Following his military career, Mr. Free held senior leadership roles with the U.S. Department of Commerce and the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), where he served as Alabama’s State Director and later as Deputy Regional Administrator for the Southeast region.

Throughout his career, Mr. Free has emphasized accountability, measurable performance, and “leading from the front.” His priorities for Anniston include expanding access to quality affordable housing, attracting young professionals, and pursuing federal funding opportunities that drive local economic growth.

A strong believer in community and family, Mr. Free has described his return to Anniston as an opportunity to give back to the city that raised him—bringing his global experience home to strengthen and serve his community.