A Statement From Mayor Steven Reed
October 29, 2025
Today, Donald Watkins, Jr. withdrew his name from consideration as the Director of Small and Minority Business Development.
While I have accepted Mr. Watkins' withdrawal, I want to make clear that this decision is not a reflection on his qualifications, experience, or passion for the city of Montgomery. 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.
Montgomery is a city on the rise. It is a place where innovation, entrepreneurship, and opportunity are shaping a stronger economic future for everyone who calls this city home. My administration has been unwavering in its commitment to helping small businesses and minority-owned enterprises not only start but scale for larger impact and growth.
However, it has become clear in recent days that his appointment has sparked unnecessary distraction and political fearmongering - diverting attention away from the critical work ahead. My responsibility as Mayor is to ensure that our shared goals for small business growth, job creation, and inclusive economic development remain our top priority. 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.
Our focus must remain on empowering Montgomery's entrepreneurs, especially those from underrepresented communities, with the tools and resources to thrive. That's why my administration continues to expand access to capital through our "Access to Capital" small business loan fund, support more equitable participation in city procurement and contracting, and strengthen partnerships with Black-owned financial institutions to open new pathways for local investment and growth. These are the kinds of strategic investments that will ensure Montgomery's small and minority businesses are positioned for long-term success.
Montgomery's future depends on a vibrant ecosystem where small businesses can grow, compete, and succeed. While this moment is disappointing, our direction is unchanged. We will continue to build a city where every entrepreneur has a fair shot and where economic progress is not slowed by politics or perception.
While I have accepted Mr. Watkins' withdrawal, I want to make clear that this decision is not a reflection on his qualifications, experience, or passion for the city of Montgomery. 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.
Montgomery is a city on the rise. It is a place where innovation, entrepreneurship, and opportunity are shaping a stronger economic future for everyone who calls this city home. My administration has been unwavering in its commitment to helping small businesses and minority-owned enterprises not only start but scale for larger impact and growth.
However, it has become clear in recent days that his appointment has sparked unnecessary distraction and political fearmongering - diverting attention away from the critical work ahead. My responsibility as Mayor is to ensure that our shared goals for small business growth, job creation, and inclusive economic development remain our top priority. 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.
Our focus must remain on empowering Montgomery's entrepreneurs, especially those from underrepresented communities, with the tools and resources to thrive. That's why my administration continues to expand access to capital through our "Access to Capital" small business loan fund, support more equitable participation in city procurement and contracting, and strengthen partnerships with Black-owned financial institutions to open new pathways for local investment and growth. These are the kinds of strategic investments that will ensure Montgomery's small and minority businesses are positioned for long-term success.
Montgomery's future depends on a vibrant ecosystem where small businesses can grow, compete, and succeed. While this moment is disappointing, our direction is unchanged. We will continue to build a city where every entrepreneur has a fair shot and where economic progress is not slowed by politics or perception.
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Contact:
Miguel Diaz-Lucier, Communications Director
mdiaz@montgomeryal.gov, (334) 625-4636
