Raevan Howard Makes History As First Black Woman Elected Tuscaloosa City Council President

TUSCALOOSA, AL — The Tuscaloosa City Council on Tuesday unanimously elected District 2 Councilor Raevan Howard as president pro tempore, making her the first Black woman to serve as president of the council.

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Howard, who is serving her third term representing District 2, succeeds longtime Council President Kip Tyner, who died Sept. 18 at age 70.

As Patch previously reported, Tyner served seven consecutive terms on the council and two terms as its president.

"It's an honor to have the unanimous support of my colleagues to serve as Council President," Howard said in a statement. "I look forward to working with the community, business owners and organizations to continue the legacy of Council President Kip Tyner and his advocacy for all of Tuscaloosa."

A Tuscaloosa native, Howard graduated from Central High School and the University of Alabama.

Her father, Bobby Howard, also served on the Tuscaloosa City Council.

Howard currently chairs the council's Public Safety Committee and serves as vice chair of the Community Development Committee.

She also serves on the Council's Finance Committee and Planning and Zoning Commission, along with being an alternate on the Administration and Policy Committee.

The city's current Planning and Zoning Commission roster lists Howard among its members.

Howard's election comes as the city prepares to fill Tyner's vacant District 5 seat.

As Patch previously reported, the council plans to formally call for the special election on Oct. 6.

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