As part of the Mobile Chamber’s 2025 Election Guide, we invited each candidate running for Mobile City Council and mayor of Mobile to respond to a series of questions to help inform our members and the public ahead of the August 26 municipal election. 

The Mobile Chamber’s 2025 Election Guide is a nonpartisan resource focused exclusively on the mayoral and city council races that will shape the future of Mobile. These local leaders are instrumental in setting policies that impact economic development, infrastructure, public safety and overall quality of life.

While the Chamber does not endorse candidates, our goal is to provide voters with clear, factual information about those seeking public office, especially those committed to job creation, workforce development and fostering a strong, pro-business climate.

We encourage every voter to be informed and engaged. Your voice and your vote are vital to shaping Mobile’s future.

Meet the Candidates from each district for Mobile City Council:

District 1 | District 2 | District 3 | District 4 | District 5 | District 6 | District 7

Meet the Mayoral Candidates:

Spiro Cheriogotis | Barbara Drummond | Connie Hudson | Paul Prine

The responses from the City Council candidates are printed in their entirety and have not been edited.

If a candidate’s responses do not appear, the candidate did not respond.

Candidate’s Full Name

William Matthew Frazier

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk

Josh Woods

Campaign Website/Social Media:

Matt Frazier: Matt Frazier for City Council District 6

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: paulonderdonk.org  F:   https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61575496037829

Josh Woods: www.votejoshwoods.com

Current Occupation:

Matt Frazier: Electrician

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: Law Enforcement

Josh Woods: City Council Member District 6 / Executive Director of the Greater Gulf State Fair and The Grounds

Previous Public Offices Held (if any):

Matt Frazier: None

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: None

Josh Woods: Current City Council Member District 6

Why are you running for Mobile City Council, and what qualifies you to represent your district effectively?

Matt Frazier: I believe Mobile City needs strong leadership and a strong voice from the middle class working person. I am a leader and I also have a strong respect for God and our Constitutional Rights. I can work with anyone to find solutions to problems using Common Sense and Integrity.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: Why I’m Running? It’s because the city needs real change, we need leaders not politicians. I’m not a politician. I’m not a business owner. I’m a veteran, a police officer, and a neighbor. I’ve served for over 25years, and now I’m stepping up to serve District 6 on the City Council-because we deserve a voice that truly represents us. No politics-just real service, for the people.

Josh Woods: I sought, and once again am seeking, to represent the residents of District 6 because I believe District 6 is where Mobile comes home to each evening. I want to ensure it is the safest, most complete, and the best place to raise a family. Most importantly, I believe everyone should have a voice. I work day in and day out to carry my constituents voice to 205 Government St each and every Tuesday. If Mobile as a whole is going to be the best place to live, work, and play, we have to ensure we have elected officials that put the work in. I have shown I do just that.

I have a track record over the last year and a half since elected showing that I am a consensus builder, a problem solver, and have the ability to ensure progress is made on behalf of my constituents. I listen to the needs, I constantly drive and walk my neighborhoods, and I know and have relationships with my residents.

As Councilmember, I also understand I am one of seven, it takes five votes to do anything, and District 6’s vote has an impact on the future of the City as a whole. It is my responsibility to be knowledgable about all issues impacting the City, study and research every vote I have to make, and work together with my colleagues to move our City forward.

I believe my time on Council has shown this about me.

What do you believe is the most important issue or project in your district, and how do you plan to address it if elected?

Matt Frazier: I believe Safety is top priority, I will work towards getting our Police and Firefighters the tools and man/woman power that they need to work efficiently and to keep our community safe.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: The most important issue in our district is crime and public safety. Too many residents feel unsafe in their own neighborhoods, whether it’s due to violent crime, property theft, or slow emergency response times. We can’t have strong communities or attract new investment if people don’t feel secure where they live and work.

If elected, I will work to strengthen community policing efforts—ensuring that our officers are not just responding to crime, but building relationships with the neighborhoods they serve. I will advocate for better funding for Mobile Police Department training, equipment, and recruitment, especially to address staffing shortages that impact response times.

At the same time, we must also invest in the root causes of crime—like youth engagement, job opportunities, and mental health resources. I’ll push for a citywide public safety strategy that combines strong law enforcement with proven prevention efforts, including partnerships with local churches, nonprofits, and schools.

Public safety is not a one-department job. It’s a citywide commitment—and I will make it my top priority from day one.

Josh Woods: Every issue—big or small—matters deeply to the residents of District 6. Why? Because in that moment, it’s the most important thing to them. Listening, responding, and fully understanding each issue is how real representation happens.

Ongoing legacy style issues and projects, although being addressed, continue to remain traffic, neighborhood repaving, and appropriate residential/commercial development. As I mentioned, District 6 is where Mobile comes home to each evening. The District is predominantly neighborhoods and micro-communities and therefore the issues revolve primarily around day to day life. It is important that the focus not get lost when it comes to District CIP and City budget. The District has to have representation that understands the full picture and can work in concert with City administration to further progress in these areas.

How will you work with the Mobile Chamber to attract and retain businesses in the City of Mobile?

Matt Frazier: I will work towards finding ways to cut taxes for small businesses, as I know how hard it is being a small business and getting started.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: The Mobile Chamber plays a vital role in driving economic development, and as a member of the City Council, I will prioritize a strong, collaborative relationship with them. My focus will be on creating a business-friendly environment that supports both large employers and local entrepreneurs.

First, I’ll work closely with the Chamber to identify and streamline city policies that may be slowing down business growth—such as permitting delays, zoning challenges, or outdated ordinances. I’ll also support incentive programs that are smart, targeted, and accountable—ensuring we attract new industries while delivering a clear return for taxpayers.

Equally important, I’ll advocate for investments in workforce development, partnering with the Chamber, local schools, and training programs to ensure that Mobile’s residents are ready to fill the jobs we’re working to bring here.

Finally, I’ll push for strong communication and alignment between the Chamber, the City Council, and community stakeholders so we’re attracting businesses that not only boost our economy but also uplift our neighborhoods.

Josh Woods: I have and will continue to always take a call, answer an email, or meet with the Chamber and its team. Elected officials have to constantly be listening and learning in order to lead the City into the future. The chamber provides resources like research, ideas and concepts from their work with Chambers around the country, and a committed team. In addition, the chamber’s members provide a diverse voice of individuals and industry. By working together, by pulling in the same direction, we can continue to make our City the place to operate a business. I as a City Councilmember will continue to use the resources the Chamber provides to ensure common sense ordinances are in place, advocate for clear and concise processes from government, and ensure open communication between the Council seat and the business community.

What is your position on offering competitive, performance-based incentives to support existing industry expansion and new company relocation to the Mobile area?

Matt Frazier: I will work towards finding ways to cut taxes for small businesses, as I know how hard it is being a small business and getting started.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: The Mobile Chamber plays a vital role in driving economic development, and as a member of the City Council, I will prioritize a strong, collaborative relationship with them. My focus will be on creating a business-friendly environment that supports both large employers and local entrepreneurs.

First, I’ll work closely with the Chamber to identify and streamline city policies that may be slowing down business growth—such as permitting delays, zoning challenges, or outdated ordinances. I’ll also support incentive programs that are smart, targeted, and accountable—ensuring we attract new industries while delivering a clear return for taxpayers.

Equally important, I’ll advocate for investments in workforce development, partnering with the Chamber, local schools, and training programs to ensure that Mobile’s residents are ready to fill the jobs we’re working to bring here.

Finally, I’ll push for strong communication and alignment between the Chamber, the City Council, and community stakeholders so we’re attracting businesses that not only boost our economy but also uplift our neighborhoods.

Josh Woods: I have and will continue to always take a call, answer an email, or meet with the Chamber and its team. Elected officials have to constantly be listening and learning in order to lead the City into the future. The chamber provides resources like research, ideas and concepts from their work with Chambers around the country, and a committed team. In addition, the chamber’s members provide a diverse voice of individuals and industry. By working together, by pulling in the same direction, I as a City

How would you advocate for small business growth, especially in underserved areas of the city?

Matt Frazier: I believe a clean and beautiful City that is safe brings new business prospects to our City. I believe compensation and rewards should be directly linked to hard work and performance.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: I believe in smart, performance-based incentives—but with a focus on supporting locally owned small businesses and helping existing industries grow. Too often, we see large corporations get big tax breaks to move here, only to provide limited long-term benefit to our community.

Instead, we should be prioritizing local entrepreneurs, family-owned businesses, and Mobile-based companies that have already invested in our city and created jobs here. These businesses are the backbone of our economy—and they’re the ones more likely to stay, hire locally, and give back.

I would support targeted incentives that are tied to clear benchmarks: good-paying jobs, local hiring, and long-term community impact. But I’m cautious about offering large packages to big out-of-town corporations unless the return on investment for Mobile residents is clear, measurable, and enforceable.

My goal is to build a more resilient, homegrown economy, not just chase the next big deal. That means investing in the businesses that are already part of our community’s fabric.

Josh Woods: I support responsible, performance-based incentives that bring long-term value to Mobile. Incentives, when implemented correctly, can help us grow jobs in our city, expand our tax base, and stay competitive with other cities in our region and even in the State.

With these incentives, we must insure there is transparency, there is an approach that is tied to real outcomes, and benefit our workforce. I believe in growing industry with the community, not at its expense.

Do you support streamlining permitting, licensing and development processes? If so, what specific improvements would you pursue?

Matt Frazier: Tax breaks for new small businesses

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: Supporting small business growth in underserved areas is one of the best ways to create jobs, build wealth locally, and revitalize our neighborhoods. If elected, I’ll make it a top priority to remove the barriers that too often hold back entrepreneurs in these parts of our city.

First, I’ll push for a Small Business Support Fund that provides microgrants or low-interest loans to help with start-up costs, renovations, or equipment—especially for minority-owned and women-owned businesses. I’ll also work to simplify the permitting and licensing process, which can be especially difficult for first-time business owners.

Second, I want to create Business Resource Hubs in underserved districts—partnering with local organizations to provide mentorship, training, and technical support for entrepreneurs who need help with business plans, marketing, or accessing capital.

Third, I’ll champion targeted infrastructure improvements—like better lighting, sidewalks, and broadband access—that make business corridors in underserved areas safer and more attractive to customers.

Finally, I’ll fight to ensure that city contracts and economic development opportunities don’t just go to the biggest players. We need inclusive procurement policies that give small, local businesses a real chance to compete.

Small businesses create local pride, local jobs, and long-term stability. That’s exactly what underserved neighborhoods in Mobile deserve—and I’ll work every day to deliver it.

Josh Woods: Small businesses are the backbone of every city and that includes the ones in underserved neighborhoods that often get overlooked. We must continue to identify and push for targeted support like access to capital, streamlined permitting, and mentorship programs through partnerships with the Chamber and local organizations. The City has done a great job with a frame work and partners of support, we must push to educate our citizens about the opportunities.

What is your approach to infrastructure investment (roads, drainage, broadband, etc.) and how do you see it supporting economic growth in your district and throughout Mobile?

Matt Frazier: Yes I do! I believe having the staff working in the permitting, licensing, and development office should have continuing education classes on the processes in these departments to keep improving on how to help point customers in the right direction and make it less of a hassle.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: Yes, I fully support streamlining permitting, licensing, and development processes in the City of Mobile. Right now, too many entrepreneurs, builders, and small business owners face unnecessary delays and red tape when trying to invest in our city—and that slows down growth, especially in underserved areas.

If elected, I would push for several specific improvements:

Create a centralized, user-friendly online portal where business owners and developers can track their applications, submit documents, and communicate with city departments in real-time.

Implement clear timelines and accountability for permit approvals, so applicants know exactly what to expect—and who to contact—if there’s a delay.

Simplify and modernize zoning and code regulations, especially where outdated rules are holding back mixed-use, small-scale, or community-focused development.

Offer a dedicated permitting liaison or “navigator” service to help small businesses and first-time applicants work through the process step-by-step.

Regularly review and revise permitting policies in consultation with local business owners, developers, and community stakeholders to make sure the process stays fair, fast, and responsive.

Making it easier to do business in Mobile—without sacrificing safety or standards—is essential to attracting investment and growing our local economy. It’s time to move at the speed of business, not bureaucracy.

Josh Woods: Yes. We must make this a priority as a whole. Council must work in concert with the administration and its team to ensure that there are commonsense ordinances, policies, and procedures in place. Education of the process and its requirements as well as ease of access is a big piece of the puzzle as well.

One area I feel passionately about and have been pushing is pursuing a West Mobile City annex that contains departments that are needed for permitting and public services. This would greatly help with ease of access and support of citizens.

Public safety is a concern for residents and employers alike. What steps would you take to make Mobile safer and more business-friendly?

Matt Frazier: I believe investing in drainage and roads need to be a top priority as i believe no one appreciates vehicle repairs due to pot holes. I also believe that the community as a whole would get out supporting more local businesses if we had streets that are inviting to travel on and does not flood everytime we have a little rain.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: Infrastructure is the foundation of economic growth and quality of life. In many parts of Mobile—including in my district—we’re dealing with aging roads, and poor drainage. These aren’t just inconveniences; they’re barriers to business development, public safety, and community pride.

If elected, my approach will focus on equity, accountability, and long-term impact. I will advocate for prioritizing infrastructure projects in neglected and underserved areas that have been overlooked for too long. That means resurfacing roads, improving street lighting, and upgrading drainage systems to reduce flooding.

I’ll also push for transparency in how infrastructure dollars are spent—so that residents can see where their tax money is going and when they can expect improvements in their neighborhoods.

Investing in infrastructure is not just about fixing problems—it’s about creating the conditions for economic opportunity. Better roads attract investment. Reliable drainage protects homes and businesses. These are basic needs, and it’s time we treat them as top priorities.

Josh Woods: Investment in infrastructure is a top priority for me and I consider it a core responsibility of municipal government. Improved roads and drainage directly impact quality of life and open the door for business investment. In District 6, I push to prioritize infrastructure that solves real problems now while preparing us for the future.

Over the last two budget cycles the majority of District CIP funds have been directed towards traffic light improvements, repaving, stormwater management, and sidewalk repairs. These investments don’t just fix today’s issues—they make Mobile more attractive for employers, entrepreneurs, and families looking to put down roots. In the next budget cycle a little over $3million of District CIP funds will be going towards repaving in neighborhoods with a good portion going towards repaving of newly annexed neighborhoods. Storm water mapping is currently in the works and a road assessment has recently been completed to help identify infrastructure priorities in the District as well as across the City.

What is your approach to new and affordable housing in Mobile, and will you support policies that encourage diverse housing options to meet the needs of the workforce and growing population?

Matt Frazier: I will bring attention to the fact that the Police and Firefighters are terribly understaffed and work on a solution for this problem.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: Public safety and economic growth go hand in hand. When residents feel safe and businesses can operate without fear of crime, our entire city thrives. If elected, I’ll take a proactive, community-focused approach to improving safety across Mobile.

First, I’ll advocate for fully staffing and properly equipping the Mobile Police Department, while also ensuring officers have strong community engagement training. We need more visible, neighborhood-based policing—not just to respond to crime, but to build trust with residents and business owners.

Second, I’ll support investments in technology and infrastructure, such as street lighting, cameras in high-traffic areas, and better traffic safety enforcement—especially around schools, business corridors, and neighborhoods with higher crime rates.

Third, I’ll push for stronger youth programs, job training, and mental health services, because long-term safety comes from preventing crime before it starts. We must address root causes, not just symptoms.

Finally, I’ll work with the business community to identify specific challenges they face—from vandalism to loitering to slow emergency response—and ensure the city is responsive and accountable. Making Mobile safer isn’t just a police issue—it’s a citywide commitment to stronger neighborhoods, better opportunities, and a shared sense of responsibility

Josh Woods: Safe communities attract strong businesses. Strong businesses provide the employment for us and our neighbors from years to come. I’d continue pushing for investment in public safety—supporting our police and fire departments with the tools, training, and staffing they need. In the coming budget cycles we will see some legacy liabilities be satisfied which further frees up cash flow within the budget. I feel conversations of ensuing we are providing desirable pay and benefits to our police and fire departments need to start beginning. Attraction and retention of employees to fill these positions is vital.

But, safety also comes from good lighting, clean streets, and active neighborhoods. I believe in a full-circle approach: smart policing, youth engagement, and community partnerships. When people feel safe walking their streets and opening a small business in their communities, that’s when neighborhoods and businesses both thrive.

What role do you believe public transportation should play in Mobile’s growth, and how will you support improvements that connect residents to jobs education, and essential services?

Matt Frazier: I do support new and affordable housing as I have noticed a big problem with homelessness in our area. I believe strengthening our public transportation could help with the workforce problems.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: Yes, I fully support affordable housing and policies that promote a diverse mix of housing options to meet the needs of our workforce, families, seniors, and young professionals. Housing affordability is a growing issue in Mobile, and if we want to attract and retain a strong workforce, we must ensure that people can afford to live in the city where they work.

My approach includes:

Encouraging mixed-income developments that include affordable units while promoting neighborhood stability and diversity.

Streamlining zoning and permitting to make it easier and faster for developers to build affordable and workforce housing—especially on vacant or underused lots.

Incentivizing infill development and adaptive reuse of existing buildings to create affordable housing without pushing residents out of their communities.

Supporting first-time homebuyer assistance programs and partnerships with local nonprofits to help families build generational wealth through homeownership.

Ensuring affordable housing is spread across all districts, not concentrated in just a few areas—so every neighborhood shares in growth and opportunity.

Housing is a human need and an economic necessity. I’ll work to make sure Mobile’s growth includes room for everyone—not just the few who can afford rising costs.

 

Josh Woods: Public transportation plays a big role in how we grow as a city. The current way our public transportation system is structured and the way it works is inefficient and time consuming. Our system is also currently underutilized as a result of its state. Public transportation is not just about getting around—it’s about making sure folks can get to work, to school, to the doctor, and back home without it being a struggle. I believe in a system that works for everyone—that means more reliable routes, and better connections to job hubs.

I have had the opportunity to begin working with stakeholders as a council point on this issue. We are currently in the middle of working through and exploring all options to improve the system. The result we get to may not look like what we have in existence, but we are working toward a better solution. I greatly appreciate the involvement the Chamber has had and facilitated as we continue to work through this process.

What is your vision for Mobile’s economic future, and how will your leadership help advance that vision citywide and in your district?

Matt Frazier: I believe Mobile’s economic future could be unlimited with the correct leadership in place. Mobile is the Port City, the sky is the limit. I am a blue collar hard working man that believes that the working class family are the ones that keep the economy going and growing. I believe tax breaks for new small businesses to get on their feet is essential ensure that everyone here with a vision has the opportunity to flourish.

Paul “DONK” Onderdonk: My vision for Mobile’s economic future is a city where opportunity is accessible to all residents, where local businesses thrive, and where growth is inclusive, sustainable, and rooted in community strength.

I see a Mobile that embraces its rich history while innovating for the future—leveraging our strategic location as a port city, investing in workforce development, and supporting small businesses and entrepreneurs in every neighborhood.

To advance this vision, my leadership will focus on:

Building partnerships with the Mobile Chamber, local businesses, and community organizations to create job opportunities and attract responsible investment.

Prioritizing infrastructure and public safety improvements that create a foundation for growth and make neighborhoods safer and more attractive.

Championing policies that support small, locally owned businesses, especially in underserved areas, because they create jobs and keep wealth in our community.

Promoting workforce training and education programs that prepare residents for the high-demand industries moving into Mobile.

Ensuring transparency and accountability so that economic development efforts deliver real benefits to residents citywide and especially in my district.

I believe Mobile’s best days are ahead. With inclusive leadership and focused action, we can build a stronger, more resilient economy that works for everyone.

Josh Woods: The vision I have for the City of Mobile is simple—we should be the best city to live, work, and play in. That means creating real access to education, training, housing, and careers. I want Mobile to be the kind of place where my three boys can grow up, find meaningful work, and raise their own families. Every decision I make and every plan I’m a part of is driven by that long view.

I see a Mobile that grows with intention—not just downtown, but across all districts. As I’ve said many times, District 6 is the place Mobile comes home to. And as its representative, I work every day to make sure our neighborhoods are thriving—full of neighbors who know each other, businesses that serve them, and infrastructure that supports their day to day life and future. My leadership is focused on smart growth that helps all of Mobile move forward—starting right here in District 6.

Mobile Chamber’s 2025 Election Guide: Mayoral and City Council Races

The Mobile Chamber’s 2025 Election Guide is a nonpartisan resource designed to help voters prepare for the upcoming August 26 municipal election. This guide focuses exclusively on the mayoral and city council races that will shape the future of Mobile.

View the Mobile Chamber’s 2025 Election Guide.

Click the name of the mayoral candidate to learn about their positions and priorities:

Spiro Cheriogotis | Barbara Drummond | Connie Hudson | Paul Prine

Click the district to view the candidates for Mobile City Council to learn their positions and priorities:

District 1 | District 2 | District 3 | District 4 | District 5 | District 6 | District 7