
Q&A With Mayor Kent Lawrence
What inspired you to run for mayor, and what does serving the people of Decatur mean to you personally?
Decatur is home. I was born here, raised a family here, and built a business here that supported this community for nearly thirty years. Running for mayor came through a calling by God and the desire to see Decatur live up to its full potential. Serving the people of this city means listening, earning trust, and doing the work required to move Decatur forward thoughtfully and responsibly.
How has your time living and working in Decatur shaped your vision for the city?
Living and working here has taught me the value of community, consistency, and follow-through. I understand Decatur’s strengths and where we have room to grow. Our vision is simple: ensuring public safety, building trust in the city government, and promoting smart growth. It is shaped by my decades of experience observing what works, what does not, and what happens when people love one another and work together with a shared purpose.
What do you think makes Decatur special?
Our people. Decatur has a strong sense of community. We care about our neighbors, support local causes, and show up when it matters. That spirit is the foundation of everything we do.
What are your top priorities for Decatur in 2026?
Our administration’s priorities align with the vision statement. Public safety, trust in city government, and smart growth remain our focus. That includes continued investment in police and fire, progress on Parks and Recreation improvements, advancing the South Brook development, and moving forward with riverfront development. These projects are about quality of life, economic growth, and building a city that residents can take pride in.
What role do you see citizens and local organizations playing in your administration’s success?
A major one. The city cannot succeed alone. Progress happens when citizens, nonprofits, faith groups, businesses, and city leadership work together. We are better together, and solutions come when people choose to be part of them.
What makes Decatur feel like home to you?
It simply is home. Even as Decatur grows, it still has a small-town feel, especially in our parks and neighborhoods. It is familiar, welcoming, and grounded in relationships.
What hobbies or activities do you enjoy when you’re not working?
I have enjoyed many things over the years. I grew up on the river, spent years around horses, and still enjoy being outdoors. Right now, my focus is on the work ahead and staying open to whatever comes next.
What is one thing about you that people might be surprised to learn?
Many people are surprised to learn that I once worked at McDonald’s and cooked the first Egg McMuffin and Quarter Pounder served in Decatur. That experience shaped my belief in quality, attention to detail, and in seeing things from the customer’s perspective.
What excites you the most about the future of Decatur?
The mindset of our citizens. There is a renewed sense of optimism and belief that positive change is coming. Bringing pride back to the city and telling our story, both to ourselves and others, is powerful. I see that pride growing every day.
What message do you want to send to Decatur residents as you begin your term as mayor?
Thank you for believing in Decatur. My door will remain open, and my focus will remain on unity, progress, and results. Together, we can honor our history and build a stronger future.
Finish this statement: Decatur is positively ________________
Decatur is positively home. It is where people belong, where neighbors still matter, and where pride starts at the front porch.
Decatur is positively united, because progress does not happen alone. It happens when we listen, work side by side, and choose collaboration over division. We are, and always will be, Better Together.
And Decatur is positively rising. With clear vision, renewed confidence, and a city moving in the same direction, our future is strong, purposeful, and within reach.
Kent Lawrence
Kent Lawrence is a lifelong Decatur resident with extensive business leadership and community service experience. Known for his successful tenure at TVW Electrical Supply and active roles in local organizations like the Kiwanis Club and Chamber of Commerce, Kent was elected Mayor of Decatur in August of 2025. He aims to enhance Decatur’s future through job growth, improved infrastructure, and increased public safety.
Kent is married to his wife, Mamie. Together, they have two sons and two grandchildren.