J. Micheal Evans announces run for Centerville Mayor: ‘Let’s get to work.’

CENTERVILLE — Centerville Mayor Pro Tem J. Micheal Evans has officially announced his candidacy for mayor at a campaign event on Monday.

Evans was joined by former Centerville Mayor John Harley and Hebron Fellowship Baptist Church Pastor Dr. Daryl Vining. Harley spoke highly of Evans’ dedication, education, political connections, and ability to devote time.

“I am very proud to endorse my friend, J. Micheal Evans, to be our next mayor,” Harley said.

Evans said after the event he greatly appreciated Harley’s mentorship and felt it has equipped him to serve as mayor.

“He’s always been a great leader and he’s been a great mentor. Having him come out and say that he is endorsing me means more than the world,” Evans said.

Vining spoke next, saying four words stand out about Evans’ personality.

The first was citizen.

“Micheal Evans is a citizen who lives and represents his local community, represents organizations he’s a part of, represents his state, represents his country, and he’s a citizen of Heaven and he represents the kingdom of God well,” Vining said.

The second was student.

“He has matriculated through wonderful institutions, obtaining bachelors and masters degrees and going on to continue his education through different institutions that would make him effective in every aspect of his life,” Vining said.

The third was soldier.

“Being a soldier’s in his DNA, which means that he’ll fight for those who can’t fight for themselves. He’ll stand up for those who don’t have the might to stand up for themselves,” Vining said.

The last was servant.

“He’s found ways to serve his community, being on councils and committees. He served through his fraternity; he served his family. He’s a husband, he’s a father, he’s a grandpop, he’s a servant,” Vining said.

With support from key community figures, Evans laid out his vision for Centerville.

“We’ve got to build on our successes, confront our challenges and shape a brighter future for our residents,” Evans said.

Evans’ first priority, he said, was strengthening partnerships with Robins Air Force Base, saying the base is an economic and community landmark. He expressed a desire to create programs to better transition citizens from military to civilian life and ensure Centerville stays welcoming to the military.

“Under my leadership, I will continue to enhance our collaboration with the base. I will work tirelessly to support our military families and ensure infrastructure that meets their needs and I will advocate for initiatives that will keep Robins as a vital component of our national security and our economy,” Evans said.

Evans also mentioned public safety, saying he would work to ensure departments have the training and resources to keep the community safe, amid concerns of rising crime.

“The safety of our residents is not negotiable. That’s something that we have to do,” Evans said.

Another priority for Evans is fiscal responsibility and transparency in government spending, adding he wants to streamline city processes, prioritize necessary spending, attract new businesses and seek grant opportunities to help ease citizen tax burdens.

“I know the burden of taxes, that it can place on hardworking families and business people. It always does. That’s why I’m committed to fiscal responsible government, to use your taxes and dollars efficiently and transparently,” Evans said.

Evans also wants to expand recreational and community spaces, encouraging residents and visitors to visit Center Park.

“Whether it’s upgrading our playground, creating walking and biking spaces and trails, or offering diverse recreational activities, I want to ensure that every family has opportunities to enjoy the outdoors and to bond with their neighbors. A vibrant recreational system not only improves our quality of life, but it also attracts visitors and residents to our city,” Evans said.

Finally, Evans said he wants to make overall improvements to quality of life, like affordable housing, public transportation, access to healthcare, quality education and cultural and arts programs, so all residents have the opportunity to succeed.

“Prioritizing on these initiatives, we can create a city that works for everyone, no matter their background or their income level,” Evans said.

Finally, Evans thanked attendees for their support, saying Centerville can be a shining example of a small city with a big heart.

“I invite all of you to join me. Together, we can make Centerville a better place to live, work and raise a family. Thank you for your support, for your trust and your belief in our shared future. So now, let’s get to work,” Evans said.

After 27 years in the Air Force and Air Force Reserves, Evans moved to Centerville in 2007. He has a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from The Citadel and a Master’s degree in Management and Administration from Webster University. He has served for ten years on Centerville City Council.

Post 2 Councilman Justin Wright is also running for mayor. Election Day is June 17.