Alabama city approves $4.8 million deal for new Big Mike’s steakhouse location

Northport is officially bringing a new culinary player to town. The City Council voted on Thursday to approve a $4.8 million development deal that will pave the way for a Big Mike’s Steakhouse location.

A Contentious Path Forward

While the measure passed, it did not come without friction. Councilman Turnley Smith attempted to delay the vote, arguing that the public needed more time to review the details of the agreement. Though his motion earned applause from the gallery, it died on the floor for lack of a second. Smith ultimately served as the lone dissenting vote against the partnership with Sucarnoochee Investments and developer Winship.

Despite his vote, Smith clarified that he believes Big Mike’s could act as a catalyst for economic growth in the area. His primary grievance remained the legislative speed: “I do not think it was wise to release the development deal and hold a vote two days later,” Smith said. “I don’t have the time I need to sell this to the people.” Other residents expressed similar reservations during public comments, questioning the level of city financial involvement despite a general fondness for the restaurant brand.

The Project Details

The proposed 6,720-square-foot steakhouse is slated for the corner of Jemison Lane and Airport Road. Under the city-backed plan, Northport will own the building, which will then be leased back to the restaurant. The project is expected to create 35 new jobs for the city.

Financial terms of the agreement include a $4.8 million cap on building costs. To recoup the investment, the city has structured a plan involving 5% of monthly gross revenues and two-thirds of city sales tax generated at the site. Additionally, a cooperative district will implement a 2% user fee on sales. Once the debt is cleared, all future sales tax proceeds will head straight to the city treasury.

Expansion and Context

The deal includes a 20-year lease, with Big Mike’s holding an option to buy the property for $100 once that term expires. City officials noted the structure of the deal mirrors an existing incentive package utilized for a Big Mike’s location in Millbrook.

Big Mike’s continues its steady expansion across Alabama, with existing locations in Thomasville, Andalusia, Orange Beach, Millbrook, Moundville, Auburn, and Guntersville. The restaurant is projected to bring in an estimated $4.8 million in annual revenue.

This decision follows other high-profile development discussions in Northport, such as the controversial 11.73-acre University Beach project, which previously drew significant scrutiny regarding its massive scale and diverse range of proposed amenities.