By Sarah Stephens
Elmore Autauga News
Town of Pine Level officials are very happy that Representative Jerry Starnes has signed the bill that he co-signed, to potentially allow the town to annex property which would include the Pine Level 186 exit on Interstate 65.
It is another step toward the annexation, but the bill now moves to the Senate for a vote and potential approval during this legislative session.
Rep. Van Smith sponsored the bill, with Rep. Jerry Starnes and Rep. Kelvin Lawrenc co-sponsoring. Starnes delayed signing to allow time for Prattville officials to learn more about the plans for Pine Level.
He signed the bill today officially, which means it can move out of committee, to the House, and eventually to the Senate.
Pine Level Mayor Zachary Bigley contacted the EAN with the following statement:
Today marks a monumental win for our beloved Pine Level with the signing of HB 598 by Representative Jerry Starnes. As your mayor, my top priority has always been to do what’s best for our town, and today’s achievement is a testament to that commitment.
“In the past week, we have received incredible support from community leaders and citizens alike. Together, we are focused on growth, establishing prosperity for our children and grandchildren, and creating a vibrant community we can all be proud of.
This is our moment! We finally have a voice, and it’s clear that Pine Level is here to stay. Our community matters, and your unwavering support has been a driving force behind this success. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who has stood by us – from residents to leaders across the River Region.
“The importance of this exit for pine Level and Autauga County cannot be overstated. If you didn’t know about Pine Level before, you certainly do now.
“It’s not over yet, there are still steps for this bill to take, but this is the breath of fresh air we needed.
“Let’s continue to show our appreciation to Rep. Starnes for his decision to sign the bill and for listening to our voice. Plus, it must be noted how much Rep. Van Smith, Senator Chambliss and Rep. Kelvin Lawrence played in the support of this bill. Without them, we wouldn’t have been this far. Together, we can achieve great things!
“Thank you all for standing with Pine Level. Here’s to a brighter future for Pine Level.”
Prattville Mayor Bill Gillespie sent a statement to the EAN that reads:
“As Mayor of Prattville, I want to extend my best wishes to the Town of Pine Level as they move forward with their development efforts. We respect the autonomy of our neighboring municipalities and support decisions made in the interest of their communities.
“However, I am concerned about the limited communication between our municipalities throughout this process. Pine Level’s path to incorporation and annexation has been a complex and layered one. It has also come to my attention that as part of their incorporation, a police jurisdiction was established that extends over the I-65 interstate corridor. It has been reported that Pine Level is collecting sales tax and business licenses in the Police Jurisdiction (PJ). The establishment of a PJ does essentially establish Pine Level on the south end of Exit 186.
“I also regret that much of the public discussion around these developments has played out in a negative tone on social media. These are serious matters that deserve thoughtful and respectful engagement between local leaders and the communities we serve.
“Prattville remains committed to collaboration, transparency and building strong working relationships with our neighboring municipalities. We believe in planning together, growing responsibly and ensuring the best outcomes for all Autauga County.”
