Candidates for Poplarville’s mayoral and Board of Aldermen races addressed voters Thursday evening at a “Meet the Candidates” forum hosted at Pearl River Community College. The event, jointly organized by the Pearl River County Republican and Democratic parties, drew a large crowd eager to hear from contenders ahead of the April 1 Republican primary and June 3 general election.

Mayor Louise Smith, the Republican incumbent, emphasized infrastructure achievements, including new water meters, paved streets, and improvements to parks and cemeteries. Smith also praised city staff, public safety officers, and fellow board members. “Poplarville is on a path of progress,” she said. “We’ve made great strides, and I want to continue moving our city forward.”

David Glenn Bolin, also a Republican and Smith’s challenger, focused on his experience as a local business owner and his connection to the community. Bolin spoke about the importance of growth while preserving Poplarville’s small-town charm. “We want to grow,” he said, “but we’ve got to maintain that small-town feel that makes Poplarville special.”

Incumbent alderman and Mayor Pro Tempore Byron Wells highlighted the importance of improving streets, water infrastructure, and public safety. “We’ve got a good school system, a good college, and we’re working to improve every day,” he said. “Thank you for being here and being involved in our city.”

Jeremiah Johnson, the first alderman candidate to speak, said he’s a longtime Poplarville resident and small business owner. He called for unity on the board andhopeds to preserve the town’s close-knit character. “I don’t want to lose that small-town feel,” he said. “But I want to see the town grow correctly.”

Don Lee, a former alderman and retired state park manager, shared his background managing facilities and navigating government systems. He said his previous experience on the board gives him a unique perspective. “There are always challenges,” he said, “but with the right people, we can move the city forward.”

Russell Miller, a business owner and former law enforcement officer, said he would bring a strategic mindset to the board. He focused his platform on three principles: communication with stakeholders, long-term planning, and a common-sense approach to governance. “We must operate as a team,” he said.

Bobby Nestle, an incumbent alderman and general manager of a regional collision repair company, spoke about the importance of sound budgeting and planning. “There are several projects already underway, and I want to see them through,” he said. “It takes time, patience, and teamwork.”

Janie P. Richardson, the only Democrat in the race and the newest board member after being appointed in 2024, stressed transparency and communication. “Poplarville is about family,” she said. “We may not always agree, but we’re neighbors. We have to work together and talk to each other.”

Marc Sawyer, a planning commission member and youth pastor, emphasized the need to invest in infrastructure for young people. “There’s nothing here for teenagers to do,” he said. “We’re losing opportunities — and revenue — when families have to take their kids elsewhere.”

Anne Gendusa Smith, an incumbent alderwoman and business owner, discussed her role in securing over $3 million in grant funding without raising taxes. She highlighted infrastructure improvements and fiscal responsibility. “We’ve made generational upgrades without increasing the burden on taxpayers,” she said.

Brad Wells, a U.S. Army veteran and local educator, said he brings leadership, budgeting experience, and long-term vision. “We have to think about what kind of city we’re leaving behind for the next generation,” he said. “We need to support small businesses and civic organizations.”

Clifton Worley, a previous exceptional election candidate and current planning commission member, spoke about increasing transparency and livestreaming city meetings. “Not everyone can attend meetings in person,” he said. “But they still deserve to know what’s going on.”

Daniel Brown and Reece Miller were absent from the event due to work and family obligations. Organizers said both candidates remain committed to serving and encouraged voters to contact them directly with questions.

The Republican primary election is set for Tuesday, April 1. Absentee voting is open through noon Saturday, March 29. If necessary, a runoff will take place on April 22. The general election, which includes Richardson and Republican nominees, will be held on June 3.