Betty Dawson, Luverne City Council representative for District 1, has announced her bid for re-election to the seat she has held for four years.

“I began serving in 2021 following the passing of Charlie “Cuz” Johnson, who held this position for over 20 years,” Dawson said in a media release. “At that time, many told me I had big shoes to fill. I responded by saying I wasn’t here to fill anyone’s shoes — I was here to do my best to serve all the people of this city and help address their concerns.”

Dawson brings 21 years of experience as a licensed social worker to the council, having worked with Wiregrass Hospice and the Alabama Department of Public Health (Butler County Health Department). Her experience guides the decisions she makes as a councilwoman and she works to serve Luverne citizens by listening, understanding and empathy. 

The councilwoman was born and raised in Crenshaw County, graduating from Luverne High School in 1973, Lurleen B. Wallace Community College in 1975 and Troy State University in 1999. She is the widow of Jimmie Lewis Dawson and has two adult children, four grandchildren and three great grandchildren. She is also a member of St. James Baptist Church, Crenshaw Historical Society and the Allen Lily #700 Order of Eastern Star as well as a board member of the Chamber of Commerce.

“While not every issue can be solved, I always work to help residents understand their options and find new paths forward,” she said.

As a new councilwoman first taking office, Dawson recalls having a limited knowledge of city government

“I committed myself to learning,” she explained. “I enrolled in the Wiregrass LEAD (RC&D) program and joined the Alabama Communities of Excellence (ACE) initiative to help promote local economic development. I also began certification training with the Alabama League of Municipalities. And, I will complete the required 40 hours by November 2025.”

The councilwoman is active in the Crenshaw County community supporting senior nutrition centers with bingo prizes, helping the Crenshaw County Department of Human Resources office  (DHR) with canned food drives, participating in Operation Santa Claus and providing local schools with bottled water and school supplies. 

Dawson has also hosted LifeSouth blood drives to meet the urgent need for donations at Crenshaw Community hospital.

“I advocated successfully for new diagnostic equipment at the hospital and played a key role in securing pay raises for both our police and sanitation workers, two critical groups in our community,” Dawson said. “I also helped acquire new trucks and equipment for our city workforce.”

As a volunteer with the Crenshaw County Historical Museum and the Alabama Register of Landmarks and Heritage, Dawson was instrumental in getting the Crenshaw County Training School/Woodford Avenue High School listed on the register. 

“I also supported enhancements at a local funeral home property and helped secure a grant to increase lighting at Douglas Park,” she said.

Dawson said she proudly voted in favor of infrastructure grants to replace outdated water and sewer lines along Jeffcoat, 10th Street, 9th Street and Woodford Avenue. If re-elected, she plans to continue working to build for progress.

“Looking ahead, I am committed to building on the progress we’ve made together,” Dawson said. “My priorities include further improvements to public safety, infrastructure, and economic development. 

“I plan to advocate for more resources for our first responders, ensuring they have the tools and training needed to protect our community. I also aim to pursue additional grants for road maintenance and beautification projects to enhance the quality of life for all residents.”

Her key goals include expanding youth engagement programs and creating more opportunities for young people to thrive. 

“Whether through recreational activities, mentorship initiatives or skill-building workshops, I believe investing in our youth is investing in the future of Luverne,” she said. “Additionally, I will continue to support initiatives that foster small business growth, as these enterprises are the backbone of our local economy.

“I deeply value the trust and support you have placed in me, and I promise to remain accessible, transparent, and dedicated in my service. Together, we can continue to make District 1 and the City of Luverne a place we’re all proud to call home.

“I will have a tent at the Stars & Stripes Over the Lu on July 4. Please stop by and see me. We can discuss any issues or concerns you have with our city. Again, I humbly ask for your support on Aug. 26 at the poll.”