Several new businesses have announced that they are planning to locate in Decatur. Among these, are Golden Corral and Milo’s Hamburgers. Apparently, those in charge in the Decatur Economic and Community Development, have common sense to reach out, and lure businesses in, when other businesses leaves.

That speaks volumes, when compared to Hartselle. We buy undeveloped land, develop it, and hog tie the surrounding land for 20 years, and prohibit any other similar style restaurant from locating there, just to get them here. This was one of the worst decisions ever made by any council, (other than the purchase of this exact land), in the 23 years we’ve lived in this town.

We have another situation soon to come, where we have the opportunity to put some credible leadership in Hartselle. To do this, we must look for someone that can see that remaining a dry town, only stifles growth. Several business entities have given the thumbs down to coming here, because of the inability of voters to look past the absolute untruths, on passing the legalized alcohol referendum.

These untruths are promoted by people that refuse to comprehend what the Bible actually says about alcohol. The Bible does not prohibit the consumption of alcohol but leaves that choice up to the individual. Jesus himself instituted the Lord’s Supper before he was crucified, incorporating wine into the sacrament. In Canaan, he turned water into wine. The Apostle Paul tells Timothy to not drink water, but to drink wine for the sake of his stomach and his infirmities. The sin is not to consume, but to abuse!

Let’s face it. Hartselle is still stuck in the 20th century. We still have people more inclined to be the “good ole boys,” than be business friendly, business acquainted, elected representatives. This has got to change! Staying dry will have some affects in Hartselle. Less tax revenue, means less growth. More needed upgrades, equipment, and repairs to streets, etc., will be sidelined and more businesses will look past Hartselle. Simply put, staying dry, is a “no win” solution!

Mike Dowdy

Hartselle