HOOVER — Jefferson County Commissioner and retired Alabama Supreme Court Judge Mike Bolin told 1819 News that his father was his hero. Bolin fondly recalled his father pointing out the type of men he wanted his son to look up to and aspire to be, telling him to "be a man's man," one of honor and integrity. Bolin said that's exactly the kind of man that Hoover Police Chief Nick Derzis is, "a man's man."
This is why he was among the dozens of community leaders who came out to support Derzis when he launched his campaign for mayor on Monday.
Bolin joined past and present leaders and a couple of hundred supporters to listen as Derzis laid out his plan for moving the city forward.
"Hoover needs leadership that innovates, not stagnates. Leadership that listens, not manipulates. Leadership that plans, not reacts," Derzis said.
At first blush, the empty storefront that Derzis stood in front of seemed an odd choice to launch a campaign full of hope and possibility, but he explained, "And we are standing here today … in a shopping center full of empty storefronts … to make a point. This is what tired looks like. This is what a lack of vision looks like. And the worst part? There is no plan to fix it and no vision for what Hoover can … and should … be."
In that context, the excitement, the signage and the large American flag gave way to a renewed sense of potential for Hoover.
Derzis said, "Hoover is a great city, but we need strong, accountable leadership to ensure it remains that way. Leadership that prioritizes safety. Leadership that manages our finances wisely. Leadership that restores trust in City Government. I've spent my career making tough decisions, managing the city's largest budget and ensuring that my team had the resources needed to keep you safe. Now, I'm ready to take that same commitment to the Mayor's Office."
Before closing out his campaign event, recognizing his wife and family, Derzis said, "This campaign isn't just about me... it's about us. The residents. The families. The business owners. The teachers. The first responders. Everyone who calls Hoover home. We will build something strong, something real and lasting...and it starts today."
Apryl Marie Fogel is a Birmingham resident who frequently appears on, and guest hosts radio programs around the state. She can be reached at [email protected] or on X and Facebook at @aprylmarie.
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