record of "quiet progress," pointing to new business permits, road resurfacing projects, and increased community programming.

"We've laid the groundwork for a stronger Center Point," Scott said at a recent forum. "Now is not the time to change course."

D.M. Collins, who has served on the city council since 2016 and currently holds the role of council president, argues that Center Point needs more aggressive leadership. His campaign has focused on transparency, code enforcement, and neighborhood revitalization. Moore has criticized what he calls "a lack of urgency" in Scott's administration and pledged to "bring energy and accountability back to city hall."

Collins' supporters include younger voters, small business owners, and residents frustrated by blight and crime. Scott's base includes longtime residents, city employees, and those who credit him with restoring stability after years of turnover.

Key Issues: Safety, Blight, and Economic Growth

Public safety remains the top concern for many Center Point residents. The city contracts with the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office for law enforcement, and both candidates have pledged to maintain and expand that partnership. Scott has touted recent increases in patrol coverage and community policing. Moore has called for more visible enforcement and better coordination with neighborhood watch groups.

Blight and code enforcement are also central to the race. Moore has proposed stricter penalties for absentee landlords and faster response times for nuisance complaints. Scott has defended his administration's approach, noting that the city has demolished dozens of abandoned structures and launched a new housing inspection program.

Economic development is a shared priority. Scott points to new retail openings and infrastructure grants as signs of progress. Moore argues that Center Point needs a more proactive strategy to attract investment and revitalize its commercial corridors.

Election Details and Voter Logistics

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Tuesday. Voters must bring a valid photo ID to cast their ballots. All registered voters in Center Point are eligible to vote in the runoff, regardless of whether they participated in the first round.

Polling locations include the Center Point City Hall and the Center Point Community Center. Sample ballots and voter guides are available on the city's official website and through the Jefferson County Board of Registrars.

What's at Stake

The next mayor will oversee a city of roughly 16,000 residents facing both challenges and opportunities. Center Point has struggled with crime, aging infrastructure, and economic stagnation, but it also sits at a strategic crossroads near Birmingham and Trussville.

Scott offers continuity and cautious progress. Collins promises bold action and reform. The choice will determine not just policy direction, but the tone and responsiveness of city government.

Local civic groups, including the Center Point Neighborhood Association and the Eastern Area Chamber of Commerce, have hosted forums and distributed nonpartisan materials to help voters make informed decisions.

Final Thoughts

As Center Point heads into its mayoral runoff, the contrasts between the candidates are clear. Whether voters choose Scott's steady leadership or Moore's reformist agenda, the outcome will shape the city's future on issues ranging from safety and housing to business development and civic trust.

With turnout expected to be decisive, residents are being urged to show up and speak out. The future of Center Point - its neighborhoods, its economy, and its identity - will be shaped by the voices heard on Tuesday.