SJR99 Alabama 2022 Session

Updated Feb 26, 2026

Low Interest

Summary

Primary Sponsor: Tom ButlerSenator
Republican
Session: Regular Session 2022
Title: Wilbanks, Burwell L., recognized
Summary: A Senate Joint Resolution recognizing and commending Burwell L. 'Sonny' Wilbanks, longtime mayor of Madison, Alabama, for his outstanding public service.
What This Bill Does
If enacted, the Alabama Legislature would officially recognize and commend Mayor Burwell L. Wilbanks for his service to Madison and the state. It highlights his tenure as Madison's mayor from 1969 to 1988, his prior Navy service and work with NASA, and specific community improvements during his tenure. The resolution expresses the legislature's highest tribute, deepest admiration, and best wishes for his future endeavors, and becomes part of the official record with ceremonial signatures from legislative leaders.

Who It Affects
Mayor Burwell L. 'Sonny' Wilbanks of Madison, Alabama — receives formal recognition and commendation for his public service.
Residents of Madison, Alabama — gain recognition of the leadership that contributed to local improvements and growth during Wilbanks's tenure.

Key Provisions
Recognition and commendation of Burwell L. 'Sonny' Wilbanks for outstanding service to Madison and Alabama.
Summary of Wilbanks's background and service: mayor of Madison (1969-1988); U.S. Navy service (1950-1952); work as an engineer at NASA in the Saturn Instrument Group; interactions with top scientists including Wernher von Braun.
Highlights of accomplishments during his tenure: addition of a high school, widening of Hughes Road, opening of a branch library, hiring of the first full-time firefighters, founding of the North Alabama Gas District, preservation of Madison's tax base with Interstate 565, and opposition to the Huntsville annexation.
Expression of the legislature's highest tribute, deepest admiration, and best wishes for his future endeavors.
Formal adoption by both chambers and certification by appropriate officers.

AI-generated summary using openai/gpt-5-nano on Feb 22, 2026. May contain errors — refer to the official bill text for accuracy.
Subjects: Resolutions, Congratulatory