Development questions affect us all

By Staff
Local officials in the county are divided in their opinion as to how the county should fund economic development projects.
State Rep. Johnny Mack Morrow has introduced a bill that would divert the county's severance tax to road repairs rather than economic development, which it has been used for since 2004.
The county commission supports Morrow's bill, while Probate Judge Barry Moore does not.
The Russellville and Red Bay city councils have openly opposed the measure.
State Sen. Roger Bedford is also opposed to the bill and said that he does not expect it to pass in the Senate.
It is a shame this comes at a time when the county seemed poised to work together and build for the future, despite a harsh economy that has affected us all.
We urge all local leaders to find some way, even if it's not the severance tax, to fund the Franklin County Development Authority.
All parties indicate that they are committed to the authority and economic development. Now is the time to find out our county's commitment to the future.