I am Larry Donald Smith and I am proud to announce my candidacy for County Commissioner District 1.

My decision to run for County Commissioner was inspired by the encouragement of concerned citizens and much spiritual reflection. I see that our county has been in a holding pattern, with little development or growth for some time. I believe that collaboration and teamwork are essential to progress. Just like in sports, every player has a vital role, but true success only comes when we work together as a team. Greene County has tremendous potential, and I am ready to provide the leadership needed to help move us forward. Together, we can achieve more and build a brighter future for our community.

As a native of Greene County, I was born and raised in the Springfield community and I graduated from Eutaw High School, Class of 1976.

Upon graduating, I entered the U.S. Army and served in leadership roles across the United States, Southwest Asia, Europe, South Korea, and Bosnia. My service included participation in the Grenada, Bosnia, and Iraq conflicts. In 2001, I retired as Chief Warrant Officer Four, concluding 25 years of distinguished service.

Following my military career, I taught high school in Greene County School System and Tuscaloosa City School System, where I served as Director of the Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (JROTC), and Military Science Instructor. During my tenure at Tuscaloosa City Schools, I served as team leader for the Principal Leadership Team, Graduation Ceremonies Coordinator, and school system validation certification coordinator. After 21 years as a high school educator, I retired in 2022.

My wife and I are owners of L.L. Smith Inc. and proudly support locally owned businesses.

I hold a Master’s Degree in Business Administration, a Bachelor of Science in Business Science, and an Associate Degree in Liberal Arts. Additionally, I possess numerous certifications in leadership, cyber security, ethics training, procurement, accreditation standards, and contracting.

As a member of the New Generation Community Outreach Center, I actively support the church’s mission through service on the Board, the Men’s Ministry, and the Development Committee. My community support also includes being a member of the Alabama Retired Teachers Association and President of the West Alabama Corvette Club.

My spouse, Lila Chambers-Smith, is also a proud native of Greene County. We have a large and loving family—eight children, twenty-one grandchildren, and four great-grandchildren. After spending 45 years away, we chose to return to Greene County, the place we have always considered our true home. Our decision was driven by a deep sense of belonging and a desire to give back to the community that shaped us.

I humbly ask for your support throughout my campaign and for your vote on May 19, 2026, to elect me as your candidate for County Commissioner, District # 1.