Photo and Words by Al Blanton

Jim Borden recently took over as District 3 Commissioner for Walker County. A Cordova native, Jim will be serving a large area in south Walker County, which includes the communities of Cordova, Parrish, Providence, Goodsprings, and Tutwiler, among others. 

78: Jim, tell us a little bit about your background. 

JB: I was born and raised in the Cordova area of Walker County, and I graduated from Cordova High School in 1980. I worked with the Birmingham City Fire and Rescue for 29 years, and I am recently retired. Also, for the past 27 years, I worked part-time with a local excavating business. 

78: What made you want to run for District 3 Commissioner? 

JB: I have always had an interest in County government. With retirement in my future it was a good opportunity to become involved and serve the citizens of Walker County. I wanted to be a full-time commissioner so I could work with the county employees, putting in time and effort to improving District 3.

78: What are the values that will help you to be successful in this office? 

JB: I am a Christian with strong family values that I try to uphold daily. I believe hard work, determination, and honesty is important with everything we do.

78: Can you introduce us to your family? 

JB: I have been married to Darlene Johnston Borden for 34 years. We have two children, Kaela and Brent, and future daughter-in-law, Courtney Albritton.

78: What are some of your goals for District 3? 

JB: District 3 is in dire need of new equipment. These guys are not able to perform their jobs with what we have at the shop. Also, we have many roads that have not been worked on in months, some in years. I would like to get ditches cleaned out and overgrowth taken care of as soon as possible.

78: You’ve only been in office for a few weeks. What’s it like working with your fellow commissioners and what are your initial impressions of the job?

JB: I believe we all have the same common goal for the growth of Walker County. The Commissioners have kindly given me advice and offered assistance if needed.

My initial impressions is about what I expected – District 3 is in bad shape. It is going to be a challenge to do all that needs done but with time and resources we can make much needed improvements. 

78: Many times, Walker County gets a bad rap. What are the things you like most about living in Walker County? 

JB: There are many things I like about Walker County but mostly the small town feel, where you can still know your neighbor. I enjoy going into local restaurants and seeing people I know. I enjoy traveling but Walker County will always be my home. 78