Birmingham, AL – A Republican candidate for governor says officials in Alabama's most populated county should immediately seek a Chapter 9 bankruptcy to deal with an about $4 million in debt on its sewer system.
State Rep. Robert Bentley of Tuscaloosa said filing for bankruptcy is the most reasonable way to begin discussions to end the financial crisis in Jefferson County.
He said the crisis over the sewer debt must be resolved because Jefferson County, which includes Alabama's largest city, Birmingham, is the state's economic center.
Bentley is one of six Republicans and two Democrats who have announced they are seeking the governor's office in 2010. Incumbent Gov. Bob Riley is serving his second term and can't seek re-election.
(Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)