Walker County, Alabama is a governor’s signature away from voting on a sales tax increase.
Walker county borrowed money fifteen years ago for road repairs, salaries and equipment. It hasn’t started paying it back yet. Now, it owes more than double what it borrowed. The commission is hoping an extra penny sales will help repay the debt and keep the county afloat.
Phillip Windham was born and raised in Walker County.
“I love Walker County,” said Windham. “I’m here because I choose to be here.”
But Windham sees serious needs in his county and says he’s willing to pay a higher sales tax to help.
“When you complain about the roads, the bridges, the infrastructure- we just need a lot of things in this county,” said Windham. “That’s the only way you’re going to get it. You have to pay for it.”
That’s exactly the message Commission Chairman Jerry Bishop is trying to spread.
He’s been in office less than a year and inherited a $25.6 million dollar problem. That’s how much money the county now owes on a $9.8 million bond issued in 2002.
The money was spent years ago but never repaid. Now, payments will need to begin in February, 2018.
“It was some bad decisions with some bad advice that caused it all and that’s just the way it is,” Bishop told ABC 33/40.
Walker County is already struggling to meet basic needs.
“Our roads are torn up,” said Bishop. “We can’t afford to repair them. We don’t have enough money. We’re working part time people. Our employees haven’t had a raise since 2002.”
He says if the tax doesn’t pass, more services are on the chopping block and bankruptcy is a real possibility.
“What I’ve got to do is look to the future,” said Bishop. “Our grandchildren and children- Bankruptcy would kill our county. I think the public understands that. They understand what we’re trying to do here.”
If Governor Ivey signs the bill, Bishop wants the vote on August 15, that would be the same time as the primary for the U.S. Senate seat.
Bishop says it would generate $7-8 million annually. He says each year, $1.5 million would go to pay off the debt. Part would be earmarked for public safety and economic development. He says the majority would be designated for road and infrastructure repairs.
I SENT THIS IN BECAUSE OF THE FIRST PARAGRAPH THAT SAYS IT ALL……..