Anniston, AL – The City of Anniston announced it is reviewing a discrepancy involving voter assignment records and the official ward map in the area where Ward 2 Councilwoman Erica Tolson resides.
According to a statement released by the City, the issue came to light during a recent review connected to a house fire at a residence located near Tolson’s home. During that process, questions were raised regarding the ward assignment for portions of the surrounding area.
The City stated that its initial review indicates the ward boundary in that area does not appear to have changed since Anniston’s 2012 reapportionment process and was not altered during the City’s 2024 reapportionment process. However, officials said certain homes in the area — including homes previously reflected in voter assignment records as Ward 2 — appear on the City’s official ward map as being located in Ward 1.
City officials said Tolson, along with others in the area, appears to have voted in Ward 2 based on the voter assignment records that were in place at the time.
The City emphasized that, based on the information currently available, there is no indication that Tolson did anything wrong. Officials also stated there is currently no indication of malicious intent or wrongdoing by any voter, candidate, election worker, City employee, public official, or any other party involved.
Following a review of the matter and guidance sought by the City Clerk from the Alabama League of Municipalities, the City stated that Tolson remains the Ward 2 council representative while the review continues.
Officials said the City is seeking additional legal guidance to determine how to move forward in a fair, transparent, and lawful manner. The City also plans to work with election officials to review the ward map, voter assignment records, and any related discrepancies to ensure residents are accurately assigned according to official ward boundaries.
The City stated its goal is to protect the integrity of the process while ensuring the issue is properly identified and addressed. Officials added that additional information will be released as appropriate as the review continues.
