Donald Watkins, Jr., withdraws name from consideration for City of Montgomery position

Montgomery Mayor Steven Reed has announced that Donald Watkins, Jr., has withdrawn his name from consideration as the director of Small and Minority Business Development.

As Action 8 News has reported, according to the U.S. Department of Justice, Watkins and his father, Donald Watkins, Sr., were convicted in March 2019 for defrauding NBA star Charles Barkley and using the name of former Secretary of State Condoleezza Rice to lend credibility to an investment scheme.

According to the U.S. Department of Justice, the victims’ money was used to pay Watkins, Sr.,’s alimony, back taxes, personal loans and to fund luxury expenses including a private jet and designer clothing purchased by Watkins, Jr., and his wife. Watkins, Sr., was convicted on seven counts of wire fraud, two counts of bank fraud and one count of conspiracy, while Watkins , Jr., was found guilty of one count of wire fraud and one count of conspiracy.

If hired by the mayor, Watkins, Jr., would have been responsible for mobilizing financial resources and cultivating investment from banks, philanthropic organizations and government agencies on behalf of the city.

Reed had asked the Montgomery Personnel Board to approve a salary of $120,960 for Watkins, Jr., to take a role with the city. The board’s approval was required before the salary can be finalized.

At least one board member voiced strong opposition to the proposed hire.

“Starting a convicted felon at $120,960 not only sends the wrong message to the city,” board member James R. “Spud” Seale said. “It 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.”

Board member Jacqueline Crawford said she shared Seale’s concerns but asked for more time before making a decision.

Mayor Reed released this statement:

“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.”