Tennessee Valley lawmakers and educators are trying to figure out the possible effects of the feds looking into the already-controversial Alabama Accountability Act.More >>
Friday, May 24 2013 10:22 PM EDT2013-05-25 02:22:10 GMT
State Troopers will be eyeing the roadways for drivers who aren't wearing seatbelts and other violations this holiday weekend. More >>
State Troopers will be eyeing the roadways for drivers who aren't wearing seatbelts and other violations this holiday weekend.More >>
ATHENS, AL (WAFF) -
The sequestration deadline is Friday. If lawmakers cannot make a deal by March 1, the automatic spending cuts will begin.
Athens leaders are looking closely at how it will affect the city. The biggest concern there is sales tax revenue.
The military-based economy would take the biggest hit.
Mayor Ronnie Marks said many Athens residents work for defense contractors. If they are laid off or have their hours cut, the city could lose some sales tax money.
"It has a direct effect on going to the retail stores, on whether you can drive your car another 50,000 miles, or whether you need a new one. All of this trickles down," said Marks.
He said there is also some concern about the loss of federal grant opportunities used to help the Athens police and fire departments.
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