Southside's Runoff Election: Snyder vs. Statum in a Race for Leadership and Direction

SOUTHSIDE, AL - Voters in Southside, Alabama will return to the polls on Tuesday, September 23, to decide the city's next mayor and settle key council seats in a runoff election that has drawn sharp attention across Etowah County. After a competitive first round on August 26, no candidate secured a majority in several races, triggering a runoff between the top two vote-getters.

At the center of the contest is the mayoral race between incumbent Dana Snyder and Etowah County Commissioner Joey Statum - two figures with deep local ties and contrasting visions for Southside's future.

Mayoral Showdown: Experience vs. Expansion

Dana Snyder, the current mayor, earned 31.63% of the vote in August, trailing Statum's 40.72%. Former councilman Dan Childs, who received 27.65%, was eliminated but remains influential among voters seeking a more traditional, small-town approach to governance.

Snyder has emphasized continuity, community engagement, and cautious growth. Her administration has focused on infrastructure upgrades, recreational development, and maintaining Southside's family-friendly character. In a recent interview, Snyder said, "We've made real progress, and I believe the people of Southside want leadership that listens and builds with care."

Joey Statum's campaign Facebook

Joey Statum

Statum, by contrast, has campaigned on expanding Southside's economic footprint and modernizing city services. With support from business leaders and regional conservatives, he's positioned himself as a candidate who can "take Southside to the next level." His background as a county commissioner gives him regional clout, and his campaign has focused on attracting new development, improving traffic flow, and strengthening public safety.

Council Races: Place 1 in Focus

In addition to the mayoral runoff, voters will decide the outcome of Council Place 1, where Keith Clay and Blake Hayban advanced from a three-way race. Clay led with 45.38% of the vote, followed by Hayban with 28.24%, and Kevin Stephens with 26.39%.

Clay, a longtime civic volunteer, has emphasized transparency and fiscal responsibility. Hayban, a local entrepreneur, has focused on youth engagement and small business support. Both candidates have pledged to improve communication between city hall and residents, especially on zoning and infrastructure issues.

Election Details and Voter Logistics

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Southside Community Center, located at 2142 Highway 77. Voters must bring a valid photo ID to cast their ballots. Turnout in the August election was moderate, and both campaigns are urging residents to show up for the runoff, which could be decided by a few hundred votes.

Sample ballots and candidate information are available on the City of Southside's official website. Local civic groups have also distributed nonpartisan guides to help voters understand the stakes and platforms.

What's at Stake

The outcome of Tuesday's runoff will shape Southside's trajectory for years to come. With growth pressures from nearby Gadsden and Birmingham, the city faces decisions about annexation, infrastructure, and identity. Will Southside lean into regional expansion, or preserve its small-town character?

Snyder offers steady leadership and a cautious approach to development. Statum promises bold action and regional integration. Clay and Hayban represent different visions for civic engagement and council oversight.

For voters, the choice is not just about personalities - it's about priorities. Roads, schools, parks, and public safety are all on the table. And with Etowah County's political landscape shifting, Southside's leadership will play a key role in shaping the region's future.

Final Thoughts

As Southside heads into its runoff election, the stakes are high and the contrasts are clear. Whether voters choose continuity or change, the decision will reflect the values and vision of a community at a crossroads.