DECATUR, Ala. — After a surprising announcement from Decatur Mayor Tab Bowling at Monday night's Decatur City Council work session, some community members in attendance, were not very happy. Over the last four months, the public comment portion of the Decatur City Council meetings have been a place where the community can voice their frustrations about the death of Steve Perkins. During the meeting, Mayor Bowling announced that he would no longer stay for most public comments due to what he claims are false information and threats. "Public comments initially provided a valuable avenue for community expression, it has become evident that many comments are no longer constructive. Some have resorted to baseless accusations and threats directed towards me, my family, city council members and others in the city. I do not believe that these false comments and threats are reflective of the people of Decatur," said Bowling.
This didn't sit well with community members in attendance. Community members made it very clear that this move put a stamp on what they feel is a "lack" of government. "Mam' if you just get up and say I'm tired of people calling me murders and all this, that, and the other could you just get up and walk off your job? Then, why should he be able to? That's crazy, "said Lovell Craig.
During the work session, there were also questions about the parade ordinance. "Basically, to make sure we understand, if you have an item that affects the streets, sidewalks, public spaces, entrances of buildings you need a permit. if you don't do those things you don't need a permit. that's simple as that."
The amended parade ordinance is expected to be voted on at the next Decatur City Council meeting.