Tag Archives: George Bowman

JeffCo Commission District 1 election tomorrow (& July 13)

election signTomorrow’s runoff election is specifically for residents of Jefferson County living in District 1 and pertains to the commission seat vacated when William Bell became mayor of Birmingham, AL earlier this year. The winner serves the remainder of Bell’s term, set to expire at the end of the year.

The crazy thing is that you’ll be given a choice between Birmingham City Councilman Johnathan Austin and retired General George Bowman tomorrow – and on July 13. The second election will determine the Democratic nominee for November’s general election.

Confused yet?

The Birmingham News‘ editorial board explains the situation as clearly as it can be, but it can still be a little disturbing if you think about it. One scenario, for example, could lead us to have to hold another special election to fill Austin’s unexpired term at City Hall if he’s successful tomorrow.

If you’re a resident of District 1 and you want some help figuring out just who to vote for, the Birmingham Young Democrats are teaming up with Women of Will (WOW) to host a candidates runoff forum this evening at 5:30 p.m. at Cosmos Sports Bar and Grill in Norwood.

Candidates for Alabama’s 7th Congressional District seat in Congress – Terri Sewell and Shelia Smoot – will be there too. You’ll only have to vote for them once (& won’t have to do that until July 13).

Bell enters commission race

William Bell headshotWhether or not the results are challenged in court (as has been indicated by the governor’s office), there will be a notable race for the Jefferson County Commission seat vacated by Larry Langford in order for him to serve as mayor of Birmingham.

Birmingham City Councilor William Bell announced his intentions to seek the seat currently occupied by George Bowman. He’s the sixth person to declare their intention to run in the February 5 special election.

If Bell were to win, there would be an appointment to the City Council until an election was held to name his successor. Want to know more? Check out Kyle’s post on Mixed Media.

Photo credit: Bob Farley/f8photo