MADISON — Two political newcomers are heading to a runoff in Madison’s District 6 City Council race. On Aug. 26, incumbent Councilmember Karen Denzine received just 302 votes, setting up a head-to-head contest between Erica White and Scott Harbour.
White was the top vote-getter, earning 45% of the vote with 700 ballots cast in her favor. Harbour followed with 512 votes. The two will meet again in a run-off election Sept. 23.
A former Army electrical engineer, White moved to North Alabama in 2010 after graduating from Tuskegee University. She spent 11 years in federal service before becoming an entrepreneur and full-time mom.
A Madison resident since 2010 and District 6 resident since 2016, White has also volunteered as a court-appointed juvenile advocate, hospice volunteer, adult education tutor, and church usher.
Harbour has lived in Madison for nearly 20 years with his wife and two sons, both Bob Jones High School graduates. He serves on the Madison City Zoning Board of Adjustment and as Council Chair at Grace United Methodist Church.
His past service includes leading the Hogan Family YMCA Board and volunteering with youth sports, scouting, and local nonprofits. Professionally, Harbour is vice president of finance at Chapman Sisson Architects.
Low voter turnout heading into the runoff
Only about 15% of registered voters in District 6 cast ballots in last month’s municipal election. Turnout is a concern for both candidates, but they say they are encouraged by the support they’ve received.
White said she was energized by her strong showing in the first round.
“Seeing so many voters come out and show their support really shows me my message has resonated,” she said. “With 45 percent of the vote, we were only 67 votes short of an outright victory. I’m grateful to see the community support and I’m looking forward to the runoff.”
Harbour said the runoff offers voters a clear choice.
“I am excited to be in the runoff,” he said. “As I walk and talk to more and more people, what I’m sharing seems to resonate. This is a great opportunity for District 6.”
What do you see as the biggest challenge facing Madison?
White: “The biggest challenge is balancing our growth. Roads and infrastructure are still a top priority, and we need to stay ahead instead of falling behind. Growth also impacts our schools, and we have to ensure they remain strong for the next generation. My engineering background has trained me to use data to make decisions, and my experience as a business owner and community volunteer gives me the perspective to help Madison manage growth wisely.”
Harbour: “The biggest challenge isn’t just traffic and schools, it’s resources. Madison collects significantly less sales tax per resident than Huntsville, which limits what we can invest in. My focus will be on expanding retail and commercial opportunities so we can keep more of those dollars here, funding schools, roads, parks, and public safety without raising taxes.”
Why are you the best candidate for District 6?
White: “I live here, I raise my children here, and I share the same concerns as my neighbors. I’ve knocked on every door in District 6 and connected with residents face-to-face. They want someone they can trust to listen, to be responsive, and to represent their needs and that’s what I’ll do.”
Harbour: “I bring more than 25 years of financial leadership and executive experience, along with deep community involvement across schools, churches, youth programs, and civic organizations. That combination of professional and community service gives me the tools to help Madison grow responsibly and sustainably.”
What’s your favorite thing about Madison?
White: “The people. This community is warm, welcoming, and invested in the city’s future. I love how much residents care about seeing Madison thrive.”
Harbour: “The community. When we moved here, that’s what we were looking for, and Madison delivered: Safe neighborhoods, strong schools, and a reputation for excellence that’s recognized even by universities across the country.”
Voters head to the polls to cast their ballots for White or Harbour in the District 6 runoff Sept. 23.
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