The Madison Chamber of Commerce is committed to helping voters make informed decisions in the upcoming municipal election. Below, you'll find information provided directly by each candidate running for city council or mayor.
Take time to explore, get to know who's on the ballot and show up to the polls prepared on August 26, because local elections shape the future of our city.
Maura Wroblewski - Council District No. 1 Candidate
I have lived in Madison since 1998. I was first elected in 2016 and then reelected in 2020. I don’t have an opponent this term, and I think that is a reflection of the work that we have done over the last nine years.
Some of the things that I am most proud of are the Wall Triana multi-use path that goes from Gillespie Road down to Browns Ferry Road. This was specifically a goal of mine due to folks living in the apartments who were walking their children to West Madison Elementary School and having to walk either in the ditch or on the side of the road. Today, it is a joy to see parents walking their children to Midtown Elementary School.
I am also very proud of the roundabout we have installed at Balch and Gillespie. We have a roundabout under construction at Browns Ferry and Burgreen Road, and two more coming at Balch and Gooch and Balch and Browns Ferry. I believe that roundabouts are less expensive in the long run, are more efficient, and tremendously relieve traffic congestion.
For this next term, I am most excited about the new Mill Creek Greenway that will extend from Gillespie Road to the north, south to Browns Ferry Road, west to Balch Road, and east to Wall Triana. We started working on this greenway just two weeks ago.
Even though I don’t have an opponent, I still plan to walk my District in the next two months—seeing old friends and making new ones. If you have voted in either municipal election in 2016 or 2020, or in either of the two special elections we have had, I look forward to seeing you.
Thank you very much!
David Bier - Council District No. 2 Candidate
When you are called to serve, both spiritually and literally, you step up. My motivation for running for office is about service, and while many people say that, at my core, as evidenced by my service in the community. Service is part of what gives meaning to my life. I turn 50 this year, that gives me 15 really good years of service left, I intend to make the most of those years and have an impact leaving this place better than I found it.
Why public service? I believe that the city we have built in the past 20 years is unlike any other. It is one of the top places to live in the country, and great things don’t stay great without intentional leadership. Our growth isn’t going to stop and our resources, both land and financial are limited. I bring the leadership, experience, and expertise to ensure we are intentional in our strategy, collaboration and governance.
My vison for Madison, is simple, to be the best governed city and the top place to live not only in the State, but in the nation. This is the same vision I have for each of the businesses I lead - to be the best run business, the best place to work, best client or guest experience. I achieved this at Monaco and I come in every day with the same goal at Anglin…what can I do to make this company better today - expect the same thing for the City of Madison.
Billie Goodson - Council District No. 3 Candidate
Maybe it is a little bittersweet to run unopposed. However, it allows me the opportunity to spend the next couple of months applying myself to preparing for taking office. I look forward to November, when the new council and mayor will be seated and we can begin the work of governing.
Another thing I can do is promise to work hard every day to maintain—or win—your confidence, so that if you are ever asked if you would have voted for me, your response will be, “Absolutely.”
I can promise you to always act with integrity and honesty in serving on the council—to value each person, strive to hold to the highest standards, and to act as a statesman, not a politician.
Maybe you ask: what is a statesman?
There are four critical qualities of a statesman:
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A bedrock of principles
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A moral compass
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A vision
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The ability to build a consensus to achieve that vision
That is my ideal—the standard I am offering to be held to.
What are my main ideals that I am running on for Madison?
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Managed growth and redevelopment
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Continuing to be a national leader in education for our children
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Stewardship of our city’s resources, facilities, and personnel
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Improving communication to our residents
Rachel Homolak - Council District No. 4 Candidate
PRIORITIES FOR MADISON SUSTAINABLE GROWTH:
- Rachel will ensure tax paying CITIZENS are #1 and their voice is heard!
- While Madison leaders want to embrace growth, we cannot sacrifice the quality of life of our existing families. Every single tax paying family deserves to live in a city that serves them well.
- Schools are the heart of Madison. We must ensure every investment is balanced to benefit all families.
- We must concentrate on people, resources, and infrastructure in ways that improve quality of life, drive innovation, and support economic growth.
AMENITIES THAT SERVE FAMILIES:
- Recreational Life: Providing plenty of diverse upbeat and family fun outlets whilst continuing to update established facilities.
- Cultural Arts & Entertainment: Encouraging expansion of all types of family and pet friendly avenues including museums, music venues, sports venues, theaters, nightlife, festivals and seasonal events.
LAW ENFORCEMENT & FIRST RESPONDERS:
- Safety Nets & Resilience: Madison City must continue to have top notch law enforcement and first responders to ensure peace of mind to our deserving residents.
- Emergency services: Faster response times and better coverage.
- Shelters & support services: For vulnerable populations within the community.
- Disaster preparedness: Better planning and infrastructure for natural or human-made events.
- Creation of Youth Programs: Investing in our future by inspiring our youth to become the next generation of Madison City professionals. (Cadet program)
Michael McKay - Council District No. 4 Candidate
I am running for the council seat in District 4 because I think my professional background and my community involvement have positioned me to understand the needs of Madison.
I will work tirelessly to enhance the city budget for quality-of-life projects—like improved parks, community facilities, and ball fields. Palmer Park is in District 4, and I want to champion the effort to make this park something our citizens can be proud of.
With my background as a Certified Fraud Examiner and auditor, I will serve as a watchdog for all taxpayer dollars spent, eliminating waste and unnecessary spending to streamline important projects.
Most importantly, I look forward to learning from others, working collaboratively with the new mayor and some new and old faces on council, and listening to the needs of my constituents—and taking action on what needs to get done!
Alice Lessmann - Council District No. 5 Candidate
As a Huntsville native and proud Madison city resident for nearly 20 years, I have spent my life as dedicated community leader, small business owner, and longtime advocate for Madison City. My family and I have made our home here, investing in the city we love and actively contributing to its growth and success. Since 2020, I have served on the Madison City School Board of Education, and since 2021, as District 9 Director for the Alabama Association of School Boards, championing excellence in education both locally and statewide.
My dedication to Madison is rooted in my 21 years of service in the Alabama National Guard, where I retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. I have been active in many areas of the community with raising funds for the River of Hope Campaign, Madison’s Growth Committee, and an avid volunteer and supporter of the Madison Chamber, Madison PTA, American Legion, and other Madison organizations.
I believe in fiscal responsibility and long-term planning. I believe my blend of business experience, educational insight, and dedication to our community can help us build an even brighter future for Madison. I hope to bring experience, heart, and vision to the great city of Madison.
Scott Harbour - Council District No. 6 Candidate
Madison has been my family’s home since 2008. My wife and I have raised two sons here, both graduates of Bob Jones High School, and we’ve been deeply involved in the life of this community, from our schools and churches to youth programs and civic organizations.
I’m running for Madison City Council District 6 because I believe our city stands at a pivotal moment. We’ve experienced incredible growth over the past two decades, and I want to ensure that we continue to grow with intention, protecting the high quality of life that brought so many of us here, while planning wisely for the future.
As a former small business owner, I understand the vital role local businesses play in shaping a strong and resilient local economy. I built a business from the ground up, creating dozens of jobs across five locations, and used the experience to write a book titled Building Great Teams, about how small businesses can grow by investing in their people. I’ve lived the challenges that entrepreneurs face, and I know how much opportunity exists when government is a partner, not a barrier.
Professionally, I serve as Vice President of Finance at Chapman Sisson Architects, where I lead financial strategy, IT, and operational planning. I previously spent 10 years in leadership roles at the U.S. Space & Rocket Center, where I helped guide the organization through record-setting attendance growth, operational improvements, and increased community outreach. These experiences have shaped my perspective on fiscal responsibility, long-term planning, and the importance of strong public-private partnerships.
I also serve on the Madison City Zoning Board of Adjustment and have held leadership roles with the Madison Chamber of Commerce, Grace United Methodist Church, and the Hogan Family YMCA.
My campaign is focused on smart growth, fiscal discipline, and strengthening Madison’s identity as a city where families, businesses, and community life can thrive. I’m running to serve and to build on the progress that this community has enjoyed.
Erica White - Council District No. 6 Candidate
I’m Erica White, an engineer, small business owner, and community advocate running to represent District 6 on the Madison City Council.
Madison has grown rapidly, and it’s time our infrastructure, roads, and city services reflect the needs of the people who live here. As a former civilian engineer for the U.S. Army, I bring over a decade of experience in budgeting, planning, and problem-solving. As a small business owner, I understand the challenges local entrepreneurs face, and I believe in smart, balanced growth that strengthens our economy without sacrificing what makes Madison feel like home.
I moved to Madison for its outstanding school system, and I’m committed to preserving and supporting that legacy for every family. I will be a collaborative partner to the Madison Board of Education, working toward sustainable funding and long-term excellence.
My vision is simple: lead with integrity, serve with heart, and deliver results that matter. Whether it’s fixing traffic bottlenecks, protecting green space, or supporting youth and public safety, I will listen, act, and advocate for solutions that serve all of District 6.
Together, we can build a stronger Madison, one that honors our values, protects our neighborhoods, and prepares for the future.
Karen Denzine - Council District No. 6 Candidate
QUALIFICATIONS:
Serving on City Council for over 4 years - I’ve gained a wealth of insight and experience. I currently serve as liaison for seven different entities:
- The Madison Police and Fire departments
- The Police Citizen Advisory Committee
- The Beautification Board
- The Senior Center
- Madison Visionary Partners
- Madison Street Festival
- I also served as the liaison for School Board for 1 year.
Serving these organizations keeps me engaged with the citizens helping me better understand their needs and how we can best meet them as a city. I have 2 college degrees- both were in Real Estate. My Master’s degree specialized in international industrial site location. As a professional, I did commercial investment analysis. Through my education and work experience - I understand how the different aspects of business analysis and community development fit together. We raised a family of five sons while living in three different US cities and three European countries. Living and traveling to a variety of places around the world gives me a unique perspective on how different communities function efficiently.
HIGHEST PRIORITY:
To continue to listen to you the citizens and work on your behalf of the taxpayer - to be your voice on City Council.
BALANCING BUSINESS:
Thriving businesses attract additional businesses. City Council can help in several ways. First through thoughtful zoning and targeted incentives. Second through quality infrastructure, such as maintaining roads and solving congestion issues -something we need to address more aggressively. Third through exceptional police and fire services which provide security. Sound economic growth involves adding new businesses that are complementary to existing ones. This way the businesses benefit from each other and citizens have an expanded variety of shopping opportunities. Collectively, these measures help support existing businesses while attracting desirable new businesses to specific areas of Madison. A win win!
SCHOOL FUNDING VS. CITY SERVICES:
For the most part School funding and the funding for City Services are non-competing funding sources. That being said- there are decisions made by City Council which impact the schools. Developing infrastructure which supports new schools is one way. Maintaining our roads keeps the buses running smoothly. Funding city services and quality of life items support our schools by creating a healthy, vibrant, positive place to live. Adding new residential housing may adversely increase the enrollment of our schools. This results in increased costs to the schools. Each residential development must be evaluated carefully. For example annexing in Clift Farms would overwhelm school enrollment. During my first term I voted to approve a very limited number of new housing developments.
YOUTH RECREATION:
Like so many of you, I was shocked by the sudden closure of the Insanity Complex - it’s a major loss for the youth. While Madison has a variety of community recreational areas, not all are youth focused. The voters indicate they would love a Splash Pad. I agree. Many consider it a time honored tradition during the summer. An additional public pool is also a hot topic among voters. Years ago the City Council paid for an amazing plan to revitalize Palmer Park - providing safe parking, a new playground area, and updated ballfields. I support making Palmer Park a premier sporting facility for our youth.
Kenneth Jackson - Council District No. 7 Candidate
Since early March, I’ve personally knocked on over 1,700 of District 7’s doors, listening intently to what residents want. I’ve also solicited input via social media and hosted multiple town halls. By far, the most frequent feedback is that Madison’s infrastructure hasn’t kept up with recent growth.
If elected, I’ll strive for safe, efficient, and walkable streets. Specifically, I favor roundabouts where they make sense, adaptive signals that adjust to traffic, and increased funding for paved paths and crosswalks.
In my opinion, government’s proper role in economic development starts with creating a conducive environment. As I mentioned earlier, better mobility would make Madison a more attractive place to work, shop, and dine. The city should also follow comprehensive plans, like Madison on Track 2045, so owners and managers know what to expect down the road. Officials should be responsive to existing businesses as well as those who might join that list. Lastly, I’d like to see a level playing field with no special arrangements to entice certain investments above others.
To ensure Madison’s public schools maintain their high quality, the half-cent sales tax scheduled to sunset in 2027 should be renewed and allocated to the system exclusively. That being said, it’s important to find other ways to support the city’s budget for internal departments. For example, we could apply for more matching dollars from state and federal agencies.
Neighborhood parks such as Brass Oak, Homestead, and Rollingwood would benefit from equipment upgrades, restrooms, and water fountains. I intend to explore those options. I’ve attended recreation board meetings and will keep in touch with its members about demands on youth sports leagues. Based on my observations, people want Madison’s city council to continue renovating Palmer Park. Among other requests, they’d appreciate expanded aquatic capacity in terms of swim lanes and a splash pad, too.
I look forward to working hard for District 7 on these issues and the others detailed at kennethjackson.org. Please help make that possible by voting on August 26!
John D. Seifert II - Council District No. 7 Candidate
John Seifert, current City Council President and District 7 Councilman, is a dedicated public servant and proven leader with a deep passion for community. With a background in engineering and 9 years of experience on the city council, John brings practical solutions, steady leadership, and a commitment to listening to and serving the people of his district and Madison as a whole. From infrastructure and economic development to schools, community safety and green spaces, John focuses on the issues that matter most to families, neighborhoods, and the future of Madison. Key to these successes are John’s developed and fostered relationships before and during his tenure on council and tangible results achieved over the last 9 years. On August 26th, let’s vote to keep John Seifert as our District 7 representative.
M. Margi Daly - Mayoral Candidate
My platform emphasizes the implementation of transparency, fiscal responsibility, proactive infrastructure, and a community-centric City Hall. Collaborating with the community, along with the expertise of City Hall staff. Elevating our city's prioritization of the well-being of its citizens.
Steve Smith - Mayoral Candidate
We did not receive a written statement from Mr. Smith; however, voters can refer to his campaign website for more information.
Ranae Bartlett - Mayoral Candidate
I’m running for Mayor because I believe our City has so much potential that needs a steady hand, community involvement, and trusted leadership to fully take advantage of. Madison is my family’s home and has provided a wonderful place for us to raise our family, like many others. As our city has grown, and continues to do so, it’s imperative that we grow in a smart, steady, and forward-thinking way. Growth is good, but it can quickly become burdensome without the right planning and citizen involvement. As mayor, I’ll focus on the needs of our community first: Investments in critical infrastructure to alleviate congestion and the pains that have come with the growth we’ve seen. I’ll advocate for protecting our school system, its students and parents, as well as its employees. I’ll also work to modernize our community through reliable economic development that ensures Madison remains on solid footing after the growth has slowed.
Madison and its people deserve someone who will listen and then act. As your Mayor, I’ll ensure every citizen is heard, every dollar is watched, and our quality of life is protected. I would be honored to serve as your Mayor and will treat your trust with the respect, honor, and dignity it deserves.
Now that you've gotten to know the candidates, the next step is getting to polls! Click the button below for everything you need to know about voting in Madison.