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Huntsville mayor schedules town hall to address misinformation about proposed jail tax
Summary
The mayor announced a town hall for the city’s incorporated residents with Judge Larry Garrett and county elected officials to explain fiscal responsibility and answer questions about a proposed jail-sales-tax special election, citing widespread misinformation online.
Mayor told the City Council he has asked Judge Larry Garrett and other county elected officials to attend a planned town hall at the end of April to clarify facts and answer citizens’ questions about a proposed sales-tax measure tied to a county jail.
The mayor said the 1-cent sales-tax sunset discussion dates to October 2022, when the council expressed support for a jail-financing plan that would make room for a potential $7 million contribution. He told council members that recent social-media posts have circulated “false information or half-truths” about the special election and that the city should help ensure voters have verified information before they go to the polls.
“I want for our citizens to have all information and be worthy and well informed whenever they go to the polls,” the mayor said, adding, “Everyone is absolutely entitled to their own opinion, but none of us are entitled to their own facts.” He said the town hall will likely be held April 29 or 30 at about 6 p.m., venue to be determined, and that he will moderate. Judge Larry Garrett was described as already on board to participate.
Council staff said they will prepare a list of anticipated questions for the forum, provide factual materials in advance, and consider televising or live-streaming the event if held in the council chamber.
Next steps: city will finalize date/time/venue for the town hall, invite county officials and the chief, circulate prepared questions and materials, and offer public Q&A at the forum prior to the special election.
