On Oct. 14, the City Council for the City of Pell City recognized outgoing Municipal Judge Brandi Hufford for her “significant contributions to the City and her service and dedication to the community.”
Hufford was appointed to the position of Municipal Judge following the retirement of Judge Van Davis in 2018. The Council noted her appointment as “historic” in a proclamation read by Mayor Bill Pruitt during the Council Meeting, as Hufford was the first woman to serve as a municipal court judge in St. Clair County.
Judge Brandi Hufford and son, Sloan, with Mayor Bill Pruitt during the City Council meeting October 14.
“I’m aware of what you did in allowing me to serve,” Judge Hufford told the Council. “Judge Van Davis was a mentor of mine, and it meant a lot for me to come in after him. I’m proud of you all, and I’m proud of this City.”
Joined by her husband, Del Hufford, and son, Sloan, Judge Hufford was recognized by the Council for her wisdom, compassion, and legal expertise in her service to the City. The Council also celebrated the continuance of her leadership as she prepares for her upcoming role.
Hufford ran an uncontested race for St. Clair County District Judge, Place 1 in 2024. The day after she was recognized by the Council, in a ceremony attended by hundreds at the St. Clair County Courthouse in Pell City, she was sworn in by Circuit Judge Phil Seay to her new position.
She is also the first woman to serve as an elected judge for St. Clair County.
“That distinction is less about me and more about you,” she told the audience during her swearing in ceremony. “I would not be here without each of you.”
Hufford replaces District Judge Alan Furr, who retired from the position after 13 years of service. Furr was honored during the ceremony with the presentation of a new portrait that will hang in the St. Clair County Courthouse.