Annexation: Fact Vs. Fiction

Those for and against Mobile's controversial annexation plan are making their opinions known, but not everything you've seen and heard is true. Claims on flyers and websites circulated by both sides are raising red flags.

A website created by an anti-annexation group from Semmes claims if you become a part of the city, you'll lose your right to vote for five years. The website is referring to an Alabama law written in 1907, which was struck down by the Alabama Supreme Court and the US Supreme Court.

Another misconception being spread in the Moffett Road area is the idea that if residents are annexed, their kids will be forced to switch schools, a claim Mobile County's school superintendent says is not true. In a letter to Mayor Sam Jones, Dr. Roy Nichols says the reports are "erroneous rumours" and says the city's annexation plan has nothing to do with school zoning.

As for the city's campaign, claims of free services like garbage and trash pickup just don't pass the smell test for some opponents. In reality, annexed residents will pay higher property and sales tax. Annexed residents who own a $150,000 home, will see their property tax increase $150 a year beginning in five years. Patrons of annexed businesses will also pay an extra 2% sales tax.

A special election on the annexation referendum is Tuesday, October 7.