Leeds City Councilman Johnny Kile recently announced his candidacy for Mayor of Leeds in the August 28 Leeds municipal election.

“I am not a career politician, but in my short time on the Leeds City Council and the 36 years working with and around various municipal governments, I understand the missing ingredients from our local government: communications and respect,” said Kile. “As city leaders we must keep all lines of communication open to the individual residents, business owners and visitors throughout the city.”

As a lifelong Leeds resident, Kile believes it is imperative that Leeds leaders set better examples and provide “fair, open and transparent government,” to its citizens.

Currently presiding as District 5 councilor, Kile strives “to embrace our local businesses as partners, working together hand and hand to make an even better and stronger Leeds, rather than finding ways to alienate or litigate our business community.”

Emphasizing the importance of supporting local businesses, Kile added, “We have to become business friendly again and fight for every sales tax dollar during these hard economic times.”

Touching on a hot topic issue, Kile said, “Even though I am in favor of an elected school board, I believe the residents and taxpayers within the City of Leeds are the ones that should make the ultimate determination on this issue. No single group or groups of residents should make this decision for the whole city.”

As mayor Kile would put every effort into finding a solution that would allow Leeds residents to vote for or against an elected school board.

Asking for votes on August 28, Kile wants the citizens of Leeds to know his door will always be open when residents need to address any issues or want to talk about ways to improve the quality of living in Leeds.

“There are many needs within our great city and I pledge to listen to the citizens, businesses, organizations and everyone with genuine respect,” said Kile. “I ask for your support and vote for Mayor of Leeds, Alabama.”