Linda Riggins Aaron has announced her candidacy for the Gadsden City Council District 5 seat, pledging to focus on neighborhood safety, economic development and improved communication between city government and residents.
A lifelong Gadsden resident, Aaron said she has lived in the city for more than 55 years. She is a graduate of Gadsden High School and Gadsden State Community College, where she earned a degree in business administration. Aaron retired from the Gadsden Board of Education and is a military widow, mother of five and grandmother of seven.
Aaron said she decided to seek public office after hearing concerns from residents who feel their voices have not been heard.
“I am running because District 5 deserves responsive leadership that listens, shows up and gets results,” Aaron said.
Among her priorities, Aaron said she would work with law enforcement, neighborhood watch groups and community organizations to strengthen public safety while advocating for improvements to neighborhood infrastructure. She said repairing streetlights, addressing dangerous intersections, maintaining vacant properties, clearing overgrown lots and removing hazardous trees are essential to creating safer neighborhoods.
Aaron also said she supports economic development by encouraging small business growth, attracting investment and expanding workforce training and employment opportunities for residents.
In addition, Aaron said she would advocate for expanded youth programs, mentorship opportunities and educational resources while working to improve access to services, transportation and information for senior citizens.
Aaron said she also wants to improve transparency and communication between city officials and residents.
“The government works best when it is transparent, accountable and accessible,” she said. “I will be a councilwoman who listens, communicates openly and remains available to the people I serve.”
Aaron said her campaign is centered on serving families, seniors, business owners and young people throughout District 5. The Gadsden municipal election is scheduled for Aug. 25.
