Good morning, Decatur.

Decatur city officials plan to build a new parking deck with over 500 spaces for the Cook Museum of Natural Science expansion at a cost of about $17 million.

Mayor Tab Bowling said bond market funds will start the project, which will need utility relocation on Holly Street and take about 14 months once bids are let—helping the museum serve more students in STEM classes.

Priceville police stopped a car early at 12:30 a.m. on Thursday at an interstate 65 off ramp and arrested two Hartselle residents after finding methamphetamine, fentanyl, marijuana and drug paraphernalia, then executed a warrant at a Hartselle home where additional drugs, a digital scale and a firearm were discovered—charges include trafficking in dangerous drugs with bail set over $200K each.

Priceville Police arrested two Hartselle residents, Houston Brooks McElroy and Kara Elizabeth Boyles, on drug trafficking charges after a 12:30 a.m. traffic stop on I-65 led officers to a search on May Road in Hartselle that uncovered methamphetamine, fentanyl, marijuana, digital scales—and a firearm.

State data shows Morgan and Limestone counties, including Decatur, have some of the highest labor participation and lowest unemployment rates in the state + the findings indicate strong local economic performance.

Decatur voters will choose their school board members on Aug.

26; all districts run unopposed except District 1, where incumbent Michele Gray King faces Stephanice Allen. Peggy Baggett and Jason Palmer keep their seats while Katye Coats and Alberto Miguez join the board in Districts 3 and 5.

Decatur will hold its city council election on August 26 with 14 candidates competing for five seats.

Candidates plan to address growth challenges, rising costs and police transparency—one incumbent is running for mayor while others focus on community outreach.

Dawes Concert

7:00 – 8:30 PM — The Princess Theatre — Tickets ranging from $73 to $925 — Enjoy an exciting live performance by Dawes at a renowned venue.