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ZEBULON - The next Election is November 4, 2025. There will be three Municipal General Election Races and two Special Election Public Service Commission races on the ballot.
There will be contested elections in Williamson and Zebulon with an uncontested election in Concord.
Molena will also have a vote on the ballot concerning fluoride in the water.
Important Information to Know
Pike County Board of Elections and Voter Registration has provided the following information about the upcoming election.
October 6 is the last day to register or change your address. Visit https://mvp.sos.ga.gov/s/ to update your registration or change your address.
Tuesday, October 14-31 will be Advance / Early Voting In Person at the Registrar’s Office at 81 Jackson Street in Zebulon. Early voting will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. (Monday, October 13 is a federal holiday.)
October 18 and 25 will be Saturday Advance / Early Voting in Person at the Registrar’s Office at 81 Jackson Street in Zebulon. Early Voting will be from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Friday, October 24 will be the last day to request an Absentee by Mail Ballot Application. To Request an Absentee by Mail Ballot visit https://securemyabsenteeballot.sos.ga.gov/s/.
Election Day will be on Tuesday, November 4, 2025. Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
PLEASE NOTE: Each candidate was asked to tell why they are the best candidate for the job in 500 words or less without mentioning their opponent.
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION (PSC) - Statewide Races
There are two contested seats in this statewide election. Both of these statewide seats will be on the ballot for everyone in the county while the municipal (city) elections below this section will only be on the ballots of those living within the city limits of each municipality.
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION - DISTRICT 2
Incumbent Tim Echols (R) will be facing Alicia Johnson (D) in this race.
Click here to find out more about the Public Service Commission and the importance of this race as well as read Ballotpedia information for each of the candidates: ballotpedia.org/Georgia_Public_Service_Commission_election,_2025.
PUBLIC SERVICE COMMISSION - DISTRICT 3
Incumbent Fitz Johnson (R) will be facing Peter Hubbard (D) in this race.
Click here to find out more about the Public Service Commission and the importance of this race as well as read Ballotpedia information for each of the candidates: ballotpedia.org/Georgia_Public_Service_Commission_election,_2025.
WILLIAMSON
There are two contested seats in the City of Williamson. These seats will be listed in alphabetical order with any incumbents listed first in the list of candidates.
Williamson City Council Post 2 is currently held by Bobby Harrison, Jr. He is being challenged by Chris Gordon.
WILLIAMSON CITY COUNCIL POST 2
Bobby Harrison, Jr. - Incumbent
[Note from the Editor: Candidate Harrison has advised Pike County Times that he will be sending his statement as soon as possible. It will be added here when I receive it.]
WILLIAMSON CITY COUNCIL POST 2
Chris Gordon - Challenger
Hello, my name is Chris Gordon, and I’m honored to announce my candidacy for City Council Post 2 in the great city of Williamson.
Although my wife Samantha and I are recent residents, my roots in Williamson run deep. My grandparents lived here for over 30 years, and my parents have called this community home for more than a decade. We chose Williamson for its small-town charm, safe neighborhoods, and excellent school system—values that reflect the kind of life we want to build and protect.
I hold an Associate of Science degree in Chemistry from Gordon College and a Commercial Driver’s License. I currently serve as a Maintenance Planner at Heidelberg Materials, where I’ve worked for over six years in various roles including Mixing Operator, Plant Lead, and Dispatcher. These positions have equipped me with valuable experience in leadership, budgeting, and operational efficiency. My time as a dispatcher, in particular, sharpened my ability to process complex information, prioritize effectively, and make strategic decisions under pressure—skills I believe are essential for serving on the City Council.
If elected, I will work collaboratively with the mayor and fellow council members to strengthen our city’s infrastructure and support our first responders. This includes paving and maintaining roads and pursuing grant opportunities to ensure our emergency services have the resources they need. I am also committed to enhancing our quality of life by revitalizing local parks, completing the amphitheater project, and championing our small businesses.
I approach public service with a solutions-focused mindset—driven to move projects forward and eliminate unnecessary roadblocks. I believe Williamson deserves thoughtful leadership that honors its past while planning responsibly for its future. I am confident that my background, work ethic, and dedication to this community would make me the right candidate for Post 2.
I would be truly grateful for your support and your vote.
Chris Gordon
Phone: 770-467-7469
Email: rg135171@yahoo.com
FB page: Chris Gordon for Williamson City Council
Williamson City Council Post 3 is currently held by Tom Brown. He is being challenged by John Smithson.
WILLIAMSON CITY COUNCIL POST 3
Tom Brown - Incumbent
It has been my honor to be elected twice by the citizens to the council. I served on the Planning Commission before my election. I chose to donate my first two years’ salary to aid in paying needs-based citizens’ water bills. I swore an oath to follow the charter and ordinances of the city, which I have achieved.
For me, adding restrictions to politicians who control the purse strings, is a great way to protect our citizens and city. With no purchasing policy when I was elected, I spear headed an ordinance. To me, without a clear policy for how the taxpayer's money is being spent could be ripe for mismanagement. This ordinance has saved thousands of taxpayer dollars.
I also introduced a water system audit, to compare what water we paid for as a city, versus what we billed. The water loss began at over 50%, as of today it sits at less than 10%.
My background as a Utility Contractor allowed me access to AT&T seeking adoption of our city as a project. By the end of this year, all of Williamson and beyond, will be served with high speed internet, with absolutely no cost to the taxpayers of our city. There are countless citizens I have assisted with their service. I am proudest of this accomplishment as it will aid those working from home and those who home school.
Spot zoning in residential areas creates havoc for our city, and makes citizens homes near the spot zoning increase in value and results in higher taxes. We were asked to approve an application for batting cages. The bought property was zoned residential and was in our oldest African American community. Those residents asked that we protect their homes, which the council did, by majority vote. Most of our new residents moved from cities and counties because of such spot zoning. Keep in mind, if the requested business fails, it remains commercial and is open to any type business within that zoning. There are plenty of areas in our county or nearby that this business would be a great fit.
As a councilman, my job is to protect the tax paying citizens from unbridled commercial growth. We have approved quite a few businesses for our city. The event center was approved with an operational agreement, so it does not impose any quality-of-life concerns for those living near the facility. We approved a restaurant and car wash fairly quickly with restrictions. With our street system in that area and our own zoning laws, there had to be some meeting of the minds to get them approved.
Finally, I am proud of my service to the citizens. I spoken my mind, stood firmly on what the law required, and what the citizens ask of me to protect their investment. Again, I ask for your vote and support.
I can be reached at 770-550-0327 or via email at jtb59@bellsouth.net, if you have any questions.
WILIAMSON CITY COUNCIL POST 3
John Smithson - Challenger
My name is John Smithson, and I am honored to run for Williamson City Council. Williamson is where my wife Dalyn and I are raising our daughter, Sanoah, and building our future together. Our family owns and operates Sanoah Springs, a wedding and event venue named after our daughter, which has become a gathering place for families throughout our community. I also serve as a manager at Total Service Solutions in Peachtree City, where I lead teams with a focus on integrity, accountability, and excellence.
My Christian faith has always been the foundation of my life, and it guides the way I serve others. I believe true leadership means working with honesty, compassion, and a commitment to doing what is right. That is why I often volunteer my time to help with projects around Williamson, not for recognition or money, but because I care deeply about this community and want it to thrive.
One of my priorities is investing in the heart of our community. I believe our park, library, and amphitheater are not luxuries but essential parts of what makes Williamson a great place to live. I am committed to improving our park, supporting the library, and seeing the amphitheater project completed so that families and neighbors have spaces to gather, grow, and connect. While some would reduce or eliminate funding for these places, I believe they should be strengthened, not cut away.
In addition to my business and professional work, I currently serve on the Williamson Planning Commission, where I have gained firsthand experience in balancing growth with preserving the small town character that makes Williamson so special. This role has deepened my commitment to making thoughtful, community centered decisions that put our residents first.
As a council member, my priorities will be:
• Protecting and improving our park, library, and amphitheater as vital parts of community life.
• Responsible growth and planning that honors our history while preparing for our future.
• Support for local businesses so they can continue to strengthen our economy and community.
• Open communication and transparency, ensuring residents always have a voice in city decisions.
My goal is simple. To serve Williamson with integrity, hard work, and a heart for people. I am committed to listening, leading by example, and doing everything I can to make our community an even better place for families like yours and mine.
I respectfully ask for your support and your vote for Williamson City Council. Together, we can continue to build a future that reflects our shared values of faith, family, and community.
You can contact me at 404-488-5929.
Zebulon
Zebulon City Council District 1 Post 1 is currently held by William Thomas. He is not running for re-election. Rufus Clemmons, Jr. and Sarah Beth Mohammed are running for this seat.
ZEBULON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 POST 1
RUFUS CLEMMONS JR. - CHALLENGER
Greetings, fellow Zebulon residents! I'm Rufus Clemmons Jr., a proud native of Zebulon and a lifelong Pike County resident. I am announcing my candidacy for Zebulon City Councilman to represent District 1.
I attended Pike County High School, where I excelled in both academics and athletics. I went on to earn several degrees in college. As an ordained minister, I'm a firm believer in servant leadership, which I demonstrate through my work with my nonprofits, Hope 4 Tomorrow, Inc., and Hope 4 Tomorrow Optimist Club of Pike County.
As an entrepreneur, I own Rufus Clemmons Jr. Legacy LLC, where I work as an Independent Contractor. Through my business, I provide a range of services, including Social Services, Community Services, Christian Counseling, and Servant Leadership Trainings to various organizations, such as Family Courts, Drug Courts, Public Schools, and the Department of Family and Children Services. Through these partnerships and my relationships with local businesses, churches, and residents, I've learned the importance of building relationships and working toward the common good.
I'm honored to have served on the Pike County Chamber of Commerce Board and currently serve on the Pike County Family Connections Collaborative Board and the Martin Luther King Jr. Committee. For the past 16 years, I've built a strong relationship with the Zebulon City Council while serving on the Zebulon Planning and Zoning Council. I'm aware of the changes needed for our future, and I am committed to working with you to ensure a fair and equitable city for all residents.
I was proud to be a part of the Zebulon's Bicentennial Celebration from September 5-7, which highlighted how beautiful our city is when we come together. I will be a councilman that our district can count on to advocate for you and ensure not only fairness but equality for everyone.
I humbly ask for your vote on November 4, 2025, at the polls. Let's work together to build a better future for our community.
Email: rcjlegacy@outlook.com
Website: www.aservantslegacy.com
Cell: (678) 544-1218
ZEBULON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 1 POST 1
SARAH BETH MOHAMMED - CHALLENGER
I’m Sarah Beth Mohammed, and I am running for City Council, District 1 post 1. I’m a mom, a wife, and a small business owner in our town. I decided to run for City Council because I care about our community and the people that live in it. This is our home and I believe every voice matters when it comes to shaping the future.
I’m not a career politician. I’m a neighbor, a resident, and someone who understands the challenges and opportunities we face every day. I believe in transparency, accountability, and communication. If I am elected, I want to be someone the community can reach out to, someone who listens, and someone who takes action. This isn’t about politics for me this is about service. It’s about making sure everyone, from long time residents to new families, feel heard and valued.
Our community deserves leaders that care, and who work hard to find solutions. If I’m elected, I will focus on safe neighborhoods, supporting our local businesses and clear and honest communication because the citizens deserve to know where their tax dollars are being spent. Communication and transparency are key to a thriving community.
This isn’t about politics it’s about people. I will work hard, Listen and serve with integrity. Thank you for the opportunity to earn your trust and your vote. Together we can make a difference.
Sarah Beth Mohammed
Candidate for City Council
District 1 post 1
Email: sarahbethmohammed@gmail.com
Zebulon City Council District 2 Post 2 is currently held by Anthony Mark Nalls. He is being challenged by Chad Morris and Dewey Yarbough.
ZEBULON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2 POST 2
ANTHONY MARK NALLS - INCUMBENT
Citizens of Zebulon for the past six years it has been an honor to serve my neighborhood and community as city councilman for Zebulon Ga.
My purpose as City Councilman was to seek transparency within the Zebulon governing office and departments to ensure that the people in Zebulon have a representative that will convey their desires for the well-being of their neighborhood and community.
During my term, I have been very vocal as your voice concerning many issues within Zebulon such as, code enforcement, permitting, property in neglect, growth and expansion, all projects requiring spending of our tax dollars. Questioning the need for costly projects and correctness of said projects.
It is my desire to continue as your city councilman for an additional term of four years. I hope my performance and desire for results has proven worthy to the citizens of Zebulon.
My 40+ years’ experience in business, centering on purchasing and planning can continue to be an asset as Zebulon’s district 2 post 2 councilman.
I humbly ask that you cast your vote for myself at the upcoming City of Zebulon elections on November 4, 2025.
Background
My wife Mary and I grew up in small South Georgia towns-Bluffton and Bainbridge Ga. I attended Clay County High and Bainbridge College.
Earlier this year I was fortunate to be able to take an early retirement package offered by my employer Panasonic Automotive in Peachtree City, Ga. For the past 18 years I have held the position of Purchasing Commodity Manager. In this role, I was responsible for vendor selection, completion of Purchasing Agreements and managing component annual dollar spend of 200 million dollars, of which I consistently negotiated yearly cost downs +4%.
My bride of 38 years Mary and I moved from Fayetteville Ga. to Zebulon in 2015, looking for the perfect small town for our retirement location. We have two children, both college graduates and productive Georgians and four grandchildren, all are students in the Pike school system.
I am 64 years old, a husband, a father, a grandfather, a Mason and Shriner.
Hobbies are gardening, hunting, fishing and cooking.
With respect,
Anthony Mark Nalls
am_nalls@yahoo.com
ZEBULON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2 POST 2
CHAD MORRIS - CHALLENGER
My name is Chad Morris, and I am running for city council in Zebulon, District 2 Post 2. I am 41 years old and married to my loving wife, Emily Morris, and we have 2 amazing children. I have lived in the city of Zebulon since 2006. I am an Army veteran and served in Operation Iraqi Freedom from 2005 to 2006. Upon returning from Iraq, I remained in the Army Reserves while beginning my law enforcement career in the community where I have resided. I care for the community where I work and live and would appreciate the opportunity to serve the citizens of Zebulon as your councilman. I am a true believer in the Constitution of the United States of America to which I took an oath to uphold. I take great pride in my military service and my law enforcement career.
If elected, I would like to bring more transparency from the governing body to the citizens of Zebulon. Elected officials should always hear the voice of their citizens they serve and make their decisions based on what the people want. As your councilman, I would reach out to the citizens for their input and let them know what is going on in their community. Decisions made by city council affect the community and the lives of its citizens.
I would like to see all city departments have the equipment and personnel to meet the needs of the city of Zebulon as the city continues to grow. Zebulon is going to need more police officers and maintenance workers to keep up with new people moving in and new businesses being established. Growth means more calls for service and the citizens deserve a quick response whether it be the need for police or a water issue or any other issues they may have. We are all aware of the traffic problem in the city, especially during the school year. I believe the city and county officials need to come together to see if there is a better way to alleviate the traffic in the morning and afternoons.
I am against wasteful spending of city funds. City council should make sure that what is being spent is being spent on growing the city and its resources for its citizens. I am sure there may be other concerns and issues that the citizens may have, feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns at chadmorris033@yahoo.com or (770)362-0500. Thank you.
ZEBULON CITY COUNCIL DISTRICT 2 POST 2
DEWEY YARBROUGH - CHALLENGER
With over 40 years of experience in law enforcement, I have dedicated my life to public service, upholding the law, and protecting the well-being of our communities. Throughout those decades, one truth has stood out to me above all: in order to truly serve the people, especially in local government, you must genuinely love your city. My love for Zebulon, Georgia is not just in words—it’s in action, commitment, and an unwavering desire to help our city grow while preserving the values and traditions that make it special.
Zebulon is more than just where I live—it’s where I’ve raised my family, where I’ve built relationships, and where I’ve committed my life’s work. In my law enforcement career, I’ve worked with people from every walk of life, seeing firsthand the challenges our citizens face and the strengths they possess. I’ve listened to their concerns, stood by them during crises, and celebrated with them in times of progress. This experience gives me a unique perspective—one grounded in the day-to-day realities of our community and the importance of trust between government and its people.
Being a councilman is not just about attending meetings or voting on ordinances—it’s about leadership, transparency, and accountability. It’s about ensuring that every voice in our community is heard, not just those who speak the loudest. My long-standing service in law enforcement has taught me the importance of fairness, listening before acting, and making decisions based on both principle and compassion. These are the same qualities I would bring to the city council.
I believe in responsible growth, improved infrastructure, and strong support for our local businesses and schools. But I also believe that progress should never come at the expense of community values. As Zebulon continues to grow and attract new families and opportunities, we need leaders who understand the delicate balance between honoring our heritage and planning for a successful future.
What sets me apart is not only my professional background, but also my deep-rooted commitment to Zebulon’s people. I am not a politician looking to climb a ladder—I am a public servant who wants to give back to the city that has given so much to me. I understand what it means to serve selflessly, to show up when it matters most, and to work tirelessly behind the scenes to get things done.
If elected, I will continue to be a strong voice for public safety, community development, and fiscal responsibility. I will always prioritize the well-being of our citizens, because I believe that when local government works for the people, it builds a stronger, safer, and more unified community.
In short, I love this city. And it is that love—combined with a lifetime of public service—that makes me the best fit for Zebulon’s City Council.
Dewey Yarbrough
404-473-0965
Concord
Concord has three seats up for election that only had one person qualify for office.
The mayoral seat currently held by John Strickland had one person to qualify: Incumbent John Strickland.
Council Post 1 currently held by W. Paul Leslie had one person to qualify: Incumbent William Paul Leslie, Sr.
Council Post 2 currently held by Melissa G. Turgeon had one person to qualify: Stuart Gregg.
Molena
Molena residents will vote on whether fluoride should be added to the public water supply.
Molena currently serves approximately 172 water customers through its municipal water system.
A recent petition regarding the addition of fluoride to the drinking water received roughly 30 signatures, with 18 verified as qualified voters residing within the service area. This meets the threshold required by O.C.G.A. § 12-5-175, which mandates that at least 10% of registered voters from the last general election must sign in order to place the question on the ballot. For Molena, that number was 17.
In response, the City Council unanimously approved placing the fluoride question on the November ballot, allowing Molena residents to decide whether fluoride should be added to the public water supply. While the exact ballot language is still being finalized, the intent is to ask voters directly: Do you wish to have fluoride added to Molena’s drinking water?
Under Georgia law, fluoride is generally required in public water systems unless a municipality opts out through a voter referendum. The law also sets an upper limit of one part per million for fluoride.
Current Water Treatment Practices
Molena Water System does not currently add fluoride. However, the system does:
• Chlorinate the water as required for disinfection.
• Is in the process of installing a phosphate treatment system to bind manganese and iron. This will help reduce discoloration caused when these minerals react with chlorine.
• Filters uranium, a naturally occurring element in the area. The active well occasionally tests 2–5 parts per billion above the EPA’s recommended limit, but filtration systems are in place to reduce or remove uranium from the water supply.
What Else Should Residents Know?
• Benefits of Fluoride: Fluoride has been shown to reduce cavities by up to 25% in both children and adults. It strengthens tooth enamel and helps prevent decay, especially in communities with limited access to dental care.
• Concerns Raised by Opponents: While fluoride is widely endorsed by health organizations, some residents and researchers have raised concerns about potential health effects:
◦Dental fluorosis: Mild discoloration or mottling of teeth, typically from prolonged exposure to high fluoride levels.
◦Skeletal fluorosis: Rare condition involving joint stiffness or bone changes, usually at much higher exposure levels than those used in public water systems.
◦Neurological concerns: Some studies suggest a possible link between moderate fluoride exposure and reduced IQ in children, though findings remain debated and inconclusive.
•Local Control and Transparency: Molena’s referendum is about community choice. Residents will decide whether to begin fluoridation or continue without it. Regardless of the outcome, Molena remains committed to safe, transparent, and responsive water management.
Fluoride Referendum Q&A Sheet
Q: Why is this issue on the ballot? A: A petition signed by 10% of qualified voters triggered a referendum, as allowed under Georgia law.
Q: Does Molena currently add fluoride to the water? A: No. Molena Water System does not currently fluoridate its water.
Q: What does Georgia law say about fluoride? A: Georgia Code § 12-5-175 requires fluoridation unless a municipality opts out through a voter referendum. The law also limits fluoride to one part per million.
Q: What are the benefits of adding fluoride? A: Fluoride helps prevent tooth decay, especially in children and underserved populations. Fluoride is added to most commercial toothpastes for this reason. It’s endorsed by the CDC, ADA, and WHO.
Q: What are the concerns about fluoride? A: Opponents cite risks such as dental fluorosis, potential bone effects, and possible neurological impacts. These risks are generally associated with exposure levels higher than those used in public systems. Some cite concerns due to the combination of fluoride in toothpaste and drinking water.
Q: Will residents be informed before any changes? A: Absolutely!
Thank you to the City of Molena for this information.
Closing
Voters must be registered by October 6. The election will be held on Tuesday, November 4, 2025.
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