Hoover City Council Member Q&A Trey Lott

What are the pros and cons of having at-large members on the council as opposed to having members representing specific districts? Submitted by Dave Judd of Hoover.

Hoover has an at large form of government because it requires every councilman to represent all citizens in Hoover and not just the ones who live close to him or her. We have to be aware of issues concerning residents who live in western, central and eastern Hoover neighborhoods. You don’t have to look far to see the disadvantages of having districts where the elected officials are primarily concerned with the area of the city they live in.

How do residents contact members with issues needing resolution? It appears to me that current members reside in the more affluent neighborhoods of the city where more improvements seem to be made. Submitted by Dave Judd of Hoover.

Mayor Ivey and all the Hoover City Council members are easily accessible to help with any problems that you might have. All you have to do is call the switchboard at 444-7500, and you will be given email addresses or a phone number where you can contact one of us. We were elected to serve you and look forward to helping. The council members live in neighborhoods throughout the city, both old and new, and make decisions based on what is best for the city as a whole. That is the advantage of at large representation.

What is the most important result you want to deliver on behalf of Place 1 during this upcoming four-year term?

I think most of us would say that our primary goal is to maintain the high quality of life that we enjoy in Hoover. That means continuing to make fiscally responsible decisions (balanced budgets), supporting our school system, helping our senior citizens, maintaining our excellent parks and looking for more recreational fields for our children and adults.

We’re in the throes of holiday stress. This time of year, what is your favorite “within the city” escape?

I’m a homebody so my favorite “within the city” escape is my basement where I have a sports room that allows me to watch multiple sporting events and drink Milo’s sweet tea. I also love going to Moss Rock Preserve.

What is something readers might be surprised to learn about you?

When I went to the University of South Carolina, I was the mascot my junior year.

Have a question for an upcoming city council member q&a? Email it to rebecca@hooversun.com.