Mobile City Council confirms Shonda Smith as public works director and names Randy Jackson police chief

Shonda Smith, the city’s parks and recreation director who was promoted earlier this year to deputy executive director of public works, was confirmed Sept. 17 by the Mobile City Council as executive director of public works. The council praised Smith’s work transforming parks operations and her vision for public works before approving the appointment by voice vote.

Mayor Stimpson introduced Smith and asked the council to approve her promotion, saying she had ‘‘a vision’’ and had ‘‘done a magnificent job’’ leading Parks and Recreation and later taking responsibility in public works. Multiple council members spoke in support, noting her responsiveness and experience with parks and public services. Smith thanked the council when recognized.

The council also confirmed William Randy Jackson as chief of police. Jackson, who has served in the Mobile Police Department for 29 years and had been interim chief, was introduced by the mayor and received broad endorsement from council members. Council members said Jackson has been responsive to constituent concerns, maintains a strong relationship with command staff, and is respected department-wide; the appointment passed by voice vote.

Both confirmations followed the council’s procedural motions to consider and vote on appointments. The city did not record roll-call vote tallies in the meeting transcript; the minutes show the motions were moved, seconded and approved by voice vote. The council and mayor offered congratulations and urged continued cooperation between the administration, public works, police and the community.

The appointments take effect immediately per municipal practice; no implementation dates or employment contract details were discussed on the record.