Harsh Words Heard at Franklinton Council Meeting

The Franklinton Board of Aldermen meeting Tuesday, April 25, 2017 was largely devoted to hearing and answering charges by businessman Doug Williams that he was not being treated fairly by the town in his effort to purchase a business property from the town. The exchange of words became heated at times.
Williams approached Mayor Richard Dillon in January, 2017 with a desire to purchase property in the Industrial Park, where he would construct a manufacturing facility. Williams advised he has the necessary bank financing arranged and owns the needed equipment. Williams expressed that he has been disappointed with the tenor of the initial meeting, what he considers unnecessary delays, and the town's request for personal financial statements.
Mayor Dillon said that, at the initial meeting, he advised Williams that the process of selling the town's property is a lengthy process and governed by state statute. Apparently factors slowing down the process are obtaining an appraisal of the property, the need to publish Public Notices to the public, the prudent process of vetting Williams, failure and delays of Williams to provide a business plan and other requested documents, and the cancellation of a scheduled April 24th meeting by Williams.
Weighing in on the controversy were Town Attorney Ellen Creel, the town's financial advisor Bruce Harrell, and WIDF Director Ryan Seal.
View video of the meeting below. Discussion of the Williams' issue begins at 2:24 into video of the meeting.

Franklinton Council 04252017 from Mt. Hermon Web-TV on Vimeo.