Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in Alabama
Fluoride fix coming?
That decision to discontinue adding fluoride to the city of Madison’s water supply will most certainly be revisited. The move took many by surprise and caused the kind of uproar usually reserved for school re-zonings. Despite numerous rumors that the move was in accordance with recent RFK Jr. comments regarding plans to scale back fluoride in the country’s drinking water, insiders insist the Health and Human Services secretary had nothing to do with the decision. Monday’s Madison Utilities meeting is expected to be a packed house full of discontented dentists, peeved parents and a beleaguered board.
The commencement of commencements
Alabama politicos flocked to The University of Alabama on Thursday night to witness one of the most monumental headlining duos to ever team up in the Yellowhammer State: President Donald Trump and Nick Saban. Among those in closest proximity to the president yesterday were Tommy Tuberville and Dale Strong. Both Coach and Strong flew on Air Force One from Washington to Tuscaloosa and undoubtedly bent the president’s ear about their 2026 plans. Also in attendance were state legislators with prime real estate to watch the president’s address — which went over an hour, and included lavish praise for UA and the state as a whole. As well as Lt. Governor Will Ainsworth, Attorney General Steve Marshall, Secretary of State Wes Allen, and a who’s who of the state’s ruling class. It was huge for them, historic for the university, and offers yet more proof of President Trump’s deeply special connection to Alabama.
Strong and Bartlett for the W
One local high school student is going to be able to live his dream of attending the Air Force Academy thanks to a little help from North Alabama leaders. The Madison student had been accepted but his enrollment hit a snag over a minor issue found on his physical exam. Madison City Council member Ranae Bartlett heard about the situation and called Congressman Dale Strong for help. Strong and his office took on the case, calling the Academy directly and asking that they reconsider their decision. Word came this week that after a review the Academy agreed the issue was minor and greenlit his enrollment. Entering his second term, Strong has already been credited with a local staff that responds quickly and effectively to constituent concerns.
A new city council candidate in Madison
Long-time Madison resident Billie Goodson has thrown his hat into the ring for Madison City Council District 3. The seat is currently held for Teddy Powell, who is reportedly not seeking reelection. In his announcement Goodson touted “growth management and responsible fiscal management” as top priorities. So far, he is the only announced candidate for the District 3 seat.
Chamber travels
The Huntsville/Madison County Chamber made its annual pilgrimage to Washington and had quite the time. By all reports, it was a record-setting attendance by local business leaders and elected officials, such as Mayors Tommy Battle and Paul Finley and Madison County Commission Chairman Mac McCutcheon. The group heard from Sens. Katie Britt and Tommy Tuberville along with Oklahoma Sen. Markwayne Mullin. On the House side, speakers included Reps. Dale Strong (R-Huntsville) and Robert Aderholt (R-Haleyville) as well as Reps. Scott DesJarlais of Tennessee and Morgan Luttrell of Texas.
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