Longtime community volunteer and former library board chair Jane Anderton has officially announced her candidacy for mayor of Clay, Alabama.

Anderton, a resident of the city since 2005, is running on a platform focused on transparency in local government, increased citizen involvement, and restoring public boards that were previously dissolved. Her campaign centers on three core commitments: enhancing communication between residents and city officials, fostering opportunities for community engagement, and restoring decision-making power to the public.

Anderton has been an active figure in the Clay community for nearly two decades, known for her civic involvement, environmental advocacy, and educational outreach. She served as chairperson of the Clay Library Board for nearly 10 years, from 2014 until the board was dissolved by the city council in 2024. During her tenure, she publicly raised concerns about the city’s decision-making process and transparency, particularly in connection with the council’s vote to withdraw from the Alabama Public Library Service.

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In addition to her government-related roles, Anderton is widely recognized for starting a community seed swap and garden project at the Clay Public Library. She is also the founder of the Caretakers of Cosby Lake and has participated in multiple local beautification and conservation efforts.

A retired home educator and grandmother of two, Anderton also spent many years volunteering in area schools and faith-based programs. Her past efforts include tutoring early readers and mentoring students through Discovery Clubs and Vacation Bible School programs.

If elected, Anderton says she would reinstate pre-council meetings open to the public, establish regular office hours for residents, and work to reestablish citizen advisory boards such as the Library Board and committees overseeing community assets like Cosby Lake.

Her campaign tagline, “A New Season in Clay,” reflects her vision for more responsive city leadership that encourages public engagement and collaborative decision-making.

Anderton lives in Clay with her husband, Chris, a retired UPS employee. Both currently work at Cumberland Lake Golf Course and Lodge and are longtime members of Refuge Church.

To learn more about Anderton or to support her campaign, visit her official campaign Facebook page.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at sherri@yellowhammernews.com.

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