On Sept. 1, Charletha Powell braced herself as a delivery truck careened toward her. The day after her birthday, she was leaving the John Sunday Plaza dedication downtown and sitting at a stoplight — first in line. She watched as a dually pickup truck sideswiped the delivery truck and sent it hurtling her way — the crash caused a head-on collision that totaled her car.
“It seemed like it was in slow motion,” said Powell, “I was on the hands-free phone with my daughter and I watched it play out right in front of me. I’m beat up but I’m so thankful no one was seriously injured. Right now, I’m laser focused on reengaging with voters and relaunching my campaign — there’s a lot of work to do in my district.”
A candidate for City Council District 2, Powell had been placing signs and canvassing District 2 neighborhoods getting to know the citizens. After the accident, she was down for about three weeks.
“I’ve lost a little time,” said Powell, “but I truly believe there is a reason behind everything that happens. I would like to thank the many people who have called and sent beautiful cards and notes. And now I’m back to full strength and out there greeting my District 2 neighbors.”
Connie Bookman, founder and CEO at Pathways for Change and a Powell supporter, said Powell’s determination and grit is part of who she is and why she would make an effective councilperson.
“Char has always been tough and smart, and her comeback after this accident shows her resilience and drive,” said Bookman. “I love her spirit and I know she would bring this passion and leadership to the council.”
Powell is no stranger to public service. She serves on the City of Pensacola Planning Board, FloridaWest Economic Development Alliance board of directors, Ciclovia board and America’s First Settlement Trail board of directors. She recently served on the Gallery Night Board, Chappie James Museum Board, Mass Transit Authority Council and the Citizen’s Advisory Council to the Transportation Planning Organization.
Keith Wilkins, former Pensacola City Administrator, said Powell’s service and dedication to Pensacola make her an ideal candidate.
“Char is the kind of person you want serving on your board or committee,” said Wilkins. “She works hard and just gets things done. She’s a collaborator and consensus builder — she can listen to an issue, do her research, and work with others to achieve a goal. That’s just great leadership.”
More information on Char Powell’s campaign focus can be found here.
