Bo Hicks Runs for Tuscaloosa District 5 Seat
The local brewery owner joins a three-way race to replace the late Councilman Kip Tyner.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Beer
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Bo Hicks, owner of Druid City Brewing Co., has officially announced his candidacy for the Tuscaloosa District 5 City Council seat. He is joining a field of candidates that includes Al Sommerville and Erica Grant.
Why it matters
The seat became vacant following the death of longtime Councilman Kip Tyner, who had served since 1997. Hicks stated that his campaign will prioritize infrastructure improvements and support for small local businesses.
Candidates must complete the qualifying process between October 13 and October 27, 2026. Absentee voting for the December 8 special election begins on November 3, 2026.
The players
Bo Hicks
He is the owner of Druid City Brewing Co. and a declared candidate for the District 5 council seat.
Kip Tyner
He served on the Tuscaloosa City Council from 1997 until his death in September 2026.
Al Sommerville
He is a candidate seeking election to the vacant District 5 seat.
Erica Grant
She is a candidate seeking election to the vacant District 5 seat.
The details
The special election follows the passing of Kip Tyner, who died on September 18, 2026, at the age of 70. Candidates seeking to fill the vacancy must meet the city's specific qualifying requirements before the deadline at 5 p.m. on October 27.
Timeline
Kip Tyner was first elected to the city council in 1997.
Kip Tyner died at age 70 on September 18, 2026.
The candidate qualifying period began on October 13, 2026.
The candidate qualifying period closes at 5 p.m. on October 27, 2026.
The special election for the District 5 seat is December 8, 2026.
Culture Shift
The transition in District 5 leadership follows the passing of Kip Tyner, who represented the community for nearly three decades. This election represents a significant shift as the district moves from a long-tenured representative to a new generation of local leadership.
Residents in District 5 will see changes to their local representation and will have the opportunity to cast ballots starting in early November. The outcome of this election will directly determine the leadership priorities for local infrastructure and business support programs.
The takeaway
The upcoming special election offers District 5 residents a chance to shape the future direction of city infrastructure and business policy. Voters are encouraged to check their registration status before the November absentee voting period begins.
What happens next
Candidates must finish the qualifying process by October 27, 2026. Absentee voting is set to begin on November 3, 2026, ahead of the special election scheduled for December 8, 2026.
Further reading
For more information on local establishments and community figures, visit the Tuscaloosa Beer section.
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Do you believe local business owners are better suited for city council than other candidates?
