Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

LaFayette – With a deep-rooted interest in the city’s government and a strong commitment to its future, Nell Finley is determined to make a difference.

Finley has always been interested in the workings of the city government. Her dedication to the community and its well-being has been evident through her continuous efforts to run for office. This marks the third attempt, and “third time’s a charm,” Finley says as she prepares to take the leap once again.

She has over 30 years of experience managing contracts and programs with budgets over $500,000 for nonprofit organizations that have contracts with state agencies, including the Department of Human Resources, Housing and Urban Development, the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs and the Alabama Rural Coalition for the Homeless.

Currently, Finley works at the Child Care Resource Center/Family Resource Center in Opelika, serving as the manager of the subsidized childcare program. Before this role, she served as the resource and referral manager for the Family Resource Center side of the agency, acting as the liaison responsible for connecting the agency with churches, businesses and the cities of Opelika and Auburn to provide resources to clients.

Finley’s campaign is grounded in her dedication to the community and her vision for shaping the city’s future. She values community participation and aims to introduce positive changes within the city council.

Her platform highlights critical issues for residents, including improving public services, enhancing safety and promoting sustainable growth.

A key goal for Finley is fostering a strong partnership between the mayor and the council, encouraging collaboration across districts to help expand the city. She emphasizes the importance of a unified approach to exploring grant opportunities, attracting new businesses and generating employment opportunities.

Finley is particularly focused on securing workforce training grants and funding for small business development, aiming to provide more opportunities for young people and working families.

Finley highlighted the peace, quiet, and strong sense of community as reasons she loves the city. There are, however, several areas she would like to see improved, including better housing, more dining options, enhanced recreational opportunities for both youth and senior citizens and improved accessibility to the downtown area.

Finley recommends putting up advertisement boards for travelers on the bypass and those coming from Highway 431 to inform them about what downtown businesses offer, as well as promoting the Joe Louis Statue at the Chambers County Courthouse.

Working with Main Street on revitalization efforts for downtown LaFayette is a top priority for her to ensure the city’s future remains inviting, vibrant and thriving.

When not working or campaigning, Finley enjoys spending time with family, attending church functions and watching Game Show Network programs such as “Family Feud” and “America Says.”