Election Guide
Anniston, Alabama Municipal Election August 26, 2025
Your Guide to Your Election
Alabama Forward is a statewide civic engagement organization committed to bringing together progressive 501(c)(3) organizations to work together in building power around civic issues. Alabama Forward is committed to a democratic process in which every Alabamian can engage, and in pursuit of this mission, we want to help you make your voice heard at the polls.
This non-partisan guide provides candidate bios and voting information. We do not endorse anyone; we want you to decide which candidates best represent you and your community. To learn more about Alabama Forward, please visit alforward.org
Important Dates
Last day to register to vote
Last day to vote absentee in person
Deadline to hand deliver an absentee ballot
Election Day
Run-off Election
August 11, 2025
August 21, 2025
August 25, 2025
August 26, 2025 September 23, 2025
YourVotingPlan
Gotomyinfo.alabamavotes.gov/voterviewtocheckyourregistration status,yourpollinglocation,andyourdistricts.Thenfilloutthisvoting plan.Planningaheadincreasesthelikelihoodyou’llvote!
Voter Qualifications
Am I registered at my current address and under my current name?
Is my voter registration status “active”?
I will use this photo ID to vote:
Driver License or Non-Driver ID
U.S. Passport
Government Employee ID
Student or Employee ID from a college or university in Alabama (or another state college)
Valid Military ID
Valid Tribal ID
Alabama Photo Voter ID Card (from the Board of Registrars or the Secretary of State)
Absentee Voting
See alabamavotes.gov for criteria and instructions.
Do I want to vote absentee?
I will vote absentee: By mail
At the City Clerk’s office
Voting on Election Day
My polling location for municipal elections: ____________________
To get to the polls I will:
Drive my vehicle
Walk
Use public transit
Get a ride with a friend
Use a rideshare service
Contact a group offering rides
Voter Eligibility
Will you be at least 18 years old on Election Day?
You are not eligible at this time, but you can still make an impact!
See pg 5
eligible to vote!
Are you a U.S. citizen?
Do you have a previous conviction you believe disqualifies you?
You may still be eligible! See pg. 3.
Register to Vote
If you’re voting for the first time or need to update your information, be sure to register to vote at least 15 days before the election.
Five options for registering:
1.Register online at alabamavotes.gov. You will need a valid Alabama driver license or non-driver ID.
2.Download, print, and mail a paper form from alabamavotes.gov.
3.Register at your Board of Registrars. See pg. 27 for the address.
4.Request a form be mailed to you, then mail it back. See pg. 27 for how to contact the Secretary of State or the Board of Registrars.
5.Go to the public library, the DMV, or another government office that offers benefits. They usually have forms on hand.
Once registered, you will receive a postcard in the mail confirming your registration. You can also check your voter registration status at myinfo.alabamavotes.gov/voterview.
The Voting Process
Get in line.
Polling places are open 7 am to 7 pm.
Fill out your ballot.
Black pens provided.
Poll workers will scan it. Sign and accept a receipt.
Turn in your ballot. Feed it into the machine.
Pick up your ballot.
Present your photo ID. Trade the receipt for a ballot.
At the polls, you have the right to:
Cast your vote if you’re in line when the polls close. Stay in line!
Receive a new ballot if you make a mistake on yours.
Vote by provisional ballot if your registration or eligibility is challenged.
Vote free from intimidation. Voter intimidation is illegal. Report any intimidation to poll workers and document and report the incident to local election administrators such as the Municipal Clerk, the County Board of Registrar, and the County District Attorney.
Bring your phone or other materials to help you decide how to vote.
Receive assistance and accommodations for your disability. Bring a friend or an interpreter to help you vote.
Voting FAQs
“Who should I vote for?”
We can’t answer that question for you, but we are happy to offer tips on figuring out who best represents you!
Step 1: Find out who is on your ballot.
Visit myinfo.alabamavotes.gov/voterview to find out your municipal district. Then use this guide or a sample ballot from the City Clerk to find the City Council and Board of Education candidates for your district. All mayoral candidates will also be on your ballot.
Step 2: Learn about your candidates.
Read the candidate bios in this guide to get started. Ask yourself, “Where do they stand on local issues important to me?” and “How does their background or voting record align with my vision for my city?” You can also dig deeper:
Attend a candidate forum or a townhall. Visit candidates’ websites or social media pages. Read Council and Board meeting minutes to check voting records. Look into their campaign financing at fcpa.alabamavotes.gov.
Step 3: Make note of your picks. You can mark up this guide and take it with you to the polls.
“I am a student. Where do I register?”
Undergrad or grad students can register either with their school address OR at their family’s residence. Consider where you feel most connected and informed or where your vote has the biggest impact.
Where you register will not impact your financial aid package, your parents’ ability to claim you as a dependent on their taxes, or where you can get a driver license or register your car.
“I have
a criminal conviction. Can I vote?”
Not all criminal convictions prevent you from registering to vote in Alabama. For most convictions that disqualify you from voting, there is a process for restoring your voting rights so you can register.
Our partner organization Return My Vote will help you determine your voting eligibility and walk you through the process of registering or restoring your right to vote. Visit returnmyvote.org for more information and to request a free consultation.
“I am trans. How do I avoid issues while voting?”
Know that you have rights. If the gender marker on your ID does not match your presentation and/or identity, poll workers are NOT allowed to deny you a ballot OR ask you questions about your trans identity or medical history.
Here are some tips to help voting go more smoothly: Use your government name. Register to vote using the legal name and gender marker on your state-issued ID. Keep things up-to-date. Update your registration if you change your legal name, gender marker, or address. Take your ID(s). Only one form of ID is required to vote on Election Day, but you may want to bring any additional IDs, a recent utility bill, and/or your voter registration card to help prove your identity in the event of a dispute. See pg. 5 for eligible IDs.
You can bring a buddy with you to vote. You are allowed to bring along a friend, whether they vote in the same location or not, to be your moral support. While you’re at it, your group of friends could organize to accompany each other to your different polling places.
If you run into any issues at the polls, call the National Trans Voter Protection hotline at 239–946–2718. For more resources and support for trans people, reach out to TAKE Birmingham at takebhm.org or 205–848–5849.
“What disability accommodations may I receive?”
Unless otherwise declared by a judge, people with mental and physical disabilities have the right to vote in an accessible way. You also have the right to vote for whom or for what you choose.
Possible accommodations for different disabilities include:
Every polling site offers accessible voting machines. These machines must provide the same chance for meaningful voting participation, including privacy and independence. Disabled voters and voters over the age of 70 may move to the front of the voting line if they notify a poll worker.
People with disabilities have the right to receive voting assistance from a person of their choice or from a poll worker. Election officials must provide you access to any voting booth, ballot, form, machine, or equipment that would help you vote. They must be willing to adapt if you can’t use the equipment provided.
For more, visit adap.ua.edu or reach out to the Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program’s Voting Rights Advocate at 205-348-0123.
How City Government Operates
Mayor + City Council: How do they work together?
In city government, the Mayor is the head of the executive branch and the City Council is the legislative branch. They are elected every four years.
Budgets
The Mayor proposes the Operating and Capital Budgets. The City Council can propose certain edits pending the Mayor’s approval. The City Council passes the budgets after a public hearing. The Mayor’s Office then administers the budgets and all city finances.
Passing ordinances
The Mayor and the City Council may propose ordinances, the City Council may vote to pass them, and the Mayor may sign, veto, or let them pass. If the Mayor vetoes an ordinance, two-thirds of the council may override the veto and pass it. The Mayor then enforces all laws and ordinances.
Departments and personnel
The City Council establishes administrative departments and divisions, and the Mayor appoints, supervises, and removes the personnel in those roles City Council members only supervise their own staff. The Mayor also has a staff and establishes departments within the Mayor’s Office. The Mayor and the City Council appoint people to some boards and agencies.
HowtoGetInvolvedwithLocalGovernment:
AttendCityCouncilmeetingseveryfirstandthirdTuesdayat 5:00PMforworksessionsandformalcouncilmeetings. CouncilandcommitteemeetingsarelivestreamedontheCity CouncilFacebookpageanduploadedontoYouTube. YoumayrequesttospeakatyourCityCouncilmeetingbyfilling outtheformlistedherehttps://annistonal.gov/city-council/. ParticipateinyourNeighborhoodAssociation.Tofindoutifyour neighborhoodhasonecheckhttps://annistonal.gov/linksresources/formoreinformation.
BoardofEducation
The Anniston Board of Education consists of five members, one from each Ward and a president representing the entire city, who serve four-year terms overseeing operations of the city school system.
The city Board of Education hires and fires the Superintendent, Chief Financial Officer, and General Counsel, and all subordinate offices for the school district. The Board technically acts as a policy making group, where a Superintendent is appointed to write and supervise policy efforts regarding education. The Board reviews policies for public schools, finalizes the budget and school calendar, and oversees business and salary reports related to the school system.
HowtoGetInvolvedwiththeSchoolSystem:
• Attend Board of Education meetings: official dates and times are listed on annistoncityschools.com. The third Thursday of each month at 4:00PM, excluding special meetings and events is often when the Board meets.
• Attend PTA meetings at your child’s school. You can form a group if one does not exist.
We work to empower our communities to rise up and get involved. From the streets to the voting booth; where our voices matter, where our stories shape the future, and where we build power together. Let’s shake things up and make sure Alabama knows we’re here to stay!
Scan the QR code on the cover to take action in one of these ways: Volunteer: Sign up to support events and initiatives near you. Spread the Word: Share our mission with your network and invite others to join.
Stay Connected: Follow us on social media for updates, event announcements, and ways to take action.
Candidates for Mayor
We do not endorse any candidates. An ‘*’ is listed beside incumbent candidates.
☐ Kevin Cheatwood
Kevin Cheatwood is a lifelong Anniston resident and current real estate agent who graduated from Jacksonville State University with a Bachelor’s of Science in Nursing. Cheatwood has worked previously as a Registered Nurse and now co-owns Ten28 Properties. He also previously served on Anniston's Historic Preservation Commission, where he advocated for responsible redevelopment and fiscal transparency. Cheatwood’s campaign is centered on reducing bureaucracy, improving educational outcomes, attracting business investment, and increasing transparency in city hall. Throughout his campaign, Cheatwood has highlighted the importance of regional collaboration, particularly building on healthcare partnerships with RMC and better leveraging the local airport, as well as action against property abandonment and degradation.
☐ Steven Folks
Steven Folks is a lifelong resident of Anniston. He spent 30 years in city government, holding roles such as Recreation Aide, Community Center Director, and Parks and Recreation Director. He served six years as Anniston’s City Manager, acting as the city’s chief executive and overseeing all departments and operations. Folks served in the U.S. Army Military Police Corps as Platoon Sergeant, Senior Drill Sergeant, First Sergeant, and Battalion Operations Sergeant prior to his retirement. He holds an associate’s from Gadsden State and a bachelor’s from Jacksonville State. He has been active in ICMA, ACCMA, the Community Foundation of Northeast Alabama board, and the Boys & Girls Club, and he is a member of the Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Folks says his mayoral candidacy highlights his leadership experience and commitment to managing city affairs with experience, accountability, and community focus.
Ben Little is a lifelong resident of Anniston and has served as a member of the Anniston City Council since 2000, representing Ward3. A retired First Sergeant in the U S , he served from 1975 to 1995 before transitioning into university and then public service. Little has also served as the pastor at Refuge Full Gospel Methodist Church in Anniston for the past 21 years. Over his council tenure, Little played a key role in economic development projects, such as expansions for Walmart, bringing Lowe’s to the city, securing tax abatements, and restoring Greyhound bus service to Anniston Little’s campaign focuses on improving education, crime prevention and healthcare in Anniston, with an emphasis on sanitation improvement and general infrastructure investment. Little was convicted for a conflict of interest vote in 2019, where he voted ‘no’ to abating abandoned vehicles on his and his church's possession.
☐ Ciara Smith*
Ciara Smith is a lifelong Anniston resident and former Vice Mayor and City Councilor for Ward3. She graduated from Anniston High School and Spelman College, and completed her Master of Public Administration (Emergency Management concentration) at Jacksonville State University. Smith worked in the City of Anniston’s Financial Department. While at Spelman, she campaigned for Atlanta Mayor Keisha Lance Bottoms, interned with U.S. Congressman Hank Johnson, and was chosen for the Congressional Black Caucus Institute boot camp She apprenticed with JP Morgan & Chase through their Advancing Black Pathways program. In November 2020, at age 21, she became Anniston’s youngest-ever elected official when she won the Ward 3 council seat. In 2025, after former Mayor Draper’s resignation, Smith became Anniston’s first Black mayor, second female mayor, and youngest mayor ever.
☐ Michael Woods
Michael Woods is a freelance professional and relative newcomer to Anniston, having made the city his home just four years ago. Woods describes himself as a candidate who “wants change,” advocating for a city where residents’ voices are truly heard and concerns addressed. He emphasizes that while he won’t make unrealistic promises, he will commit to doing everything in his power to improve Anniston He cites community feedback from NextDoor, missing-pet posters, or conversations about aging infrastructure and financial hardship as central to his campaign messaging. His platform prioritizes revitalizing abandoned homes and storefronts, supporting small businesses, and enhancing public safety and cleanliness. He envisions transforming neglected spaces into new businesses, homes, and community gathering places. Woods pledges to be an accessible mayor, especially for those who feel ignored or overlooked.
Candidates for City Council
We do not endorse any candidates. An ‘*’ is listed beside incumbent candidates. Unopposed candidates will not appear on the ballot.
Ward 1
☐ Lewis Downing*
Lewis Downing is a lifelong resident and business leader in Anniston, where he currently serves as the Ward1 City Council member. Downing attended the University of Alabama and Jacksonville State University, while working for his family's business. He operates the family-owned business Downing & Sons, which he has led since acquiring ownership in 2017. Downing’s civic involvement positions include: Vice-Chairman at Anniston Downtown Development Authority, where he supported and shaped downtown economic development; Chairman at Main Street Anniston, a group focused on revitalizing the downtown core and supporting local businesses and cultural outreach; and Board Member, West Anniston Community Development and Spirit of Anniston. Downing intends to focus on supporting small businesses, providing honest leadership, and strengthening public involvement via local initiatives.
☐ Ben New
Ben New is an Anniston resident who stepped into local leadership through service on the city's comprehensive plan steering committee, where he contributed to drafting zoning ordinance updates and longrange visioning efforts. He highlights the city’s growing budget, from $30million to $45million, as a sign of potential for development and new revenue. Running for Ward1 council seat, New emphasizes practical goals: revitalizing neighborhoods, attracting investment, and expanding the tax base. He positions himself as responsive and hands-on, saying, “I’m ready and want to serve the people of Ward1. I will always be available.” New’s policy priorities include improving sanitation services, supporting small businesses, and ensuring accessible government. His campaign refrain, “ new development, new growth, new tax base,” underscores a vision anchored in steady, measurable progress.
☐ John Squires
John Squires is a military veteran and hiring manager at On TimeStaffing who has entered the race for Anniston’s Ward1 council seat. Originally from Illinois, he brings experience from managing workforce placement and states a stated commitment to his adopted community. During a recent candidate forum, Squires emphasized the need for practical solutions to local issues including waste management, public safety, and downtown revitalization He positions himself as responsive and available, aiming to bridge constituent concerns directly with City Hall. His educational background includes a paralegal degree from El Centro College in Dallas and a political science degree from Jacksonville State University. Squires hopes to increase employment opportunities, education outcomes, sanitation infrastructure, and access to veterans benefits.
☐ Brenton Tolson
Brenton Tolson is Jacksonville State University degree holder and Anniston resident, with a campaign focused on addressing poverty through youth development programs. Tolson previously ran for Ward 3 City Council in 2016. Though relatively new to electoral politics, Tolson has been active in local discussions around infrastructure, public safety, and downtown development, positioning himself as responsive to constituent needs. At a recent forum hosted by the Calhoun County Chamber & Visitors Center, he outlined priorities like improving waste management, enhancing neighborhood aesthetics, and supporting small businesses. Tolson frames his campaign around accessible leadership, stating that he wants to “bring change” and ensure that residents of Ward1 have their voices heard His platform highlights pragmatic improvements aimed at growing community trust and investment.
☐ Dann Huguley
Dann Huguley is a long time Anniston resident and a pastor at Haven United Methodist and St. John United Methodist churches. Huguley ran for City Council in 2020, and his current campaign emphasizes fiscal accountability, transparency, and measured growth for his neighborhood. Huguley has spotlighted the need for better sanitation, infrastructure maintenance, and downtown revitalization, positioning himself as a practical problem‑solver who prioritizes clear communication with residents. Huguley earned a degree in carpentry from Ayers Technical College, which is now part of Gadsden State. Huguley completed ministry studies at Emory Licensing School in Atlanta. His campaign centers on clean streets, stronger housing, and responsible city planning to deliver measurable results for Ward2.
☐ Demetric ‘D.D.’ Roberts*
Demetric “D.D.” Roberts is a lifelong Anniston resident and graduate of Anniston High School, where he played football. He earned dual bachelor’s degrees in Accounting and Computer Information Systems from Grambling State Roberts currently works as a Materials Planner at BAE Systems and previously held roles at Bridgewater Interiors, including Senior Materials Analyst. He has coached city league sports, substitute taught, and served as Anniston High’s football public address announcer. Roberts is a member of Jackson Pride Masonic Lodge and Omega Psi Phi and has organized or participated in many community programs, including food drives, voter registration events, and Adopt-A-Mile cleanups. He is focusing on neighborhood revitalization, youth outreach, and responsive leadership.
☐ La Sha’ Robinson
LaSha’Robinson is a semi retired business owner and longtime community advocate who moved to Anniston from California, via Georgia, in 2022. Robinson states she is aiming to bring her experience in nonprofit leadership and civic engagement to the role. Robinson frames her campaign as a “call to action,” focused on sustainable infrastructure, cleaner streets, safer transportation, and revitalizing neglected public spaces. She emphasizes inclusive decision making and dialogue, seeking to rebuild trust between residents and city government without relying on lofty promises. Her goal is thoughtful, visible change—restoring community pride by improving neighborhoods and ensuring Ward 2 reflects the potential of the broader “Model City.”
☐ Erica Tolson
Erica Tolson is a lifelong Anniston resident and first-time candidate for the Ward2 City Council seat. At a recent candidate forum, she made citywide cleanup her top priority, stating, “My first project would be cleaning up the entire city, not just my ward.” Tolson’s campaign emphasizes practical improvements: restoring free trash pickup, enhancing public safety through better lighting, and working with the school board to promote educational equity. She positions herself as accessible and accountable, promising to keep residents’ concerns at the forefront and to follow through on her commitments. Tolson aims to address visible neighborhood issues with solutions that build trust and reflect Anniston’s potential for steady, community-focused progress.
☐ Joe Harrington*
Joe Nathan Harrington is a U.S. Army veteran who has lived in Anniston since 1973. He served over 20 years in the Military Police Corps, where he held supervisory roles and worked in areas including security operations and personnel management. After retiring from the military in 1997, Harrington earned a degree in Early Childhood Education from Jacksonville State University. He worked with local youth programs and later started a lawn care business, which he has operated for more than two decades. Harrington has remained active in his community through volunteer work, mentoring, and supporting neighborhood events. His background combines structured leadership from the military with hands-on experience as a small business owner and educator. Harrington is known for approaching problems with a practical mindset and has built long-standing relationships across Anniston through consistent involvement in civic and community-focused efforts.
Circuit Court Judge (10th Judicial Circuit)
☐ Julie Moss
Circuit Court is the highest court in the county. The circuit courts are where jury trials take place. In most Alabama counties, the circuit courts hear both civil and criminal cases. In Jefferson County there is a civil division and a criminal division. The jurisdiction and powers of the circuit court are set forth by statute.
Julie Moss is a lifelong Anniston resident from the Golden Springs neighborhood, now campaigning for the Ward4 City Council seat. She previously served as Executive Director of the McClellan Development Authority, where she led planning and economic growth efforts for the former Army base. With a background in marketing and business development, Moss emphasizes improving city services, supporting small businesses, and promoting inclusive development across neighborhoods. At a community meet-and-greet hosted at Classic on Noble, she spoke of Anniston being “at a crossroads” and called for steady, experienced leadership grounded in transparency and stronger community support. Moss frames her campaign around delivering practical results—such as reliable sanitation services and accessible communication while seeking growth that benefits all parts of Anniston.
☐ Ashley Wilson
Ashley Wilson is a lifelong resident of Calhoun County and a special education teacher at Oxford High School with a decade of experience in public education. She holds a bachelor’s degree in Education from Jacksonville State University, along with master’s degrees in Special Education and School Psychometry. Wilson’s campaign focuses on improving education access, public safety, and city services like trash collection. At recent community events, she called for stronger support for the Anniston Police Department and more reliable sanitation services. She also stressed the importance of open communication between residents and elected officials, highlighting accessibility and transparency as key to rebuilding trust in local government. Wilson’s platform names a commitment to addressing community concerns with practical, achievable goals aimed at improving the quality of life in Ward4.
Candidates for School Board
We do not endorse any candidates. An ‘*’ is listed beside Incumbent Candidates. Unopposed candidates will not appear on the ballot.
Ward 1
☐ Elizabeth Anderson
Dottie Rimpsey is an Assistant Professor of Mass Media Studies at Talladega College, where she has taught courses such as Broadcast Writing, Media Law, Media Theory, and the Senior Project since 2017. She also oversees the department’s internship program, helping students gain hands-on experience in the media industry. Her career began as an intern at TV40 News in Anniston, and she later worked as a producer at WFSB Channel 3 in Hartford, Connecticut, gaining direct experience in broadcast journalism. Rimpsey has also worked as a program manager for nonprofit organizations in Anniston, including Big Brothers Big Sisters and Concern for Children, where she focused on youth development and community outreach. Rimpsey is the creator and host of Local Matters with Dottie Rimpsey, a weekly local television program that highlights community issues and provides media production opportunities for students.
Ward 2
☐ Rodney Fomby
Rodney Fomby is a lifelong Anniston resident and experienced education advocate running for the Ward2 seat on the Anniston City Schools Board. He attended Lincoln High School and later studied at Talladega College. Fomby currently works at the local Juvenile Probation Office, where he engages directly with young people and families facing challenges. He has been active in community efforts around youth development and civic engagement and recently announced his candidacy with support from local residents, including his wife Vicki. Though he did not submit a formal campaign platform, he says his interest in the school board reflects a broader focus on improving student support and enhancing educational outcomes 11
☐ Trudy Moses-Munford*
Trudy Moses-Munford is a two-term incumbent on the Anniston City Board of Education, representing Ward 2 A native of Anniston, she earned her bachelor’s degree from Florida A&M University and later completed a master’s in counseling from Canisius College. Her career spans classroom teaching, nonprofit leadership, and adult education. She taught in Buffalo Public Schools and Erie Community College’s Urban Center, helped develop the University at Buffalo’s Educational Opportunity Center, and directed programs focused on peer tutoring, substance abuse counseling, and personal development. Moses-Munford was also active in the Civil Rights Movement and participated in demonstrations that led to her arrest and interrogation. Her approach to board service centers on practical oversight, including reviewing outdated policies, supporting transparency, and strengthening collaboration between schools, families, and the community She is seeking a third term with a continued focus on equity, engagement, and student opportunity. 16
Ward 3
☐ Mary Harrington
Mary L. Harrington serves as the representative for Ward 3 on the Anniston City Board of Education. She has been a member of the board since 2008 and was most recently certified for another term in 2025. Dr. Harrington holds a bachelor’s degree in English and special education from Alabama State University, a master’s degree in counseling from Jacksonville State University, and a doctorate in educational administration from the University of Alabama. Her professional career includes years of service in the Cleburne County School System, where she worked as both a teacher and an administrator. Throughout her time on the board, Dr. Harrington has been actively involved in decisions related to school facilities, financial oversight, and educational policy She says her long-standing dedication to education reflects her deep commitment to the students and families of Anniston.
☐ Joan Frazier*
Joan Frazier is the incumbent representative for Ward4 on the Anniston City Board of Education and is seeking re-election in the upcoming August26,2025, municipal election. She has served on the board since 2016 and currently holds the position of vice president. Frazier is a retired educator with a long career in Anniston City Schools and holds a degree from Jacksonville State University. Her background includes decades of classroom experience and a continued commitment to supporting local education through board service. During her tenure, she has participated in key decisions related to academic programs, personnel, school finance, and student services. Known for her steady leadership, she has regularly taken on presiding responsibilities at board meetings. Frazier’s platform emphasizes maintaining stability, improving educational outcomes, and ensuring that board decisions reflect the needs of students, families, and school staff across the district. 15
☐ Thomas Hobgood
Thomas Hobgood is a resident of Anniston Alabama who has attended Jacksonville State University. He has over 17 years of experience teaching in Alabama, serving students in both rural and urban districts, and working with youth involved in the judicial system. He currently works as an instructor with the Jefferson County Board of Education, based in Bessemer, Alabama, where he supports classroom instruction and curriculum development. Hobgood entered education later than many, he stated, and has demonstrated a commitment to supporting students and staff across multiple school systems. His platform as a school board candidate emphasizes building on what works in Anniston schools, repairing what does not, and fostering an environment of respect and opportunity for faculty, staff, parents and students. 13
Candidates for At Large— School Board President
We do not endorse any candidates.
☐ Trina Chatman
Trina Chatman is an Anniston Alabama resident who previously attended Anniston High School, and then Jacksonville State University with a major in Exercise Science and Wellness and a Minor in Community Health. She currently works as a bus driver for Calhoun County Schools. Chatman describes herself as being skilled in nonprofit organizations, customer service, strategic planning, and nonprofit volunteering. Her campaign centers around addressing school finances, after-school and mentoring programs, and teacher support.
☐ Donald Gilley
Donald Gilley is a lifelong resident of Anniston. A graduate of Cobb High School, now known as Anniston High, Gilley spent many years working in Anniston City Schools as both a teacher and a counselor. He served more than 30 years with the Anniston Fire Department, retiring as fire chief. In that role, he supervised a staff of over 80, managed multiple facilities, and oversaw the department’s multimillion-dollar budget. Gilley emphasizes his deep roots in the community and a career dedicated to public service. His campaign focuses on bringing his leadership experience and educational insight to the school board, with a goal of supporting students, families, and school staff through thoughtful, informed decision-making.
☐ Robert Houston*
Robert Houston is the incumbent at-large representative and president of the BOE. Houston says his time on the board has been a period of active governance and emphasizes collaboration with district leadership and efforts to support academic progress, staffing, and fiscal oversight. He has presided over decisions affecting district operations, including budgeting, curriculum, and school facilities. Before joining the board, Houston represented Ward 3 on the Anniston City Council for 16 years and contributed to infrastructure, community development, and public engagement initiatives. His current campaign emphasizes continuity, leadership experience, and a commitment to maintaining the progress made during his tenure
Ward 1
Polling Places
• Senior Therapeutic Center: 980 Littlebrandt Drive
• First Presbyterian Church: 1701 Henry Road
Ward 2
• Anniston Regional Fire Training Center: 5302 McClellan Blvd
• Carver Community Center: 720 West 14th Street
• Wiggins Community Center: 220 West 17th Street
Ward 3
• Anniston City Meeting Center: 1615 Noble Street
• South Highland Community Center: 229 South Allen Avenue
Ward 4
• Anniston Country Club: 601 Highland Avenue
• Norwood Hodges Community Center: 1325 Spring Valley Road
Helpful contacts
Secretary of State
AlabamaState Capitol Building - Suite S-105 600 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130 334-242-7200
Board of Registrars
Calhoun County 1702 Noble St, Suite 113
Anniston, Alabama 36201
256-241-2930
Location 1129 Noble Street Anniston, AL 36201
Anniston City Clerk’s Office Phone 256-231-7710
Mailing Address P.O. Box 2168
Anniston, AL 36202-2168
National Election Protection Hotlines
English: 1-866-687-8683 (The Lawyers Committee for Civil Rights Under the Law)
Spanish: 1-888-839-8682 (NALEO Educational Fund)
Arabic: 1-844-925-5287 (Yalla Vote)
Bengali, Cantonese, Hindi, Urdu, Korean, Mandarin, Tagalog, or Vietnamese: 1-888-274-8683 (APIAVote and AAJC)
Alabama Election Protection Network
1-844-458-6837
