A political action committee (PAC) that supported Mayor Sandy Stimpson in the last municipal election is fattening its wallet. The South Alabamians for Good Government PAC has raised more than $200,000 in the last few months, according to disclosures required by the Fair Campaign Practices Act.
PAC Chairman Richard Weavill said the name of the PAC describes its purpose, adding that the group is "simply raising money and preparing" for upcoming races.
The PAC has been active since 2001, long before Stimpson decided to run for mayor. Weavill stopped short of saying whether the group would support Stimpson again, or whether it had discussed supporting any candidates.
In addition to Stimpson, Weavill said the PAC has previously supported the gubernatorial races of Bob Riley and Bradley Byrne.
Stimpson spokesman George Talbot wouldn't confirm whether the mayor will seek a second term, but said any support is appreciated.
A monthly campaign finance report from May shows the PAC increased its funds from a balance of $4,551 to $106,801. That same report shows a single $250 expenditure in the form of a donation to People United to Advance the Dream Inc.
Sizeable $10,000 donations came in May from a group of individuals and businesses, including Joel B. Bullard, Donald A. Urquhart Jr., Beard Equipment Company, W. Allen Cox, J. Richard Miller III, B. White-Spunner, John White-Spunner, Tal Vickers, Palmer's Toyota Superstore and Fred Stimpson, the mayor's brother.
The group raised $31,250 in June, receiving a $10,000 donation from Harris V. Morrisette. In July, the group received $45,500 in donations, including two for $10,000 each from Norvelle L. Smith and Rodney A. Pilot. Businesses, including Dean McCrary Imports, Gulf Coast Truck & Equipment Company and LSB Contracting LLC, donated $5,000 each.
In August, the group raised $11,000, including a $10,000 donation from Thomas B. Ward III.
In the September report, filed Friday, Oct. 2, the group indicated it raised $9,350 from six individual donors. The group also made a $250 donation to the Committee to Re-elect Judge Sarah Stewart.