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 was born on July 26, 1960. He is an American politician. In 2021, he made history by becoming the first African American mayor of Alton, Illinois.
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Early Life and Education
David Goins was born in Alton, Illinois. 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.
He graduated from Alton High School in 1978. In 1983, he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in English. He received this degree from the College of the Ozarks. He attended college on a full basketball scholarship.
Career Before Politics
After college, David Goins worked in law enforcement. He was a detention officer. He also served as a correctional officer. These roles were at the Madison County Department of Court and Probation Services.
In 1986, he joined the Alton Police Department. He worked his way up to sergeant by 1999. He retired from the police force in 2010. Later, in 2017, he was elected to the Alton school board. This was his first step into public service.
Becoming Mayor of Alton
In 2021, David Goins decided to run for mayor of Alton. He had several important goals for the city. He wanted to bring in new businesses. He also aimed to create more jobs for people.
Another key goal was to make downtown Alton better. He also supported getting people vaccinated for COVID-19. He encouraged recent college graduates to return to Alton. Local unions supported his campaign.
On April 6, 2021, David Goins won the election. He defeated the mayor who had served two terms, Brant Walker. Goins received 2,021 votes, while Walker received 1,625 votes. This victory was historic for Alton. David Goins became the first African American mayor since the city was founded in 1818. He officially took office on May 12, 2021.
Challenges as Mayor
When Mayor Goins took office, Alton faced some challenges. The unemployment rate was 8.5%. Over 200 businesses had closed or struggled due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The city also had a budget problem. This was partly because public employees' pensions were not fully funded.
In July 2021, Illinois Governor J. B. Pritzker appointed Mayor Goins to the Central Port District Board. This board helps manage the port area.
Family 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.
See also
