TARRANT ELECTION GUIDE
YOUR GUIDE TO YOUR ELECTION
We believe in building a brighter, more inclusive future for Alabama. We do that by showing up in our communities and getting involved. From the streets to the voting booth, our voices matter, our stories shape the future, and we build power together.
This non-partisan guide can help you make your voice heard at the polls. We provide candidate bios and voting information. We do not endorse anyone; we want you to decide which candidates best represent you and your community.
IMPORTANT DATES
Last day to register to vote August 11, 2025
Last day to vote absentee in person August 21, 2025
Deadline to hand deliver an absentee ballot August 25, 2025
Election Day August 26, 2025
YOUR VOTING PLAN
Go to myinfo.alabamavotes.gov/voterview to check your registration status, your polling location, and your districts. Then fill out this voting plan. Planning ahead increases the likelihood you’ll vote!
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?
YES NO
I will vote absentee:
BY MAIL AT THE CITY CLERK’S OFFICE
VOTING ON ELECTION DAY
My polling location for municipal elections: I will vote
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
In the morning
At lunchtime
In the afternoon In the evening
Polls are open from 7 am to 7 pm.
VOTING ELIGIBILTY
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.
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 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
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 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 town hall. 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.
VOTING FAQs
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.
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 205348-0123.
VOTING FAQs
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 hot line at 239–946–2718. For more resources and support for trans people, reach out to TAKE Birmingham at takebhm.org or 205–848–5849.
HOW CITY GOVERNMENT OPERATES
MAYOR + CITY COUNCIL:
HOW DO THEY WORK TOGETHER?
Tarrant’s city government is a Mayor–Council System, where legislative power resides with the elected council, and the Mayor serves as a presiding executive with limited, non-permanent voting authority. The council sets policy, approves spending, and enforces the city’s laws, while the Mayor oversees day-to-day operations and helps shape the executive direction—acting as a partner, not sole authority.
BUDGETS
The Mayor proposes both the Operating and Capital Budgets each fiscal year, based on departmental needs and projected revenues. Once submitted, the City Council reviews the proposed budgets and may recommend edits, which are subject to the Mayor’s approval. After public input is received during an official hearing, the City Council adopts the final budgets. Following adoption, the Mayor’s Office is responsible for administering the budgets and managing all city finances in accordance with the approved plan.
PASSING ORDINANCES
The Mayor or any City Council member may propose an ordinance. It is introduced during a council meeting and entered into the public record. After discussion and possible amendments, the City Council votes on whether to adopt it. If the ordinance passes, the Mayor may sign it into law, veto it, or take no action, allowing it to become law automatically. If the Mayor issues a veto, the City Council can override it with a two-thirds majority vote. Once adopted, the Mayor is responsible for enforcing the ordinance through the appropriate city departments.
DEPARTMENTS AND PERSONNEL
The City Council has the authority to establish city departments and divisions by ordinance, while the Mayor is responsible for appointing, supervising, and, when necessary, removing personnel within those departments. Council members do not have individual staff and do not oversee day-to-day operations. The Mayor also leads the administrative functions of the Mayor’s Office and may organize internal departments as needed to carry out executive duties. Together, the Mayor and City Council share the responsibility of appointing individuals to serve on various boards, commissions, and advisory agencies throughout the city.
HOW TO GET INVOLVED
Attend City Council meetings every 1 and 3 Monday at 7:00 pm to hear the Mayor’s report and watch the Council pass ordinances.
Apply for an appointment to a board by submitting a letter of interest is all that is needed to apply. Once there is a vacancy it is announced at council meetings and posted at city hall, post office, library and social media.
MAYOR
Wayman Newton INCUMBENT
Wayman Newton is a lifelong resident of the Birmingham area who grew up in the Collegeville neighborhood. Since being elected mayor of Tarrant in 2020, he has focused on making city government more transparent, improving public safety, and investing in programs that support families, seniors, and small businesses. He has worked to restore dignity to City Hall, clean up neglected neighborhoods, and make sure city resources are used to serve the people—not special interests. With a background in both law and business, Mayor Newton brings practical experience and steady leadership to the job. He’s running for re-election to continue building a safer, stronger, and more united Tarrant—one that truly takes care of its people.
Jack 'Berry' Evans Jr.
Jack 'Berry' Evans Jr. is a lifelong Tarrant native, Marine Corps veteran, and award-winning attorney with a career dedicated to education, housing justice, and public service. He’s served as Director of Sylvan Learning in Trussville and led investigations into housing discrimination across Northern Alabama. Evans holds a degree in Oppression Studies from the University of Alabama and a law degree from Hofstra University. He’s running for Mayor to restore transparency at City Hall, revitalize the business district, support seniors and youth, and fully include Tarrant’s Latino community in civic life. A champion for restorative justice and sanctuary policies, Evans brings proven leadership and a vision for a united, inclusive, and forward-moving Tarrant.
Tracie B. Threadford
Tracie B. Threadford is a longtime Tarrant resident and dedicated public servant, currently serving as Mayor Pro Tem since 2020. With a master’s in business management and a heart for service, she combines practical leadership with a deep commitment to her community. From PTO Secretary to Band Booster, Tracie has always shown up for Tarrant families. Now, she’s running for Mayor to tackle key challenges—revitalizing neighborhoods, restoring reliable trash collection, and investing in youth education. She plans to enforce stronger property codes, improve city services, and work with schools to create better opportunities for students. Tracie believes that clean streets, safe homes, and strong schools are essential to a thriving Tarrant.
DISTRICT 1
Veronica Bandy-Freeman INCUMBENT
Veronica Bandy-Freeman (incumbent) has proudly represented District 1 since 2020 and has lived in the Brummit Heights community for 24 years. A Certified and Advanced Municipal Official, she serves on state and national boards focused on economic mobility, equity, and women in government. During her tenure, she’s reinstated Neighborhood Watch, secured traffic safety improvements, installed district cameras, and led Tarrant’s first community prayer walk. She’s organizing a cooling/warming station for the unhoused and continues to advocate for infrastructure, youth programs, economic development, and services for seniors and residents with disabilities. BandyFreeman believes unity and bold leadership are key to revitalizing Tarrant— building a city where everyone has a voice and a path to opportunity.
Charles Johnson
Charles Johnson is a 40-year resident of Tarrant and a dedicated public servant with 15 years of experience in the Tarrant Fire Department. His deep roots in the community and firsthand experience in emergency response shape his commitment to public safety and service. Charles is running for City Council to prioritize essential infrastructure repairs—fixing roads, improving drainage systems, and ensuring neighborhoods are safe and accessible. He strongly supports strengthening the fire department and increasing police presence to keep families and businesses protected. With a hands-on understanding of the city’s needs, Charles Johnson is ready to serve with integrity, action, and a heart for Tarrant.
Waynette Bonham-Adamou
Waynette Bonham-Adamou brings a strong background in tech support, having served with the VA, EPA, and Blue Cross Blue Shield, mastering systems that serve the public and solve complex problems. A longtime community advocate, she’s worked with groups like Offender Alumni Association, Helping Families Initiative, Tarrant Crime Commission, and Yellowhammer Fund. From organizing Trunk or Treat to helping clean up local ball fields, Waynette is hands-on and heart-driven. She envisions Ford Avenue as a vibrant community hub with food trucks, music, and farmers markets. Guided by her grandmother’s wisdom—“Kindness will carry you where a dollar won’t spend”—Waynette brings compassion, strategy, and unity to her run for City Council.
DISTRICT 2
Bruce Cooper
Bruce Cooper is a lifelong resident of Tarrant, an accomplished actor with over 70 film and TV credits, and a former youth pastor with a bachelor’s degree in Biblical Studies. His passion for service and storytelling reflects his commitment to listening, leading, and uplifting others. Bruce is running for City Council to help restore trust in city leadership and ensure that every resident’s voice is heard. He believes Tarrant’s biggest challenges—illegal dumping, gun violence, and lack of unity—require leaders who listen, collaborate, and act. With an open ear, a big heart, and a deep love for his hometown, Bruce Cooper is ready to get to work for the people of Tarrant.
Clara Palmore
Clara Palmore has proudly called Tarrant home for over seven years. A devoted wife of 32 years, mother of five, and grandmother of five, Clara brings both heart and hands-on experience to her run for City Council. With a background in customer service and the medical field, she understands the power of listening, compassion, and community care. Clara is deeply engaged in local life and passionate about building a stronger, more connected Tarrant. She believes in working together, bringing fresh ideas to the table, and ensuring every resident feels seen and heard. With a servant’s heart and a neighbor’s voice, Clara Palmore is ready to help shape a brighter future for Tarrant.
Rodkeisha Ragland
Rodkeisha Ragland is a proud resident of Tarrant with a degree in Business Administration from Jacksonville State University. A former Tarrant court clerk, she brings firsthand knowledge of local government and a passion for service. As an active team mom for the Tarrant City Ducks, she’s deeply involved in youth and community life. Rodkeisha is committed to economic development, neighborhood restoration, and programs that empower the next generation. She advocates for stronger trust between citizens and law enforcement, increased neighborhood cameras, and revitalized neighborhood watch programs. With a focus on unity, safety, and opportunity, Rodkeisha Ragland is ready to serve and strengthen Tarrant from the ground up.
DISTRICT 3
Catherine Anderson INCUMBENT
Catherine Anderson (incumbent) is a lifelong Tarrant resident and proud public servant, currently seeking re-election for her fourth term representing District 3. Deeply rooted in the city’s history, Cathy comes from a family devoted to Tarrant—her father served in law enforcement, her mother worked in local businesses, and her siblings have served in city government and public safety. Cathy herself has volunteered as a firefighter and has worked over 40 years as a licensed insurance agent. She is committed to restoring unity between the Mayor and City Council, strengthening relationships with local businesses, improving city cleanliness and code enforcement, and working closely with schools—because investing in our children is investing in Tarrant’s future.
Alicia Belcher
Alicia Belcher has called Tarrant home for 26 years. Originally from Mt. Olive, she holds degrees in Criminal Justice and Radiologic Technology from Wallace State Community College. Alicia worked for 27 years in the MRI department at Princeton Baptist Medical Center and now serves in the CT department at UAB/ St. Vincent’s. A longtime volunteer with Missing Link Rescue in Gardendale, she’s passionate about animal welfare and giving back to her community. With a heart for service and a background in healthcare, Alicia Belcher is ready to bring compassion, dedication, and practical problem-solving to Tarrant’s City Council.
Valerie McCellan
Valerie McCellan is running for Tarrant City Council, District 3, with a heart for service and a vision for progress. A proud resident of Tarrant for over 20 years, Valerie brings 20 years of military service and 25 years with the State of Alabama to the table. Inspired by her mother’s example, she’s committed to building a stronger community, supporting local businesses, and ensuring every resident has a voice at City Hall. Valerie believes that through unity, compassion, and hard work, we can shape a Tarrant we’re all proud to call home.
DISTRICT 4
Deborah Matthews INCUMBENT
Deborah Matthews (incumbent) has proudly served as the District 4 representative on the Tarrant City Council since 2020. With a focus on public safety, infrastructure, and essential community services, she has worked diligently to improve the quality of life for residents across the district. Deborah is seeking re-election to continue the progress she’s made and to build on her commitment to responsive leadership, neighborhood improvement, and steady city growth. With a passion for public service and a deep love for her community, Deborah Matthews is ready to keep working for a stronger, safer Tarrant.
Donald Little
Donald Little is a lifelong resident of Tarrant with over 30 years of service at Jefferson County Environmental Services and current experience in the trucking industry. Known for his strong work ethic and hands-on knowledge of infrastructure, Donald is running for City Council to bring greater transparency, accountability, and progress to city government. He believes in keeping residents informed, attracting new businesses to expand the tax base, and investing in smart economic growth. With a focus on open governance and community development, Donald is committed to building a stronger Tarrant for all. He and his wife, Elaine, have been married for 43 years.
Troy Adams
Troy Adams is a dedicated family man, local entrepreneur, and owner of a Tarrant-based tow truck business. With a background in transportation, logistics, and customer service, Troy brings practical, real-world problem-solving to his run for City Council. His campaign is rooted in action—not talk—focused on cleaner streets, safer neighborhoods, and stronger support for families and small businesses. Troy believes it’s time for results-driven leadership that puts the needs of residents first. As he says, “More action and less words is how we move Tarrant forward.”
DISTRICT 5
John ‘Tommy’ Bryant INCUMBENT
John ‘Tommy’ Bryant (incumbent) has proudly served the City of Tarrant and District 5 for the past 4.5 years. With valuable experience gained through handson service, he’s ready to continue working with a new council to move Tarrant forward—financially, physically, and as a united community. Tommy believes firmly in upholding the city’s ordinances and resolutions to improve cleanliness, order, and livability across all neighborhoods. He is deeply committed to doing what is right, putting the welfare of Tarrant residents first, and helping shape a city everyone can be proud to call home.
Allen Pilkington
Allen Pilkington is a 2010 graduate of Tarrant High School and has proudly called Tarrant home since 2017. He’s running for City Council District 5 to help restore order, cooperation, and accountability in city government. Allen believes respectful collaboration with fellow officials and residents is key to building a stronger Tarrant. His priorities include strengthening enforcement of city ordinances, revitalizing downtown through smart zoning, developing an infrastructure strategy based on a real budget, improving crime response, and ensuring leaders are accessible and accountable. With a clear plan and a steady voice, Allen Pilkington is ready to help move Tarrant forward together.
HELPFUL CONTACTS
SECRETARY OF STATE
State Capitol Building - Suite S-105 600 Dexter Avenue Montgomery, AL 36130 334-242-7200
CLERK’S OFFICE
LOCATION
716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd No Birmingham, AL 36201
COUNTY CLERK
Jackie Smith 205-326-5550
BOARD OF REGISTRARS
Jefferson County 716 Richard Arrington Jr. Blvd. N Birmingham, Alabama 36203 205326-5550
NATIONAL ELECTION
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)
Special thanks to the volunteer strategists, researchers, writers, and reviewers that have contributed to this guide. Thank you also to the nonprofits, businesses, neighborhood associations, faith groups, libraries, and individuals who help distribute our guide!
EDITOR
Brandon McCray
MORE ABOUT GASP
Our Mission and Vision
Our mission is to enhance the health and wellbeing of Alabamians by reducing air pollution, advancing environmental justice, and promoting climate solutions through education, advocacy, and collaboration. We envision a healthy, just, and thriving Alabama for everyone who lives, works, learns, and worships here. Healthy air is our raison d’etre. We strive to reduce air pollution, to educate the public on the health risks associated with poor air quality and to encourage community leaders to serve as role models for clean air and clean energy development. We provide the tools communities need to make healthy choices. We use the power of the law to strengthen air regulations, air pollution permits, and enforcement. Our aim is simple: healthier air for everyone no matter their zip code, race, or income. We also offer presentations to community groups, clubs, churches, and other gatherings. GASP is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit membership organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
Our Core Beliefs
Everyone has a right to breathe healthy air.
Health should be a top priority when making laws and policies.
Healthy air means healthier people, which means a healthier economy.
The government must be transparent and accountable to the people.
Elected officials and regulators have a moral duty to protect public health.
Likewise, the people of Alabama are responsible for doing their share to protect public health to the best of their abilities.
Clean air and environmental justice are in the long-term best interest of all Alabamians.
Clean, renewable energy is essential to a healthier and more sustainable Alabama.
Every Alabamian deserves the opportunity to live a healthy life regardless of race, place, class, or other identity.
Greater Birmingham Alliance to Stop Pollution gaspgroup.org