August 22 is the day, Birmingham! District 4, meet candidate Mary Jean Baker LaMay.
ByJHDaniel
Reading time: 3 minutes
She represents District 4, but Mary Jean Baker LaMay wants to improve opportunities for all of Birmingham’s 99 neighborhoods.
Her ideas include: GED courses, job training and computer labs at city facilities. Addressing poverty as a way to impact crime and unify Birmingham is also important to her.
Voting Vitals
Don’t forget to check out our all-in-one Voter’s Guide! It includes all the information you need to know about Tuesday’s upcoming August 22 city election.
You’ll find links to all of our candidate interviews, directions on how to find your district, along with absentee voter information. Today, August 17, is the last day to request an absentee’s voter ballot.
Stay informed, my fellow Bham Nowers, and for Vulcan’s sake get out there and vote!
District 4 Candidate Interview
When did you officially announce your candidacy and where/how did you do it?
“July 7th, via social media.”
What is the name of your principal campaign committee?
“Committee to Elect Mary Jean LaMay.”
Why do you want to run for Birmingham City Council?
“Each of the 99 neighborhoods in the city need the same attention. We need to work together to make certain that every resident has the same opportunities.”
What is your background, education and experience?
As part of our local safety committee, I worked relentlessly with the neighborhood and city to have the neglected Norwood Gardens Apartments torn down on 17th Ave. North.
“As part of a group of concerned citizens, known as Rethink 20/59, we worked with the late Councillor Maxine Herring- Parker, the residents, the 31st Street area businesses and ALDOT to have the 31st Street exit remain, when ALDOT announced its permanent closure.
“ALDOT also proposed that 28th Street North and 16th Street North would be closed and 12th Avenue North Bridge would be removed and not rebuilt. Together with residents and a coalition of 150 business leaders, all of the access points will remain open.
“I have served the Norwood neighborhood as president, block watch captain and chair of National Night Out block party. I have shown up to help neighbors in need with resources from other neighbors as well as local nonprofit organizations.
“I get stuff done and I’m there to help. I’m a proud resident of the Northside community who shares my voice when it needs to be heard by our government officials.”
How will you foster a healthy, working relationship between the mayor’s office and the Birmingham City Council/city hall?
“The most important thing is to treat everyone with respect and honesty. I have worked closely with many city hall employees; when you offer respect you are often able to find ways to solve problems, even though there might be disagreements along the way.
“I can honestly say every member of the city council and city staff I’ve interacted with has taught me at least one way to improve our community. Being a good listener is something I constantly work on improving. Often you will find a solution when you are willing to listen to everyone.”
How will you accomplish transparency with the residents of Birmingham, if elected?
“Transparency is extremely important to me. I propose to attend all city council committee meetings, not just the ones I am elected to. I also plan to be in the neighborhoods, accessible to the neighbors at weekly meetups at the community centers and libraries in District 4.”
