Lewis eyes City Council seat to fulfill a legacy

West End business owner Marlon Lewis has announced his candidacy for District 2 in this year’s election for the New Iberia City Council.

Lewis, 45, graduated from New Iberia Senior High School in 1990 and attended vocational training afterward. He worked as a barber at Cliff’s Impressive Cuts under the late Clifton “Cliff” Williams, who Lewis called a mentor.

Afterwards, he started Marlo’s Barber Shop in 1996 and is celebrating the 20-year anniversary of the business. He represents District 96 of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee.

Lewis has been chairman of the West End Business Association since 2009 and also serves on the West End Council of Neighborhood Associations.

“I’ve been involved with the community for at least 10 years,” Lewis said. “I’ve seen it go from vibrant to not-so-vibrant. I want to make sure the West End doesn’t get forgotten about and remains relevant.”

Lewis said he wants to tackle economic revitalization, as well as blighted properties by increasing home ownership in the area.

“I also want revitalization in West End Park and to maintain all of the parks in the city,” he said.

Lewis is the nephew of current District 2 City Councilwoman Peggy Gerac and the grandson of Emory “Wing” Lewis, who served in the same district from 1980 to 1989. Lewis said he wants to “fulfill his father’s legacy” as he tries to follow in his aunt’s footsteps.