Editor’s Note: As a courtesy to our readers and community, The Walker Leader is providing space for each qualified candidate in the upcoming Jasper municipal election to share information about themselves and their goals for office. These profiles are submitted directly by the candidates and are published as received, with only minor edits for clarity or length when necessary.
The Walker Leader does not endorse any candidate for office. Our goal is to inform, not influence. We encourage all eligible voters to read, research, and participate in the voting process.
Name: Jennifer Williams Smith
How long you’ve lived in Jasper: From Jasper Travelers mascot to Walker Viking cheerleader, I’ve been cheering for Jasper all my life. Since 1996, I have lived, worked, played, and raised a family in District 4. My late husband, Lee, and I started out on 7th Avenue, where our children were born, then moved to 9th, and now I’m on 4th. Through life’s highs and lows, my District 4 neighbors have been right there with me. I want to always show up for them too.
Family: My parents, B.B. and Mary Buck, coached sports or taught school and swimming lessons to just about everyone in Walker County. I have two brothers who have blessed me with the best extended family, especially Eli, the youngest in the bunch who always keeps us smiling.
Lee and I were blessed with two amazing children, Sawyer and Brylee. I’m also the proud mom of two four-legged family members: Trap Lee, and BK (short for Baby Kitty), who is still going strong at 15.
Why are you running for City Council?
Because I love where I live! After serving District 4 for the past 13 years, I feel called to continue being a steady, approachable voice, especially during this time of transition with new leadership coming in. I want to keep building on the momentum we’ve created and ensure Jasper stays a place where everyone feels heard and valued.
What key issues will be your top priorities if elected?
- Supporting thoughtful, people-centered growth
- Prioritizing safety, infrastructure, and walkability
- Advocating for community-wide access to mental health and addiction resources
- Strengthening quality-of-life initiatives that help make Jasper a healthier, more connected community
- Expanding initiatives like after-school and supplemental education programs for ALL children
What personal or professional experiences have best prepared you for this role?
Before serving on the council, I worked for the City of Jasper and had the opportunity to open the Natatorium. From there, I created and supported programs like Aquanauts, Dream Team, 50 Plus, disc golf, APEX, and more. That role gave me firsthand experience listening to the needs and wants of our community and turning those conversations into action. Outside of my council responsibilities, I continue to serve through my work with dreamFIT and countywide literacy efforts. I’ve also represented Jasper through the Alabama League of Municipalities and other statewide programs, always working to bring local voices to the table. These experiences have prepared me to lead with compassion, collaboration, and purpose.
What’s one thing you love about Jasper?
The energy here feels like home. It’s the familiar wave from a neighbor, the support at a ballgame, and the way this community shows up for each other when it matters most. Jasper isn’t just where I live. It’s part of who I am.
Favorite local event, spot, or tradition:
Foothills Festival, hands down. It was the first event I helped bring back after being elected in 2012, and it’s been incredible to watch it grow into something that brings our community together. It also brings in visitors from out of town who spend time and money here, which helps our local businesses and shows just how much Jasper is flourishing.
Something others might be surprised to know about you:
I was the “uh-oh” baby, born 11 years after my brothers and weighing in at 10 pounds, 4 ounces. They were convinced I’d be a boy and had already picked out the name Oscar Carter, planning to call me OC. Instead, I arrived as Jennifer Michele, named after Jeffery and Michael, and ended up nicknamed “Chic.”
