Louise Alexander defeated incumbent Kenneth Gulley in last week’s mayoral runoff. Three new city councilors were also elected.
For months, residents have expressed frustration over Project Marvel, the proposed data center that has sparked debate among residents and city leaders.
Mayor-elect Louise Alexander said the lack of transparency surrounding the data center project drove voters to the polls.
Alexander was not part of the initial negotiations, but says she plans to review every contract with city council members and residents once she takes office in November.
“In my first five days, I want to go back and visit the contract along with the city council. I don’t think the city council ever had a chance to look at the contract. As we look at the contract and view these together, we are going to see the ups and downs and relay that back to the citizens, not only of Bessemer, but Rock Lake Mountain as well,” Alexander said.
Alexander said she wants to address dilapidated properties and revitalize downtown Bessemer and bring more grocery stores and businesses to the city.
“In the communities where I grew up in, our parents took pride in the properties and stuff. A lot of them have passed away, the properties are dilapidated overgrown lots now. I want to get in, clean them up, make Bessemer the Bessemer I grew up in we used to have life in downtown Bessemer after 5 o’clock. There is no life,” Alexander said.
Project Marvel has created division and debate at City Hall.
Earlier this year, documents revealed Mayor Kenneth Gulley, his chief of staff and the city attorney signed nondisclosure agreements with developers connected to the project.
Last month, voters unseated two council members. Tuesday night, voters added a third council member to that group. All three voted to approve rezoning for the Project Marvel site.
Councilor Cleo King, who won Tuesday night’s runoff, said the lack of transparency surrounding the project was a key issue in the election.
“I think it played a major role. As you guys know, from the beginning it was a lot of controversy behind it. I just think the voters felt it wasnt forthcoming from the beginning, but now we are going to move forward. It is my hope those — whether you are for or against it — as many know I was against it initially coming, I just hope know that we look forward to the future,” King said.
Last month, Gulley was asked whether his stance on the data center project contributed to him being forced into a runoff. He said he did not think so.After Tuesday night’s election, Gulley posted a statement on Facebook: “To the citizens of Bessemer, It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve as your Mayor for the past 16 years. I am deeply grateful for the trust, support and opportunity you have given me to work on behalf of the Marvel City and its people. The progress we have made, the challenges we have overcome, and the relationships we have built will always hold a special place in my heart. Thank you for allowing me the privilege of serving you. May God Bless each of you, and may God continue to bless the City of Bessemer.“
Alexander and the new council members will take office on Nov. 3.
