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About me

Empowering Communities & Guiding Mississippi

From PTO President to Community Advocate

I moved to Long Beach nine years ago and quickly realized that this is the kind of community where showing up matters. What began as involvement in my children’s school grew into a deeper commitment to understanding how our city works, how decisions are made, and how those decisions impact everyday residents.

I’m a mom of two, a small business owner, and someone who believes strong communities are built through participation, transparency, and consistency. I spend a lot of my time attending city meetings, reviewing agendas and budgets, talking with neighbors and business owners, and helping break down local issues in a way that is clear and accessible.

My early leadership came through public education. I have served as PTO President and was honored as the 2023–2024 Long Beach School District Parent of the Year. Those experiences showed me how much impact engaged parents and residents can have when they work together. While education remains important to me, my advocacy today extends across responsible growth, public safety, economic development, and open local government.

Professionally, I own The Long Pour, an event staffing and beverage service operating across the Mississippi Gulf Coast. Running a small business has shaped my approach to civic work, emphasizing practical solutions, accountability, and long-term planning.

In 2025, I ran for Alderman in Ward 3 because I believed our city deserved thoughtful discussion and clear communication around major decisions. Although I didn’t win, the experience reinforced that community leadership doesn’t start or end with a title. I remain committed to staying engaged and contributing where I can.


What I’m Working On Now

Right now, my focus is on staying actively involved in the issues that shape Long Beach’s future. That includes closely following city planning and development decisions, advocating for responsible growth that respects existing neighborhoods, and supporting policies that strengthen public safety and infrastructure.

I’m also working to improve communication between residents and local government by sharing information, encouraging civic participation, and helping more people feel comfortable attending meetings and asking questions.

Alongside this work, I continue to support local businesses and community organizations, believing that a strong local economy and engaged citizenry go hand in hand.

Mission Statement

Working to build a more informed, engaged, and accountable Long Beach.

My mission is to strengthen the Long Beach community by promoting transparency, responsible growth, and informed civic engagement. I believe local decisions should reflect the needs and values of the people who live here, and that progress is strongest when it is thoughtful, inclusive, and grounded in real community input.

An important part of my work is helping residents easily understand what is happening within local government. By breaking down complex issues, sharing clear information, and encouraging participation, my goal is to help more people feel confident engaging in the civic process and connected to the decisions shaping our city.

Vision Statement

I envision a Long Beach where residents feel informed, heard, and confident engaging in local government. A community where information is accessible, dialogue is encouraged, and civic participation is welcomed rather than intimidating.

In this vision, growth is thoughtful and transparent, local voices matter, and decisions are made with accountability, long-term impact, and quality of life at the forefront. Long Beach thrives when its people are engaged, connected, and empowered.

Guiding Our Future

Join in with #ErikaLongMS

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