Mayor Nelson was elected to the first city council in 1978 as a council member. He served 18 years as a council member before being elected as Mayor in 1996. Mayor Nelson is entering his 20 th year as Mayor. Mayor Nelson worked at Barry Steam Plant, Alabama Power Company for 37 years prior to retiring in 2010. Mayor Nelson is a graduate from the University of South Alabama in 1972 and a graduate from Satsuma High School. Mayor Nelson married Deborah Stewart, Satsuma in 1972 and raised their daughter Stephanie and son Gene in Creola. Mayor Nelson is a Charter Member at Creola First Baptist where he is currently serving as a Trustee. Mayor Nelson served in the United States Marine Corp Reserve as a full Colonel upon retiring in 2005. Mayor Nelson was awarded the “Legion of Merit” medal for service to country and Marine Corp by the “President of the United States” upon his retirement. Mayor Nelson served on active duty during Operation Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom.

The City of Creola is experiencing unprecedented growth of new businesses and new homes. Mayor Nelson contributes that largely due to the “teamwork” between the mayor and council. Creola is growing in a planned manner while maintaining its Urban – Rural atmosphere.