Off The Record: The latest rumors and rumblings in North Alabama
Gas tax rumbling?
As the Alabama Legislature prepares to go in to session next month some voices in Montgomery seem to be testing the waters for a gas tax increase. The Legislature raised Alabama’s gas tax by 10 cents in 2019 to 28 cents per gallon. That new funding is part of the Rebuild Alabama program that has funded road construction across Alabama and is popular with road builders and local governments. While talk of an increase continues, most insiders do not think an increase in this session is likely, considering the anti-tax stance of many legislators and the fact that next year’s election is right around the corner.
Never say never to gaming
After a contentious battle over gaming between the Alabama House and Senate last session, many representatives washed their hands of the issue, predicting it wouldn’t come up again for years. While the House apparently has no appetite for gaming, the same can’t be said for the Senate. New Pro Tem Garlan Gudger is widely viewed as being more open to additional gaming legislation. While Speaker Nathaniel Ledbetter won’t say never, he has made it abundantly clear any further legislation would have to come from the upper chamber.
PBR bucks out of Bridge Street; more hitting the trail
PBR Lockhart Smokehouse has closed after opening its 8,000-plus square-foot space at Bridge Street in October 2022. Apparently, three retailers will close there by the end of the month, as well. Bridge Street was purchased in December 2023 by Tanger. PBR Lockhart, a cowboy-themed bar and restaurant, featured a mechanical bull and a dance floor. One local food enthusiast refused to join the many online commentators condemning the bland BBQ and overpriced beer but did add, “We’ve got so many great local offerings, meat that tastes like franchise BBQ won’t cut it.” Employees were reportedly not informed the location would be closing, showing up for work to locked doors on New Year’s Day. On the retail side, Chico’s, Soma and White House Black Market employees were reportedly told they would be out of jobs by Jan. 26.
Perkins for Mayor?
There are rumblings the brother of Steve Perkins is contemplating a run for mayor of Decatur. Nick Perkins has been speaking to area groups as well as pushing for new body camera legislation in the aftermath of his brother’s shooting death. Steve Perkins was shot and killed by Decatur police in September 2023. Former police officer Mac Marquette has been charged with murder. That trial is set to get underway in April.
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