Kent Lawrence outpaces field to win Decatur mayoral race

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August 26, 2025

DECATUR — With Mayor Tab Bowling not seeking reelection, Kent Lawrence outraced a four-candidate field Tuesday to become Decatur’s next mayor.

Bowling announced in 2023 that he wouldn’t seek reelection this year, opening the door to a wide-open race.

However, Lawrence finished atop the field with 6,201 votes (54.16%) over City Councilman Billy Jackson’s 4,898 votes (42.78%).

William “Butch” Matthews was third with 217 votes (1.9%) and Suzie Wiley had 134 votes (1.17%). The results, which include absentee votes, are unofficial.

The results will be canvassed by the Decatur City Council at noon Sept. 2 during a Special Called Council Meeting at Decatur City Hall.

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