Critical Needs are not Being Met

Alabama has immense infrastructure needs, from roads and bridges to broadband access, to water treatment and sewer upgrades.

 

• These issues are largely mirrored in North Alabama. We have areas of severe road congestion, poor rollout of broadband in some areas, and a water treatment problem with unregulated private sewer systems. These matters need action. Other parts of the state fixed this same sewer issue in 2022, but it has taken until this year for our representatives to finally propose legislation needed to fix this. We can do better.

 

• Utility costs are exploding. Electric power went up 5.1% in 2025, with the availability charge up 34%. We are fortunate that we are not under Alabama Power, but there are issues on the horizon with TVA, and residential and business growth will place a strain on the system.

 

• Huntsville Utilities has prepared a plan (the CERP) and I support it, but it is complex and will need skilled advocacy and focus to push it through the government. It affects all of us, especially those who are more vulnerable, if we cannot get these utility costs under control.

 

Finally, so much more can be done with solar power in the state, especially at the household level, if the proper incentives and planning are provided. Let’s get Plug-And-Play solar, like Utah allows, so you can generate your own energy simply and cheaply. We should be ahead on these issues, not behind!