Citizens protest bond issue vote

Published 12:00 am Tuesday, November 20, 2007

The Selma Times-Journal

Recently members of the Selma City Council expressed concern over lack of public interest in

a proposed $11.7 million bond issue.

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But on Monday, seven of the eight council members heard the public loud and clear.

While citizens in council chambers asked the council to vote in favor of the bond issue; others stood outside with signs.

Stewart said having a movie theatre would boost Selma’s economy, because young people won’t have to go to Prattville or Montgomery to go to the movies. He also pointed out the potential danger associated with teenagers traveling such long distances.

Frank J. Smith, another Selma resident, encouraged the council to vote in favor of the bond issue, stating the esthetic appearance of the town can draw or drive away potential industries.

Holding up posters in protest of the proposed surveillance cameras, and in support of making the Selma Police Department study public, demonstrators gathered outside of City Hall during the council meeting.

Andrews and fellow protesters said the city needs more policemen, not cameras.

The group was not happy about being denied access to the draft of the police study to done by Public Safety Consultants Inc. of Wetumpka.

The definite location of the proposed movie theatre has not been disclosed either.