Nearly 500 people turned out to hear Siegelman emphasize the importance of education in Alabama s future. After he was introduced by Oxford Mayor Leon Smith, Siegelman acknowledged the protesters and asked that they respect his right to speak. What some of you don t know is that I don t have any impact on ADEM, Siegelman said in response to a question. He did propose that relocation may be the solution for those affected by PCBs, or that a clinic should be formed to take care of residents illnesses. You do have the right to expect something out of me, Siegelman said.
Some peace of mind needs to be given.
Reforming the state s environmental agency would have his support, the governor said earlier in the meeting. However, most of Siegelman s speech centered on reforming education, fighting crime and promoting economic development. He also supports teacher testing and the elimination of teacher tenure, he said. Alabama s graduation exam is considered the toughest in the nation, he said. By itself, that s no reason for applause, he added.