Friends of Baldwin met on July 6. The following reports were made:

 

     Chairman Dick Sute reported that a sewer bill passed in the last session of the Legislature. The Public Service Commision is tasked with regulation of the economic viability of wastewater management entities. However, if Baldwin Co. passes a local bill, it will take precedence. There is a need to maintain vigilance in the next legislative session. Casi Callaway recommemded hiring Conservation Alabama to

monitor the next session for such a bill.

 

     Dick Sute and Tom Schlinkert reported on meetings they have had with Vince Calametti of ALDOT abpout the I-10--I-65 connector. While previous plans put the connector near the Perdido River and some Forever Wild lands,it was reported that county and state officials now seem amenable to working on a more western route away from the river. Cal Markert of the County Highway

Dep't. will speak at our next meeting.

 

     Martha Crosby reported that enthusiastic volunteers were working on going door to door to obtain signatures for the petition to zone District 14(Fish River to Hwy 104).

 

     Casi Callaway gave an overview of the plans of the Education Com. for the Stormwater referendum. They plan a poll to determine how much knowledge county redisents have of Stormwater problems.Several comments were made of the importance of passing the Stormwater referendum, and it is believed Friends of Baldwin can be an effective voice in favor of the referendum.

 

     Jim Horner, Chairman of the Fairhope Environmental Advisory Commission reported on their activities. Among their many projects are a Wetlands Protection Ordinance, Park Inspection Program, Detention Ponds Study, Gully Report, Energy Audits, and Erosion and Sediment Controls (they have obtained a grant to do a 16 month study of the Fly Creek Watershed).

 

Friends of Baldwin will meet again on Monday, August 3.