David Goins facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
David Goins
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| Mayor of Alton, Illinois | |
| Assumed office May 12, 2021 |
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| Preceded by | Brant Walker |
| Personal details | |
| Born | July 26, 1960 |
| Spouse | Sheila Goins |
| Children | 3 |
| Education | B.A. College of the Ozarks |
David Goins, born on July 26, 1960, is an American politician. In 2021, he made history. He was elected as the first African American mayor of Alton, Illinois.
About David Goins
David Goins was born on July 26, 1960. His parents were Mark and Opal Goins. Sadly, he lost his mother in 1967 and his father in 1971. After that, his grandparents raised him.
In 1978, he finished high school at Alton High School. He then went to the College of the Ozarks. He graduated in 1983 with a degree in English. He even got a full scholarship to play basketball!
After college, David Goins worked to help his community. He was a detention officer. He also worked as a correctional officer for Madison County. In 1986, he joined the Alton Police Department. He became a sergeant in 1999. He retired from the police force in 2010.
Becoming Mayor
In 2017, David Goins was elected to the Alton school board. This was his first step into local government.
In 2021, he decided to run for mayor of Alton. He had important goals for the city. He wanted to bring in new businesses. He also aimed to create more jobs. Revitalizing the downtown area was another key goal. He also supported COVID-19 vaccinations. Plus, he wanted to encourage recent college graduates to return to Alton. Local unions supported his campaign.
On April 6, 2021, David Goins won the election. He beat the current mayor, Brant Walker. This was a big moment for Alton. He became the first African-American mayor since the city started in 1818. He officially took office on May 12, 2021.
When he became mayor, Alton faced some challenges. Many businesses had closed due to Covid. There was also a budget problem. Despite these challenges, Mayor Goins began his work. In July 2021, the Governor of Illinois, J. B. Pritzker, appointed him to a special board. This board helps manage the Central Port District.
Personal Life
David Goins married Sheila Goins in 1985. They have three children together. Since 2001, he has also served as a pastor. He leads the Morning Star Missionary Baptist Church in Alton. In 2018, he faced a health challenge.
See also
