MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WSFA) – From public safety to economic developments, Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed touched on several topics during a Monday news conference.
“I believe if we’re truly committed to the safety of our communities, we must approach the issue of gun violence with a comprehensive strategy,” Reed explained. He believes can be made at the state level.
But Reed is expressing concerns about two bills, House Bill 14 and House Bill 103. There was disappointment about HB103, which failed last week. It would have held parents accountable if their child brings a weapon to school.
HB 14 is still up in the air. Reed called the legislation dangerous, saying it would give the state’s attorney general and governor the power to appoint an interim police chief.
“State leaders could override municipal governments, even in well-functioning cities. That, to me, is problematic when it comes to local control and thing that are done, and should be decided, at the local level,” the mayor explained.
Reed also spoke on economic development, noting a lot of activity in the capital city.
A year ago, the Alabama FC South announced it would be joining the Gulf Coast Premier League to bring semi-professional soccer to Montgomery. On Monday, the mayor announced a sports multiplex is in the works to come to Montgomery, along with a professional soccer team.
“The city has committed to a market study on the viability of a professional soccer team,” the mayor confirmed. Few other details were available.
The mayor sports “generates millions of dollars in tax revenue for our city and our region. College football helps fuel local spending on food, lodging, retail, and yes even alcohol and beverage taxes.”
The city is already a sports hub with the presence of Cramton Bowl, Lagoon Park, and Riverwalk Stadium.
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