Andalusia Star News

Andalusia Police Chief Paul Hudson is celebrating his 25th year with the City Of Andalusia.

Hudson joined the city in 1994, when then-chief Jerry Williamson hired him.

In 1997, he was promoted to patrol sergeant and then K9 sergeant the following year.

Williamson promoted Hudson to lieutenant in 1999.

In 2003, he became a part of the 22nd Judicial Circuit Drug Task Force.

Hudson spent nine years on the DTF before he was transferred back to patrol before Mayor Earl Johnson promoted him to chief in 2013.

Hudson earned his bachelor’s degree in criminal justice from Troy University in 2011, and is a graduate of FBI NA Class 223.

Andalusia Star News

WSFA 12 News

South Alabama city names its first communications director

By Bryan Henry

ANDALUSIA, Ala. (WSFA) - Andalusia mayor Earl Johnson introduced the city’s first communications director Tuesday.

Michele Gerlach is leaving the newspaper industry and will begin her new job with the city of Andalusia July 1.

Gerlach spent 13 years as the publisher and editor of the Andalusia Star-News. In her new role, Gerlach will handle internal and external communications such as social media, managing the city’s website and grant writing.

Gerlach has served as president of the Andalusia Rotary Club and boards of the Andalusia Ballet, the LBW Community College Foundation, the Andalusia High School Scholarship Foundation and the Chamber of Commerce.

Gerlach is also the former president and chairman of the Alabama Press Association and a graduate of Leadership Alabama.

Gerlach will also serve as the communications director for the City Utilities Board.

WSFA 12 News