A summary of City candidates and platforms

Tuesday, April 1 is the Municipal Primary Election. In previous weeks, The Daily Leader has published responses to questionnaires from candidates for each office up for election in Brookhaven. Each of those extended answers can be read at www.dailyleader.com or in previous editions of the newspaper.

A complete listing of candidates and selected quotes are reprinted below.

 

Mayor

Joe Cox and Larry Jointer

Republican Joe C. Cox is the incumbent, seeking a fourth term as mayor. He is a Ward 4 resident and owner of Joe Cox Insurance Services.

“Moving forward, I will continue focusing on strengthening our local economy, addressing ongoing infrastructure needs, maintaining fiscal responsibility, promoting transparency and accountability, and fostering economic and workforce development,” Cox said. “Later this year, with the appointment of a new chief of police, measures will be implemented with the goal of reducing crime and improving community safety.”

Democrat Larry Jointer is a resident of Ward 5, and pastor of St. James Missionary Baptist Church. 

“My assessment of the current administration is the lack of citizen involvement with our city government. I would find a way to incorporate the citizens in the growth of our city as we move forward together,” Jointer said. “My reason for running for this office is to bring about a city of unity and encouraging all citizens to be involved in the forward movement of this great city.”

Both candidates will be on the Primary and General Election ballots.

 

Alderman-at-Large

Republicans Don Underwood and Guy Orr

Democrats Ronald L. Hines and Jeffrey L. Jordan

Don Underwood is the Republican incumbent, seeking a second term. A Ward 5 resident, previously in Ward 4, he is retired from the State of Mississippi. 

Concerning the City’s most pressing issues, Underwood said, “Crime! Pure and simple if we don’t improve public safety none of the other great ideas for Brookhaven will ever come to fruition.  Dealing with this issue starts with appointing a strong Chief of Police with experience in leadership, organization, training, manpower usage, analytics, and policing priorities. The next step is empowering, equipping, training, and supporting an organized, structured police department fully enforcing the laws and ordinances. The next most pressing issue is infrastructure, from drainage, to roads, to water and sewer availability.”

Orr is the Republican challenger, and also a resident of Ward 5. He owns and manages Southern Pawn and Huey Magoo’s.

Orr said the most pressing issues were communication, engagement, economic development, workforce development, business-friendly policies, leadership that listens, and real-time feedback. 

“My role as Alderman at Large would improve Brookhaven because I would be someone willing to go the extra mile on matters most would probably feel aren’t important enough or not worth their time (prime example is how often I’m hearing that calls aren’t being returned),” he said. “If a constituent has called or come to me with a problem or situation, then it’s obviously important, and therefore I want to do the best in my abilities to serve them with the results and answers they are seeking. If we all help each other, and work together the byproduct of that will be improving Brookhaven.”

Hines lives in Ward 5 and is owner of Kids R Us Learning Center and multiple real estate properties, and a former educator.

“In my door knocking and meeting with citizens while campaigning, one of the biggest issues I have heard consistently are concerns about safety, road repairs and being left out of the decision-making process. I plan to push for digital and online communication, community walks and talks in all wards, interactive decision making with the use of online surveys, live question and answer sessions, mobile app communication as well as continue with traditional media to ensure the message is received by all,” said Hines. “I strongly support advancements in technology for law enforcement, such as improved surveillance and communication systems, strengthen neighborhood watch programs and community-police relationships to reduce crime.”

Jordan is a Ward 6 resident and Democrat candidate. He is Safety Director for a trucking company. 

“If elected I will be boots on the ground listening to what the people’s needs are. Also, my focus will be on building a strong infrastructure, public safety, and starting a mentoring program for our youth,” said Jordan. “Also, I think it should be fewer executive sessions and when they have the public should be able know what the outcome is. Now by saying that I’m aware that somethings are not to be discussed. If a citizen needs something to be done even if it can’t be done for whatever reason he or she should be notified. In my opinion knowing the need of the people, boots on the one ground getting to know the citizen and listening to their needs.”

All four candidates will be on the Primary Election ballots. The winners of the Republican Primary and the Democrat Primary will face off in the General Election June 3.

 

Ward 1 Alderman

Democrats James Magee Jr. and James Vincent Payton

Incumbent Magee works full-time as a regional technology manager for a top-tier grocery company.

“Steps to combat the pressing crime issues will start with working diligently on day one with the new Chief of Police on more police presence, creating substations to create a safer environment with the entire city.

Constituents in Ward One should consider re-electing me to continue the progressive improvement to the ward and city, by having the relationships and leverage to complete major community projects and advocating for funding by the way of grants and appropriations from the state.

Payton is owner/operator of Payton Logistics LLC.

“I appreciate the work that the current Alderman has done during his tenure. If elected, my personal goal is to increase visibility, accessibility, and transparency in ward 1 and throughout the city, in general,” said Payton. “This is a major concern for many citizens, including myself. Increasing communication and engagement among the citizens of ward 1 by being visible, accessible, and transparent about the issues that we face will help our citizens feel included, supported, and valued. This tactic alone can change the trajectory of our city.”

The winner of the Primary Election will be the only candidate to advance to the General Election for this ward.

 

Ward 2 Alderman

Democrats Shannon Moore and Ann Wilson

Incumbent Moore is a Project Manager. Moore said the most pressing issues for the City were hiring a new police chief, garbage contracts and service, and blighted properties. 

“I know that some of these properties are owned by heirs who no longer reside in Brookhaven, while others are owned by individuals or families who simply don’t have the financial means to make necessary repairs. For many, these properties hold sentimental value, representing memories and family history, and it’s painful to see them in disrepair or torn down,” Moore said. “Neighbors aren’t happy, as these properties not only bring down property values, but they also contribute to a sense of abandonment and a lack of life in our communities. These properties don’t just affect the owners; they impact the entire neighborhood. I’m committed to working with property owners, offering resources, and finding solutions to help restore these homes and bring life back to our neighborhoods. Together, we can make Ward 2 a place where everyone takes pride in their homes and the community they help create.”

Ann Wilson is the owner of Wilson Paralegal Services. Wilson said new leadership will bring active listening through town hall meetings and revitalization. 

“While my primary focus will be on revitalizing Ward 2, I know that progress in East Brookhaven benefits all of Brookhaven. The revitalization we envision will spark pride in our community, create new job opportunities, and attract businesses to consider Brookhaven as a prime location for their operations,” Wilson said. “I’ve long been a strong advocate for transparency within our city government, and nothing will change if I am elected. All citizens of Brookhaven, not just Ward 2, deserve to know how decisions are made. I attend Board meetings, and I can tell you that voting yea or nay on items 1-12 is not enough. The current process leaves too many people in the dark, forced to assume why decisions are being made — and we all know what happens when we assume.”

The winner of the Primary Election will be the only candidate to advance to the General Election for this ward.

 

Ward 3 Alderman 

Democrats Charles Caston Sr. and Jennifer Howard-Tate.

Incumbent Caston did not respond to the questionnaire.

Howard-Tate is the creator of the non-profit community service organization J’Marie Global.

“The most pressing issues in Ward 3 include the need to clean up our neighborhood, enhance its attractiveness for business ventures, and stimulate economic growth and development,” she said. “To address these issues, I will work on initiatives to beautify our community, improve safety through better lighting and street surveillance, and strengthen our law enforcement partnerships. Additionally, expanding youth recreation programs will provide positive outlets for our young people and contribute to a healthier community overall.”

The winner of the Primary Election will be the only candidate to advance to the General Election for this ward.

 

Ward 4 Alderman

Republican incumbent Jeff Henning

Henning, the sole candidate for this ward, did not submit responses to the questionnaire. He will automatically advance to the General Election for this seat.

 

Ward 5 Alderman

Republicans Fletcher Grice and Tristan Peavey

Incumbent Grice is a small business owner and retired from General Motors. 

“We have made great progress, such as a new fire station, two new fire trucks, with two more on the way, lowered fire rating; equipped the police department with computers, body cameras, and personal safety equipment; major paving projects, maintained a balanced budget, water and sewer improvements, as well as airport improvements, just to name a few — without raising taxes,” said Grice.

“As your current alderman, if reelected, I will remain committed to serving the City of Brookhaven and my constituents in Ward 5 with transparency and common-sense solutions. I will address all issues with fairness and fiscal responsibility. I will remain committed to address all problems brought to me by my constituents by phone or personal contact, as well as carrying out the other duties of the office. Safety is always the most pressing issue. A strong Fire Department, Police Department, in addition to clean water and sewer department, should be top priorities, as well as streets and proper lighting.”

Peavey is the Agriculture and Natural Resources Extension Agent for Lincoln County. 

“As Alderman, my focus will be on building a stronger, safer, and more connected community. By emphasizing Trust, Transparency, and Safety, I will work to restore confidence in local government, improve communication between officials and residents, and promote policies that support growth while preserving what makes Brookhaven special. My goal is to help create a city where businesses can thrive, families feel secure, and residents take pride in their community,” Peavey said. “I am running for Alderman because I love this community and believe in its potential. Brookhaven deserves leadership that listens to all, acts with integrity, and puts the needs of its people first.” 

The winner of the Primary Election will be the only candidate to advance to the General Election for this ward.

 

Ward 6 Alderman 

Democrats Andre’ Spiller Sr., Alan Trey Henderson and Burnell Robinson Sr.

Incumbent Spiller said public safety, abandoned properties, and roadways are the most pressing issues for the City, as well as support for younger residents.

“We must be committed to offering something meaningful to our young and seasoned people in the community. It’s crucial that we provide opportunities, support, and guidance for the next generation, ensuring they have a bright future and a reason to stay and thrive here in Brookhaven,” Spiller said. “I will continue to look for ways to improve the City of Brookhaven and Lincoln County. One key way to do this is by fostering a working relationship and partnership between the Board of Aldermen and County Supervisors. An open line of communication and community engagement is essential for creating a successful city-county collaboration, which will ultimately make for a Better Brookhaven.”

Henderson is a Brookhaven Police Department records clerk and is pursuing a master’s degree in public administration. 

“My vision for Ward 6 is centered on one simple yet powerful principle: ‘Putting the Community First.’ This means prioritizing the needs and voices of our residents in every decision made in our ward. I am committed to fostering an environment where everyone feels heard, valued, and empowered to participate in shaping our community’s future,” Henderson said. “I am a disabled man who will like to be remembered as a leader and visionary who did not let his circumstances keep him down in life. I will also like to highlight that there are a lot of citizens in the community with disabilities and I will be the one to advocate for them in making the community more accessible in every way possible.”

Robinson is pastor of Crump Chapel Church. 

“I have served as Chairman of the Housing Authority Board, where I gained a clear understanding of housing challenges and the critical need for safe, affordable homes. My time as a past member of the FCA Board and former President of the Lincoln County Ministerial Alliance has strengthened my ability to collaborate and lead in diverse environments,” said Robinson. “I’ve always believed in transparency, accountability, and equity. My management experience allows me to navigate complex challenges while promoting trust and respect for all. As your Alderman, I will use my experience to create an inclusive, supportive, and thriving environment for every resident of Ward 6.”

Unless there is a clear single winner of the Primary Election, the top two vote-getters will advance to the Primary Runoff on April 22. The winner of the Runoff will be the only candidate to advance to the General Election for this ward.

 

Dates to remember

The Primary Election is Tuesday, April 1. Primary Runoff Election Day is Tuesday, April 22, and the General Election is Tuesday, June 3. Candidates elected will begin their terms July 1.