City of Hattiesburg
Mayor
Toby Barker
No response was provided by the time of press.
Ward 1
Jeffrey George (Republican)
-What makes you the best candidate for this position?
Throughout my two terms as a member of the City Council, I have passionately served our city and represented the people of Ward 1. Over the last 3 years as Council President, I have worked to be a strong, fair, effective leader for the Council. Since day one, I have been a proactive leader that listens first and then takes action to address issues and meet the needs of my constituents. I am excited to have the opportunity to continue serving the city that I love and doing my part to make Hattiesburg an even better place to live for everyone.
-How do you plan to engage with and represent the interests of your constituents?
Engaging with constituents is a daily responsibility that I consider to be critical to our city’s success. By maintaining my record of being an accessible representative that answers when called upon, I will continue to address the concerns of my constituents in a timely manner. Through my involvement with neighborhood associations and other key stakeholder groups within our city, I will work to bring as many voices to the table as possible when making decisions.
-What is the biggest issue your ward faces and how do you plan to address it?
I believe there are two key issues that impact Ward 1 – First, the redevelopment of the Highway 49 / Interstate 59 commercial corridor. This is a key gateway to our city and is prime for investment due to the high traffic counts and assets like the Lake Terrace Convention Center. Through strong code enforcement efforts, investment in improved public infrastructure, and focused retail recruitment, I believe this area is on the cusp of an exciting future. Second, the continued need for improved pedestrian accessibility remains a top priority in the neighborhoods surrounding Southern Miss’s campus. To address this, we will continue identify local and federal funds to invest in this the critical need for more sidewalks.
Ward 2
Eric K. Boney (Democrat)
-What makes you the best candidate for this position?
I am a proven leader with honesty, integrity, and experience. I am a native of Hattiesburg with the knowledge, background, and the decision-making skills to lead Ward 2. I have been a servant leader all my adult career. Leadership and decision-making have been my strongest suit. Everything that I have done in my career has prepared me for this. I am a former Youth Court Counselor, teacher, high school principal and Army officer (Lieutenant Colonel) leading soldiers/people, and president of an organization. The primary characteristics of those positions are leadership, assessment (assessing situations and information gathering), collaboration, building consensus and decision making. Those are the same skills, among others, that it takes to be an effective council member. I have talked to the people of Ward 2 and I understand the critical issues concerning them. I have a plan of action for those issues.
-How do you plan to engage with and represent the interests of your constituents?
I plan to improve the communication between the councilman and the constituents of the ward. I will be visible in the community where I serve. I plan to engage with the people keeping a finger on the pulse of their concerns, take their concerns to city hall, and speak and make decisions on their behalf.
-What is the biggest issue your ward faces and how do you plan to address it?
The biggest issue(s) in my ward is housing and safety. I will communicate with people about their desires when it comes to those issues as well as gather my own information on how to solve or mitigate those issues. We must assess the root causes of inadequate and dilapidated housing, vacant lots, etc. and find ways to invest in creating livable housing. I plan to forge a better relationship between HPD and the citizens of the ward. I plan to collaborate with HPD to help educate the citizens of the ward 2 and how we can work together to mitigate crime and create a safer environment.
Phil “Carlos” Wilson
No response was provided by the time of press.
Ward 3
Joe H. Wiley (Independent)
-What makes you the best candidate for this position?
For the last forty-eight years I’ve lived, worked, and raised my family in Hattiesburg. I’ve lived in two Hattiesburg wards and my love for this city has resulted in over thirty-five years of community involvement and service. I’ve served as president of the neighborhood associations in both of my wards and President of the Mayor’s Council of Neighborhoods. Additionally, I served on the national board of Neighborhoods USA for nine years sponsored by the City of Hattiesburg, the Unified Neighborhood Association, and my employer. Our main ward projects primarily focused on neighborhood watch and safety, zoning issues, and years of providing dictionaries for all third graders in Hattiesburg Public Schools.
-How do you plan to engage with and represent the interests of your constituents?
I want to be the unified voice OF and FOR Ward 3 which means listening to and effectively communicating our problems, concerns, and desires to the council and city administration. First of all, I will be available and accountable to each constituent in Ward 3. I want to not only know their needs and problems, but I want to know what they desire for the future so that we can work on new things and better ways to improve our ward. Additionally, I want to be the force that connects all of the Ward 3 neighborhoods by participating in their association meetings and having them crossover and share ideas and resources between the neighborhoods.
-What is the biggest issue your ward faces and how do you plan to address it?
I know that there are many issues in Ward 3; however, the one that I hear about the most is WATER – WATER – WATER. Everyone has the right to safe clean water for drinking, sanitation, and daily use; however, some areas in Ward 3 frequently experience discolored water; some residents have recurring flooding due to drainage ditches not being cleaned out; and others have water leaks that require multiple repairs. The city is working on these and other water issues; however, if elected, I will make every effort to work with the city to determine the cause and a resolution to these issues which shouldn’t be a hardship for our citizens.
Keenon Walker (Democrat)
-What makes you the best candidate for this position?
I will bring my wealth of experience in community organization and deep commitment to the community when elected for Hattiesburg City Council Ward 3. I have spent over a decade contributing to Hattiesburg's growth and development through my involvement with nonprofit organizations, volunteering with community organizations, and promoting Hattiesburg on my various platforms.
My career encompasses roles in community organization, public relations, and media production. In my capacity as a field organizer, I have dedicated myself to voter engagement and education in the Pine Belt and beyond. I have advocated for equal access to resources, volunteered with community cleanup initiatives, participated in fundraisers for community organizations, and I’ve worked to increase awareness and the effectiveness of public transit. My involvement with the Downtown Hattiesburg Association and The Spectrum Center highlights my dedication to local initiatives.
Through my years of service, I have received several accolades for my work and dedication, including being named among Hattiesburg American's Top 12 Under 40 and receiving awards from Pine Belt Sales and Marketing Professionals and the Mississippi Main Street Association. Additionally, Advocate Magazine, a national publication, recognized me as a champion of pride in 2022.
My platform emphasizes passion, community, and leadership, and I aim to serve Ward 3 by addressing local concerns and fostering progress within the community. My longstanding commitment to Hattiesburg, combined with my professional experience and community involvement, is a testament to who I am and why I am the best candidate for the City Council Ward 3 seat.
-How do you plan to engage with and represent the interests of your constituents?
I will effectively engage with and represent the interests of Ward 3 constituents by implementing a community-centered strategy focused on accessibility, inclusivity, and proactive leadership.
I will prioritize direct engagement with constituents by regularly attending neighborhood meetings, hosting town halls for the Ward, and routinely canvassing from door-to-door. Establishing a consistent presence in the Ward allows me to hear the residents’ concerns firsthand and build trust throughout the Ward.
Maintaining a strong online presence will help with connecting to younger voters and busy professionals. Regular updates via social media, email newsletters, and a user-friendly website can keep constituents informed about city initiatives and policy updates.
Maintaining strong relationships with local businesses, nonprofits, and faith-based organizations can help address key issues such as economic development, public safety, and education. I will always advocate for resources and policies that improve infrastructure, job opportunities, and affordable housing.
I am a firm believer in maintaining an open-door policy and providing clear channels for communication (email, phone, and in-person meetings). My goal is to ensure all residents feel heard and engaged. I will work with the other council members and the mayor to improve the responsiveness of Hattiesburg’s Action Hotline and outline processes for timely followup of resident reports.
I want to use public forum results, surveys, and data analytics to identify trends and challenges within Ward 3. This approach ensures that policies and solutions are tailored to the community’s evolving needs.
Fostering transparency, accessibility, and collaboration, will make me an effective leader who truly represents the interests of Ward 3 in Hattiesburg.
-What is the biggest issue your ward faces and how do you plan to address it?
Residents of Hattiesburg's Ward 3 have expressed concerns primarily related to infrastructure, homelessness, and economic development. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive and community-focused approach.
Aging infrastructure, including roads and utilities, has been a longstanding concern in Ward 3. Residents have reported issues such as potholes and inadequate drainage systems. The city is currently replacing water meters to ensure more accurate billing, but reviewing existing assessments which hold detailed evaluations of roads, water lines, and drainage is the first step in addressing and prioritizing the need for repairs. After reviewing existing assessments, I will work closely with the other council members to develop a prioritized plan for infrastructure projects based on urgency and community impact, ensuring transparency in the decision-making process. Once the plan is developed, I will explore diverse funding sources, including the municipal budget, state grants, and federal assistance, to finance infrastructure improvements. This includes the addition of green spaces and sidewalks.
I will employ a holistic, multi-agency approach to help lower the growing unhoused population. By incentivizing construction of affordable housing, expanding access to mental health and addiction services, cultivating job training and employment programs, strengthening community partnerships, and prioritizing permanent housing solutions, we can help those struggling with homelessness find a path to personal growth. Hattiesburg City Council can create long-term, sustainable solutions through focusing on housing, health care, and employment.
Continued economic growth is essential for Ward 3's development. Increased support of locally-owned businesses, highlighting available spaces and community strengths to attract new business, enhance workforce development opportunities, and access to fiber internet throughout Hattiesburg, are keys to economic prosperity.
By implementing these strategies, Ward 3 can address its challenges effectively, fostering a safer, more prosperous, and engaged community.
LeAnne Van Slyke Vance
No response was provided by the time of press.
Ward 4
Dave Ware (Independent)
-What makes you the best candidate for this position?
First, serving the people of Hattiesburg on the City Council representing Ward 4 is a tremendous honor, and as I am unopposed, I appreciate the opportunity to serve the next 4 years. I am seeking reelection so that we can continue the work of redeveloping and rebuilding parts of our community that are in need of new and renewed investment. This includes rebuilding our water, sewer and storm drainage systems; repairing and building new multipurpose sidewalks and pathways; and finding ways to repurpose vacant and abandoned houses and buildings.
-How do you plan to engage with and represent the interests of your constituents?
For me to be an effective City Council Representative, I need to hear directly from the community that I serve. That means attending neighborhood association meetings, communicating directly with residents and listening to their concerns – especially when those concerns are related to crime and public safety.
-What is the biggest issue your ward faces and how do you plan to address it?
In this next term, I plan to continue working to find ways to encourage investors to see the value of locating and expanding existing businesses and residential developments in our City.
Ward 5
Ashley L. Perkins (Democrat)
-What makes you the best candidate for this position?
I bring experience in leadership, community advocacy, policy planning and problem-solving. For over 15 years, I have integrated myself within the community responding to crisis made by people who have often been negatively impacted due to certain policies. My background in the legal field as an investigator for over 15 years has prepared and positioned me to serve effectively. What matters most is a candidate with strong commitment to the community, a willingness to listen and act, and the ability to bring people together to get things done.
-How do you plan to engage with and represent the interests of your constituents?
My role is to make sure the voices of Ward 5 residents are heard in every city decision. I will do this by:
- Holding regular community meetings to listen to concerns. I will work with the very established CAT Team (Community Action Team)
* Advocating for funding and policies that directly benefit our ward.
* Ensuring open communication and transparency in all decision-making processes by serving as a bridge between residents and city government.
-What is the biggest issue your ward faces and how do you plan to address it?
Based on two recent Ward 5 Community meetings, residents have voiced concerns specific to two major issues: economic development and youth programs—both of which are critical to the future of our community.
For economic development, I will work to attract new businesses, support small business growth, and advocate for workforce training programs that create stable job opportunities for residents. A thriving local economy means more jobs, better services, and stronger neighborhoods.
Regarding youth programs, I will partner with schools, local organizations, and businesses to expand after-school programs, summer jobs, and mentorship opportunities. Investing in our youth today ensures a brighter future for Ward 5, giving young people positive outlets and career pathways.
By addressing these two key areas, we can strengthen our community, create opportunities, and build a foundation for long-term success.
Nicholas “Nick” Brown
Hello, my name is Nicholas Brown, a loving husband of 15 years and father of my wonderful 11 year-old son. I am 43 years of age and running for re-election as a Democrat. I’m currently serving on the Hattiesburg City Council of Ward 5, which I have been doing for the past 8 years. I have been the owner of BROWN LAWN SERVICE since 2009. My education includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration, with an emphasis in Management Information Systems from The University of Southern Mississippi.
My business experience, people skills, various management positions I have held over the years, and time served on the City Council are a few reasons that qualify me for the position. We have seen over $30 million worth of investments in Ward 5 over the past 8 years, which has come through great teamwork and communication with my colleagues and constituents. Experience & the progress we’ve seen in Ward 5 during my time in office sets me apart from my opponent. I feel that I am the best candidate because of the Love that I have for people & the community. I am hard-working, listen to the needs of the community, and will work to meet those needs. I’m ready to continue serving the citizens of Ward 5.
If re-elected my top goal is to continue working hard & smart through teamwork with my colleagues and citizens. I plan on having community meetings in various locations throughout the Ward. I plan to continue investing resources into Ward 5. Drainage & open ditches are issues I plan to tackle through teamwork with the community, administration, engineering, and our public works department. Homelessness is also an issue I want to work on with teamwork through the administration, HPD, and non-profit organizations.
