Madison County separation referendum explained
What is the Madison County separation referendum?
The Madison County separation referendum is a measure on the ballot in Madison County, Alabama, in the 2022 general election. If approved by voters, the measure would create a new county from the eastern portion of Madison County.
What are the arguments for and against the separation referendum?
Supporters of the separation referendum argue that a new county would be able to provide better services to its residents, including better schools, roads, and parks. They also argue that a new county would be more responsive to the needs of its residents, as it would be smaller and more manageable than Madison County.
Opponents of the separation referendum argue that it would be too costly to create a new county, and that it would lead to higher taxes. They also argue that a new county would be less efficient than Madison County, as it would have to duplicate many of the services that are currently provided by Madison County.
What is the history of the separation referendum?
The movement to create a new county from the eastern portion of Madison County has been going on for several years. In 2019, the Madison County Commission voted to put the separation referendum on the ballot in the 2022 general election.
What is the likely outcome of the separation referendum?
The outcome of the separation referendum is uncertain. However, polls show that the measure is likely to be defeated. A recent poll by the University of Alabama found that 53% of voters in Madison County oppose the separation referendum, while only 47% support it.