There’s a lot of confusion about what an alderman actually does.
Some people see the position as ceremonial. Show up to events. Cut ribbons. Shake hands. Stay visible. Keep things moving.
That’s not the job.
The role of an alderman is to make decisions that shape the direction of the city. Some of those decisions are routine. Many are not. And the ones that matter most usually come with tradeoffs.
It’s About Decisions
Every vote has consequences.
Budgets. Ordinances. Appointments. Contracts. Long-term planning.
These aren’t abstract concepts. They determine how your tax dollars are spent, what gets prioritized, and what gets pushed down the road.
An alderman’s job is to evaluate those decisions carefully, ask the right questions, and vote based on what is best for the city long-term. Not what is easiest in the moment.
It’s About Oversight
City government doesn’t run on autopilot.
Boards, commissions, and departments all play a role, but they require oversight. That means paying attention, not just showing up.
It means understanding the details. Following the money. Asking for clarification when something doesn’t add up.
And when necessary, it means pushing back.
Oversight is not about creating conflict. It’s about ensuring accountability.
It’s About Priorities
Not everything can be funded. Not everything should be.
One of the most important responsibilities of an alderman is setting priorities.
Public safety. Infrastructure. Responsible budgeting.
Those are core functions. That’s where focus should be.
When government tries to do too much, it usually ends up doing the important things poorly. Discipline matters.
It’s About Representation
An alderman represents the people of the city. Not a small group. Not a particular interest. The people.
That means listening. It also means weighing what you hear against the broader impact on the community.
Good representation is not about agreeing with everyone. It’s about making informed decisions that serve the city as a whole.
What It’s Not
It’s not a popularity contest.
It’s not a position for avoiding tough decisions.
It’s not about going along to get along.
And it’s not about protecting the status quo when it isn’t working.
The Bottom Line
This is a serious role with real responsibility.
Tullahoma doesn’t need more noise. It doesn’t need more appearances. It needs leadership that is focused, disciplined, and willing to make decisions.
That’s how I approach this role.
And that’s exactly what you can expect from me.