Billy Don Anderson Rides Again

As one of his last acts in office, outgoing Sheffield Mayor Billy Don Anderson nominated himself for an opening on the Sheffield Utility Board. Council members Verna Brennan, Gary Scales, and Waylon Huguley (a Sheffield Police Department Captain) approved the nomination, arguing that Billy Don's previous term on the Board had been cut short by his election as mayor. With three out of five votes, BD won the appointment and is assured of another four years of connections to Sheffield government.

Billy Don Anderson is no stranger to controversy; in 1994 he had a lot of explaining to do when he underestimated and initially underpaid interest to investors in Valley Federal Bank. In 2004, Billy Don angered many connected with the University of North Alabama when he proposed that he and four others should form a mini-financial board to ensure a quorum for UNA financial planning meetings. After all, he said, the entire board didn't wish to be bothered with the actual financial details of the University or be forced to attend cumbersome meetings.

The Sheffield Utility Board meets the last Friday in every month. It may just become the best cheap comedy show around.


What's up with this: The Alabama Swappers club (yes, it's just what you think it is) has advertised that it will host a meeting in Sheffield in early 2009. While Sheffield does need new businesses, I don't think this is what Ian Sanford has in mind.

Ode to Billy Don

Midnight on October 31 will mark the end of Sheffield Mayor Billy Don Anderson's term in office. Defeated in his bid for another four years, Anderson is not going down without a fight.

Billy Don has called a special meeting for Friday at four o'clock. Ostensibly a budget meeting, sources close to the current mayor indicate that BD will attempt to have himself appointed to the Sheffield Utility Board. One of the few successful components of Sheffield, the utility department offers BD access to city records and could be used as a stepping stone to other positions--something BD would obviously prefer since the sale of his former bank left him without a job.

If you think there is more to this story, you're right. BD's camp has been responsible for rumors concerning the demise of the new River City/Riverfront Park development. Both Trophy Golf and River City Developers say this rumor is unfounded. Obviously, River City founders William B. Campbell Jr., Ron Riley, and David A. Steenson have ties to the area and are eager to see the project succeed.

All Sheffield citizens are urged to attend this meeting. Sheffield deserves a treat and not a Billy Don trick.


What's up with this: What local not-so-photogenic ambulance chaser is bringing suit against the town of Lexington? Sorry, guy, if your clients win, the town will probably be glad to hand over the key to the city.