Following the dismissal of the election contest in Oakley vs. Cooner today, former Mayor Oakley released the following public statement:
“This afternoon after a day and a half of testimony, I made the decision along with my wife and legal counsel to withdraw our election contest in Bibb County Circuit Court.
Despite testimony from multiple witnesses admitting that they lived in homes outside of the city limits of the City of Centreville, the judge ruled that a voter’s residency is a mental state and not based on their physical location.
Five witnesses admitted that on election day, August 25, 2025 they resided in homes that were located outside of the city limits of the City of Centreville, the judge ruled that a voter’s residency is a mental state and not based on their physical location. Four of the witnesses testified that their homes were located in the city of Woodstock, Alabama.
Despite this testimony regarding their physical location, the Judge ruled that all voters were to be considered residents of the City of Centreville due to their “intent to be residents.”
I am obviously disappointed by this decision by the judge. After this case drug out over six months, I have no desire to continue to drag it out in appellate court and create further harm and division to the citizens of Centreville.
Since 1992 I have worked tirelessly throughout this county, this State, and this Country to promote and advocate for the best interests of this city and county that I love. I had my day in court, and while I believe that the judge ruled incorrectly, it is time for myself and this city to move on.
As always, I will continue to be active in making our community a better place to live, worship and raise families.”
