Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in North Alabama
An election fashion faux pas
The Watkins campaign is under fire after a source says the District 1 candidate’s mother, who serves as a poll supervisor, was wearing a Michelle Watkins t-shirt at the polling location on Election Day and had marked sample ballots promoting her daughter’s candidacy. Reportedly, the city clerk had to remedy the situation, and it remains to be seen if the situation will escalate, but it could add a unique wrinkle to an already complicated city council runoff. In the District 1 Council race, Watkins, a former school board member, garnered 49.51% of the vote (1,963 votes) over incumbent Devyn Keith, who had 40.83% (1,619 votes). Reggie McKenzie was third with 9.66% (383 votes). Watkins and Keith will meet in a run-off election Sept. 24.
A challenge to Kling?
Looking ahead to the next round of municipal elections in Huntsville, we hear there could be a new challenger for longtime City Councilman Bill Kling. Reportedly, school board member Ryan Renaud is mulling a run for the District 4 city council seat. On hearing the rumor one observer remarked, “Good luck, plenty have tried and all have failed to unseat Kling. He’s like Teflon.” First elected to the Council in 1988, Kling won’t be up for reelection until 2026.
Madison up next …
With the exception of District 1 Runoffs in Huntsville’s City Council and School Board races, this year’s municipal elections are behind us and attention has already shifted to the City of Madison. Their elections were moved by legislation to August 2025 and they also have a unique timeline in that every City Council member and the mayor are on the ballot at the same time. Word is several long-time incumbents are either not running or likely to seek other offices, spurring concern that the whole fruit basket might turn over at once. Community groups are already meeting with current office-holders to determine who is in and who is out and recruiting potential candidates to run. Look for that activity to increase now that candidates for Madison city offices can now begin raising campaign dollars.
A GunRunner party!
Fresh off being named best boutique hotel by USA Today, the GunRunner boutique hotel in Florence is hosting a celebration to showcase their historic building. In addition to the hotel, the GunRunner medical spa, Turbo Coffee, and Lilly’s, a clothing boutique, will be offering tours, treats and fun on the evening of Sept. 5.
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