Craig Ford will be the first new mayor the City of Gadsden has had for sixteen years.
Ford won a decisive victory over his opponent – Heather Brothers New – the former Chamber of Commerce President, winning by a margin of 61.7% (or 3,308 votes) to 38.3% (2,053 votes). Ford, the former House Minority Leader for Alabama, replaces Sherman Guyton after four terms of service.
Ford recently announced the sale of the old Goodyear Plant site in Gadsden – adding that he looked forward to revitalization of the site – and was excited regarding what the future held for the location.
(ABC3340/www.abc3340.com)
PRESS RELEASE
Gadsden, AL – Former State Representative and local business owner Craig Ford says he is “ready to report for duty” as Mayor for the City of Gadsden after winning the 2022 Gadsden Mayoral race this week.
“I am extremely grateful for all the volunteers who worked endless hours to turn this dream into a reality, and to those who turned out to vote for me and believe in my ability to move the city forward,” said Ford.
Ford used his experience, results, and relationships to create a plan that will start Gadsden moving in the right direction. Ford states, “I know the hardest part – implementing the plan – is still to come, but I know we will get results that are pleasing to everyone and that we can all be proud of if we work together.”
Ford added that he is excited to work on behalf of the people of the city he loves, and wants to ensure that Gadsden remains the prominent city in Etowah County. Ford said this can be accomplished by working his plan, working with the city council, and listening to the people.
While Ford was campaigning, the people voiced their concerns, and he took note. Some of the concerns that are included in his plan include road and drainage issues, low wages for fire, police and city employees, industrial development, crime, and school safety.
Ford said moving Gadsden forward is everyone’s desire, and admits that, while it will be small steps to start with, every step will be in the right direction.
Ford concluded, “I look forward to the opportunity to use my experience to bring results to the office of Mayor and the City of Gadsden.”
Craig Ford is the owner of Ford Insurance Agency and the Gadsden Messenger. He represented Etowah County in the Alabama House of Representatives for 18 years, and was elected Mayor of Gadsden in September 2022.