Local News

The Southern Poverty Law Center (SPLC) has raised concerns about how the City of Fayette handles unpaid garbage collection bills, outlining those concerns in a Feb. 9 letter to Fayette City Attorney Dale Lawrence. In the letter, SPLC attorneys said the organization represents two current or former Fayette residents who faced criminal prosecution after falling behind on sanitation payments. The group is asking city officials to review existing policies and consider possible adjustments moving forward.

The Alabama Board of Pardons and Paroles has denied parole for Billy Ray Stowe, who is serving a life sentence following his 1983 conviction for first-degree rape in Fayette County.

The Berry Industrial Authority recently hosted a public input session to gather community ideas for a proposed multipurpose building or pavilion that could serve as a public gathering space near downtown. Authority President Wes Madison said the goal of the meeting was to hear directly from residents about how the space could best serve the community as plans move forward. Tom Wisemiller, President and CEO of the Northwest Alabama Economic Development Alliance, led the discussion.

The Berry Town Council approved new protections for Bay’s Lake, heard updates on a proposed housing development and addressed ongoing park maintenance concerns during its recent meeting. Berry town council met on Feb. 2, all members were present. The meeting opened with a prayer led by council member Chris Lindsey, the Pledge of Allegiance, and approval of the previous meeting minutes before Mayor Mary Lollar presented awards from the town’s annual Christmas Tree Walk.

As Valentine’s Day approaches, couples across Fayette are celebrating love in ways that reflect their own stories, some with grand gestures, others with quiet evenings at home. For three local couples at different stages of life, the holiday isn’t about extravagance so much as appreciation, commitment and simply spending time together.

The Fayette County Commission approved a waste management contract renewal, supported a proposed property tax freeze for senior citizens and authorized a grant application benefiting local senior centers during its Jan. 27 meeting, which had been rescheduled due to inclement weather. The meeting was called to order at 6 p.m. with an opening prayer led by Commissioner David Hubbard, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. All commissioners were present.

The Fayette County Board of Education met on Jan. 29, for its regular monthly meeting. All board members except Tom Hubbert were present. The meeting began with prayer, led by board member John Aaron, and the Pledge of Allegiance, led by board member Portia Stowe. Guest speaker Jerry Wilson addressed the board first. He told board members he would like to help launch a Bible literature class similar to one he taught for years in Pontotoc, Mississippi. Wilson said the course would be an elective and would not be required for students.

I am excited to officially announce my 2026 candidacy for Fayette County Revenue Commissioner. As most of you know, I was appointed by the governor to finish out Ruby Porter’s term as Revenue Commissioner back in September of last year. I am so thankful and honored for the opportunity to fill this position.

The Fayette City Council held a work session Jan. 27 followed by its regular meeting, focusing on long-term planning priorities, downtown revitalization efforts, infrastructure updates and upcoming community initiatives.