Theodore Residents Debated Possible Mobile Annexation in 2007
Archived WKRG coverage captured Theodore residents' early debate over a possible annexation into Mobile, weighing services against higher taxes.
Historical report, published from archived local news coverage.
In 2007, Theodore residents were discussing the possibility of annexation into the City of Mobile, according to an archived local news report. Theodore Improvement Association members had met at Mount Ararat Baptist Church to discuss possible benefits of joining the city.
Supporters cited enhanced fire and police services as the principal benefits of annexation. Opponents raised concerns about higher sales taxes for Theodore businesses.
Association member Joe Green said the decision should be made by a majority vote.
Residents interviewed by a local station expressed different views: some opposed an increase in taxes, while others supported annexation in hopes of receiving services such as garbage collection without a separate charge.
The station reported that three other West Mobile areas had rejected annexation in a September vote.
This is a historical account of the early discussion as it stood in 2007.
The question returns in 2008
The question came back the next year. In August 2008 the Mobile City Council authorized a special election on Mayor Sam Jones’ proposal to annex four areas, including portions of Theodore and Tillmans Corner. Under Alabama’s annexation-by-election method, only qualified voters living inside each proposed area could vote.
At that election on Oct. 7, 2008, voters in the area designated as the Theodore Area approved annexation 460 to 193, according to probate court records, and Probate Judge Don Davis declared that area part of the City of Mobile on Oct. 16, 2008.
