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2/27/13
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741 views
Editorial
City capable of evaluating development
The city has solid leadership as it heads into negotiations over a major retail development being considered in the Decatur-annexed portion of Limestone County.
Details are sparse, but city officials — bound by confidentiality agreements — say the $1.3 billion development would create up to 4,000 jobs.
Five years ago, Mayor Don Kyle was dealing with developers over Sweetwater, a Bass Pro-anchored project in the same general location. Fortunately, the project did not go forward. Developers made high demands. The recession would have jeopardized both the project and Decatur’s financial stability.
Kyle — a former banker — had a good grasp of the complexities of the Sweetwater deal. He understood the benefits, but he did not ignore the costs. If he puts the same energy and balance into his negotiations over the latest development proposal, Decatur residents can be comfortable that any deal protects the city’s interests.
Kyle has advantages he did not enjoy five years ago. Community and Economic Development Director Wally Terry, also a former banker, will be a valuable asset in negotiations. The City Council is functioning better than it has in years, with President Gary Hammon demonstrating a thorough understanding of city operations and recently elected Councilman Chuck Ard adding business expertise.
A large retail presence on Alabama 20, near the Madison County border, would not just reduce leakage of sales to Madison County, it could reverse it.
Kyle and the City Council should recognize the tremendous potential while guarding against undue risk. They are up to the task.
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As someone who knows each of these men and has, at some point in our lives, worked with each of them professionally... Believe me, they ARE NOT up to the task. But, they will meet the need and expectations of the Daily and of our community... Just not of a community of more learned and wealthier folks. They would do well to seek assistance from someone who has a clue. Yes??
@ Jerry. And who would that be Jerry? Possibly yourself? For a fee of course! LOL
Everyone agrees that a professional city manager would make this a smoother process, but the mayor / council are doing a pretty good job.
We need to do everything we can to make this a success.
This development will have a huge impact on our region.
Isn't this article exactly what I posted yesterday?
Hiya Dave, Got to agree with you on this one. An experienced manager would help but the backgrounds of Wally and Don will service us well.
The only thing I disagree with is the statement about hammon having a thorough understanding of the workings of the citiy.
Gary doesn't have a thorough understanding of much of anything.
You are dead on about Hammon. Thick as a brick.
Déjà vu... HOW many proposals for a development in Limestone?? Yes, it will eventually happen (maybe this time), but you could paper ALOT of cages with the DECATUR DELAY papers holding headlines of Hwy 20 development pitches.
Don Kyle signed a non-disclosure agreement????? And he is dealing with OUR money?????
FOUL!