Jefferson County elects first Black woman as Bessemer division assistant tax collector

Mykeshia Myles Jones has made history in Jefferson County, securing a victory that establishes her as the first Black woman to hold the position of assistant tax collector for the Bessemer division.

Following a second campaign effort since 2024, Myles Jones captured 52.76% of the vote in the primary runoff, successfully besting incumbent Ron Marshall, who finished with 47.24%.

A Historic Achievement

Reflecting on her win, Myles Jones told 205focus.com, “It means a lot. Being the first woman to grace the seat is powerful.” She emphasized her commitment to her constituents, adding, “It means a great deal to me because I’m ready to work and I’m glad the people can see my heart and my ambition. They know the people will always come first when it comes to me…I’m always here. I’m always accessible. I’m transparent. And that will never change.”

Stepping Into the Role

As the new assistant tax collector, Myles Jones is tasked with overseeing the office's daily operations, managing property tax assessments and collections, maintaining local revenue records, and providing hands-on assistance to residents navigating tax-related concerns.

A product of north Bessemer, Myles Jones is a graduate of Jess Lanier High School. Her academic background includes a degree in paralegal studies from Virginia College and business management studies from Bessemer State Technical College.

Deep Community Roots

Myles Jones brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked as a paralegal for over 15 years, a Jefferson County deputy constable for two years, and the city clerk of Brighton for one year. Beyond her public service, she is the owner of Gold Heart Management, a co-owner of the design and printing firm Dreams are Golden, and the founder of the nonprofit Nurturing Golden Hearts, which provides food and essential aid to the community.

Her dedication to service is deeply personal, rooted in a family legacy passed down from her mother and grandmother. “Coming up, that’s what we did,” she noted, describing her family’s history of feeding the community.

Looking Ahead

Her campaign was built on a foundation of increasing transparency, efficiency, and public education. “It was focused on the people because while being out in the community we found that nobody was there to assist them,” she said. “The first thing I want to do is go out and educate our people.”

Her primary goals involve streamlining office operations to ensure everything can be handled in-house. “My hope is to make it more transparent and more user friendly for the community,” she explained. “They won’t feel uneasy coming into the office. I want them to feel confident and know that we are there for the community.”

Myles Jones first challenged incumbent Ron Marshall—a longtime city council member and professional in the banking and telecommunications sectors—in 2024. After that initial race, she stayed active and engaged, stating, “I ran two years ago and I never stopped. I never stopped doing work for the people and being engaged. And I will never stop.”