Strong foundations.Revitalized communities.Limitless opportunities.
“I’m running for City Council, District 1, because this election isn’t about the Left or the Right—it’s about the people who live here and proudly call this city home.
It’s about bringing together every neighborhood and every community in Cleveland, because we are stronger together.
Together, we can build stronger infrastructure, revitalize our neighborhoods, expand economic opportunities, and create a brighter future for District 1.”
Hiawatha Brown
Meet HiawathaLifelong Educator & Community LeaderCleveland Born & Raised
Hiawatha Brown has spent his life serving Cleveland — as a lifelong resident, educator, and community leader. His career has been defined by helping others succeed and working to strengthen the community he proudly calls home.
Cleveland Roots
Born and raised in Cleveland’s South Side, Hiawatha has a lifelong connection to the neighborhoods, families, and communities that make District 1 home.
Education Leadership
With degrees in education and leadership from UA Huntsville, Lee University, and ASU, Hiawatha has spent his career preparing students and building stronger opportunities for the next generation.
Years of Service
Nearly two decades as an educator, including 15 years serving Bradley County Public Schools, dedicated to supporting students, families, and the community.
Community Commitment
Through the Cleveland Parks & Recreation Board and involvement at Pleasant Grove Missionary Baptist Church, Hiawatha continues to serve the community he calls home.
Building a stronger Cleveland.Investing in District 1.A future built together.
Hiawatha Brown’s platform is focused on stronger neighborhoods, responsible growth, and transparent leadership. Together, we can create a Cleveland where every community has the opportunity to thrive.
Housing & Stronger Communities
- •Advocate for expanded use of Community Development Block Grant funding to rehabilitate owner-occupied homes in District 1.
- •Support stronger accountability for absentee landlords through timely code enforcement and follow-up.
- •Support transitional housing efforts while ensuring transparency, timelines, and community input.
- •Partner with the Cleveland Housing Authority to help residents access available housing resources.
THE COMMITMENT
Public investments should come with communication, accountability, and measurable progress. Residents deserve to understand how housing initiatives impact their neighborhoods.
Parks & Community Spaces
- •Advocate for equitable access to recreational facilities for District 1 residents.
- •Support dependable funding for long-term park maintenance.
- •Expand youth recreation through partnerships with schools, churches, and community organizations.
- •Ensure residents have a meaningful voice in planning future park improvements.
THE COMMITMENT
Strong parks require consistent investment, planning, and advocacy. Hiawatha will work to keep these spaces safe, welcoming, and accessible.
Neighborhood Revitalization
- •Advocate for targeted code enforcement where neighborhood needs are greatest.
- •Support a public blight-tracking dashboard so residents can monitor progress.
- •Ensure District 1 receives its fair share of neighborhood improvement funding.
- •Create a more responsive process for residents to report concerns and receive timely follow-up.
THE COMMITMENT
Revitalization requires transparency, accountability, and follow-through. Community priorities should become visible progress.
South Side Opportunity
- •Advocate for greater inclusion of South Side neighborhoods in economic development planning.
- •Partner with local leaders to identify gaps in businesses, services, and neighborhood amenities.
- •Support programs that help grow small businesses while attracting new investment.
- •Champion infrastructure improvements that improve safety, mobility, and quality of life.
THE COMMITMENT
Growth should benefit every neighborhood. District 1 deserves a strong voice in Cleveland’s future.
Transparent Leadership
- •Advocate for a public dashboard tracking projects, timelines, and spending.
- •Support community impact reporting before major budget decisions.
- •Hold regular District 1 town halls to listen, communicate, and engage residents.
- •Promote accountability so residents understand how their tax dollars are being used.
THE COMMITMENT
Leadership requires tracking progress, communicating openly, and delivering results.
District 1 - At a GlanceStrength Through CommunityHistory That Inspires
District 1 is the heart of Cleveland’s South Side — a community built on generations of hard work, strong neighborhoods, and neighbors who look out for one another. By investing in our infrastructure, supporting local communities, and protecting the character of our neighborhoods, we can build a stronger future while honoring the history that makes this district unique.
Rooted Neighborhoods
Generations of families have built their lives here, creating neighborhoods with deep roots, strong traditions, and a shared commitment to community.
Connected Communities
From parks and schools to churches and local gathering spaces, the places that bring neighbors together are the foundation of a connected and thriving community.
Smart Growth
Our neighborhoods offer a variety of housing options and reflect the needs of the people who call District 1 home. Thoughtful growth means creating opportunities while preserving our community’s character and identity.
Building for the Future
Reliable roads, safe sidewalks, improved drainage, and well-maintained public spaces are essential to supporting families, attracting investment, and preparing our community for the future.
Official District 1 Map
Source: City of Cleveland, TN — City Council District Map