By Cindi Branham, Communications, Madison Democratic Party
HUNTSVILLE, AL, September 17, 2021 – Despite Madison County Commissioner Violet Edwards’ attempt to postpone a vote, Commission Chair Dale Strong and the Madison County Commission approved a $36 million allocation of funds made available through the American Rescue Plan Act, without seemingly appropriate input from the public.
The County Party agrees that Madison County employees deserve a $5,000 bonus for their courageous work throughout this pandemic, but also that federal funds designated for relief should go to projects that materially improve working families’ lives and that the public deserves to have a say in how those funds are used.
Neither public review or comment were taken as the budget was passed on September 15.
Chairman Strong has announced plans to use the next round ($36M) of federal relief funds to continue a renovation of the Madison County Courthouse, not to help struggling families. The American Rescue Plan Act calls for a commitment to serve the hardest-hit communities and families. It’s the duty of the full Madison County Commission to use these funds to help working families, and allow Madi- son County’s residents to guide how these dol lars are used.
The Madison County
Democrats view the current approach as funding projects that County should but has not stepped up to cover, leaving Courthouse updates to appear as vanity projects.
The Madison County Democrats believe in the equality of all people, the power of education, the dignity of work, and our responsibility to each other, especially the least of these. The Democratic Party of Madison County promotes and supports progressive ideals and candidates throughout our communities.
www.MadisonCountyDemocrats.com
