Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority Names Tim Parker Board Chair

A familiar face will follow in his father's footsteps and chair the Tuscaloosa County Economic Development Authority, seeking to draw new industries and businesses to the area or entice existing ones to expand.

The TCEDA elected Tim Parker, III, the president of Parker Towing Company, to chair their board of directors in 2026. His dad, Tim Parker Jr., held the same role in 1980 and 1981, making the new leader the TCEDA's first second-generation chairman.

Parker Towing is a staple of Tuscaloosa's transportation sector and has been running coal and other cargo down the Black Warrior River since 1933.

Parker succeeds Steven Rumsey, whose term expired on December 31st.

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“I appreciate the opportunity given to me by this board to lead the Authority’s efforts in support of Tuscaloosa County’s growth and development,” said Parker. “For 50 years, our drive has been to create new jobs and opportunities for our citizens and community, and we will continue that focus trough the support of our partners, volunteers and local elected officials.”

The TCEDA primarily attracts new companies and expansions by granting tax abatements and providing property well-suited for development, and Parker said he is committed to its goal of growing Tuscaloosa County's workforce.

“Tuscaloosa County enjoys international investment, diverse business activities, and a thriving quality of life,” said Parker. “TCEDA is proud of its contributions, past and present, to the community we call home. We will continue to build on existing resources to unlock our future opportunities.” Parker added, “On a personal note, I am humbled by the chance to serve in a role that mirrors my father’s community service legacy.”

Private wealth advisor J. Jordan Plaster will serve as vice chair, and Jill S. Stork, the vice president of the Western Division for Alabama Power Company, will serve as treasurer. Justice Smyth remains executive director of the Authority and was re-elected as secretary, and Michael D. Smith, a partner with Smith and Staggs, LLP, and Authority legal counsel, was re-elected as assistant secretary.

“Since its establishment in 1975, our organization has led the movement to build and develop manufacturing investment in Tuscaloosa County,” said Smyth. “Our efforts have contributed to the growth of home-grown businesses, the location of world-class corporations, and everything in between.”

The TCEDA is best known for helping land Mercedes-Benz U.S. International in Tuscaloosa, and while it still targets prospects in the automotive industry, Smyth said its scope has broadened in recent years.

“Moving forward, we envision the addition of a technology and knowledge-based component that underscores the swell of resources available through our three institutions of higher learning-The University of Alabama, Stillman College, and Shelton State Community College,” Smyth added. “Our officers and board members represent complementary resources that will serve the Authority well as we build on our past success while introducing a new course for Tuscaloosa County.”

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