Tearing down to build up
Buildings have started coming down at the Butler Terrace site at Governors Drive and Seminole Drive in Huntsville. The older public housing has been razed to make way for a major redevelopment project that will involve HUD and the city of Huntsville. Councilman Devyn Keith has been a driving force working to see the area redeveloped to feature traditional and public housing units as well as more commercial and service-related businesses. This is a prime location for redevelopment with its close proximity to Stovehouse, Campus 805, Lowe Mill and downtown Huntsville. Expect to see plans announced early next year.
Freedom continues to grow
Freedom Real Estate has closed on a land deal in South Huntsville. Details on the planned office and commercial space to be built on the site have yet to be released but OTR hears it will be impressive.
River City renaissance
Decatur is carrying momentum into the new year. In 2023, the River City will see construction of the first downtown parking garage, an 80-room Fairfield Inn, dorms for the Alabama Center for the Arts, apartments and a re-imagined Farmers Market. Look for more announcements of restaurants and other businesses coming soon.
Bus altercation may go to court
More details involving the altercation on a James Clemons bus between a student and an administrator. The suspended student has retained the legal counsel of Mastando & Artrip. Attorney Eric Artrip tells us his firm is representing the minor plaintiff in this case, in a potential civil action. He says, “We were disappointed that the city of Madison school system was able to immediately determine that the the administrator had done nothing wrong without the benefit of any kind of proper investigation. As of now, we are not aware of any rules which would allow an administrator to legitimately punch one of his 15 year old students repeatedly in the face as depicted in the videos.”
Second thoughts on tax rebates
Despite early and vocal support from statewide leaders advocating for tax rebates, some legislators are urging caution before the regular legislative session begins in March. Gov. Ivey, Speaker of the House-elect Nathaniel Ledbetter and State Sen. Arthur Orr all spoke in favor of providing tax relief for Alabamians. However, economic forecasts are causing some legislators to rethink putting cash back into taxpayers’ pockets. We hear the rebates are looking less and less likely with each passing day.
Taxpayers not picking up tab for office reno
It seems new House Majority Leader Scott Stadthagen did not agree with an item in last week’s OTR. In a hastily planned livestream interview with garrulous radio host Dale Jackson, the Republican from Hartselle insisted campaign funds will be used to renovate his office – not taxpayer dollars. While no word if this includes the $50,000 Stadthagen’s STACKPAC received from Club for Growth, Leader Stadthagen was adamant with Jackson that his fundraising from Club for Growth for his STACKPAC will be used to turn out Republican voters.
Rolling blackouts a harbinger?
The rolling Christmas Eve blackouts across North Alabama were not only an inconvenience – they are also raising concerns about TVA’s generating capacity to serve the fast growing Tennessee Valley. Some local officials worry that these blackouts could impact the region’s competitiveness as we vie for future economic development projects.
Ticket sales not ‘playin possum’
Act fast if you’re planning on attending the Still Playin’ Possum tribute concert to George Jones at the VBC on April 25. Word is there are just a few tickets left. Organized by his widow, Nancy Jones, announced performers include Brad Paisley, Dierks Bentley, Jamey Johnson and many others. Rumors are that other big names from beyond the country music world will be announced soon.
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