Jeff Prince is currently running for Rainbow City Council Place 3.
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you born and raised? Where did you attend school?
I was born and raised in Gadsden. I graduated from Emma Sansom High School in 1983 and from Auburn University in 1987 with a BS Marketing Degree.
What is your profession?
I have been in industrial sales for the past 15 years and employed with Belt Power LLC as a territory manager since September 2007. Prior to that I worked in insurance as a claims adjuster and agent.
Describe your family and pets.
I have been married to Bevin Snow Prince since 9/8/1990. We have a son, Andrew Prince, who is a licensed pharmacist and married to Collyn Roberts Prince. We have a daughter Caroline Prince, who is a sophomore at JSU. We have two dogs and two cats.
Do you have any hidden talents?
Not really hidden, but I enjoy music and singing.
What is something surprising that many do not know about you?
I sing in our church choir and part of a quartet “Four His Glory.”
What are three words that describe you?
Honest, loyal and hard worker.
What advice would you give to yourself as a child?
Always remain true to yourself and follow God and His path.
Is this your first time running for a political office or do you have any prior political experience?
This is my first time seeking public office. However, my grandfather was mayor of Altoona when I was a kid.
What do you love the most about Rainbow City?
What I love most about Rainbow City is the safe neighborhoods we have and excellent choices of school systems.
What inspired you to run for city council?
My desire to see Rainbow City grow into it’s full potential inspired me to run for city council. We have many natural resources and potential for economic growth.
What differs you from your opponents?
I feel that my 33 years of diverse business experience and my ability to work with others could be a plus for Rainbow City.
What do you believe you can offer Rainbow City?
As stated above, my ability to work with anyone would be a positive thing to help Rainbow City grow and to use the contacts and friends I have.
What is your vision for Rainbow City, were you elected?
My vision for Rainbow City is to help work on current problems we face, such as drainage issues, as well as help work as a team to bring more economic development to the area.
What are your plans for combating the effects of the coronavirus on your community?
2020 has taught me to plan for the unexpected. I have worked hard both on the leadership team at Christ Central United Methodist to open to changes in the way we do things as well as my company. We have weekly conference calls at work to plan ahead for the unknown and be prepared with the proper PPE needed to conduct business in the face of adversity. I feel it is imperative Rainbow City has both short term and long term plans to operate effectively.
There’s been quite a debate recently on how to open schools, with some school systems electing to commence studies remotely with others moving forward with face-to-face instruction. Do you plan to address this situation, and if so, how?
We have to be prepared to help our school systems prepare for the unknown. I personally know many people both in administration as well as teachers and trust that they can make the right decisions with help.
If you have any message you’d like to send to potential voters, what would you say?
I would encourage all potential voters to get to know each candidate’s background and strengths to make the best decision on election day. My promise to each person in Rainbow City is simple: I will work hard with the other council members, Mayor, other local officials as well as state officials to do what is best for Rainbow City. I truly want to serve the people and be a good steward for our great city.