Senate repeals prior community development district law tied to Smith Lake project

The Alabama State Senate voted to pass Senate Bill 12, which repeals last year’s statute (SB322) authorizing a community development district connected to a Smith Lake project. Senator Gudger, sponsor of SB12, told the chamber he originally supported the development last year but withdrew support after constituents in his county opposed changes to local culture and living conditions around the lake.

Gudger described the earlier project he had carried as including multiple components — conference center, hotel, marina and golf courses — and said the developer had planned an estimated $250 million to $350 million capital investment. He said, “This is SB12, which will be repealing that bill in its entirety, which was SB322 last year.” After the sponsor’s remarks and a motion for final passage, the Senate approved SB12 by voice vote and recorded a tally of 34 ayes, 0 nays.

The floor action repeals the prior statute’s statewide enabling language for that community development district (as described on the floor) and the sponsor noted the repeal applies to a state statute with county-specific application. The bill will proceed to the next steps required for enactment consistent with the legislative calendar.

Outcome: Final passage recorded as "Senate bill 12 passes" with a 34–0 tally on the day.