Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed has announced that Donald Watkins, Jr. has withdrawn his name from consideration for the position of director of Small and Minority Business Development. This decision follows scrutiny and controversy surrounding Watkins, Jr.’s family, particularly his father, Donald Watkins, Sr., who was convicted of multiple fraud-related charges.
According to the U.S. Department of Justice, Watkins, Sr. misappropriated funds from various victims, including former NBA star Charles Barkley, using their money for personal expenses such as alimony, luxury items, and loans. Watkins, Sr. faced convictions on seven counts of wire fraud, two counts of bank fraud, and one count of conspiracy. In a related case, Watkins, Jr. was found guilty of one count of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy.
If appointed, Watkins, Jr. would have played a crucial role in mobilizing financial resources and fostering investment from banks, philanthropic organizations, and government agencies for the city. Mayor Reed proposed a salary of $120,960 for the position, pending approval from the Montgomery Personnel Board.
During a recent board meeting, member James R. “Spud” Seale expressed strong objections to the proposed salary, stating, “Starting a convicted felon at $120,960 not only sends the wrong message to the city, but it also sends the wrong message to all the first responders and garbage collectors who’ve been asking for raises. I cannot vote for this. I just think it’s egregious and unfair.”
In a statement regarding Watkins, Jr.’s withdrawal, Reed emphasized that the decision does not reflect on Watkins’ qualifications or experience. “He is an exceptionally talented professional who has demonstrated both the knowledge and the heart required to support Montgomery’s growing and essential small business community,” Reed stated.
The Mayor highlighted that Montgomery is experiencing a period of growth, with a focus on innovation and entrepreneurship. His administration remains committed to fostering small businesses and minority-owned enterprises, stating that it is crucial to empower entrepreneurs from underrepresented communities.
Reed noted that the controversy surrounding Watkins, Jr.’s potential appointment had diverted attention from critical work ahead. He reaffirmed his responsibility to keep the city’s mission focused on small business growth, job creation, and inclusive economic development.
“We cannot afford to have that mission overshadowed by those looking to gain political popularity at the expense of an overly qualified and dynamic business leader,” Reed said. He reiterated the need for strategic investments to ensure long-term success for Montgomery’s small and minority businesses.
The Mayor’s office continues to expand access to capital through initiatives like the “Access to Capital” small business loan fund and is working to ensure equitable participation in city procurement and contracting. Strengthening partnerships with Black-owned financial institutions is also a priority, intended to create new pathways for local investment and growth.
While the withdrawal of Donald Watkins, Jr. is viewed as a setback, Reed remains optimistic about Montgomery’s direction. He concluded, “Our focus must remain on empowering Montgomery’s entrepreneurs, especially those from underrepresented communities, with the tools and resources to thrive.”
