Friends of Baldwin met on Nov. 2 in Robertsdale.

     Rep. Steve McMillan discussed the history and present status of private sewer regulation in Baldwin County.Private sewer companies emerged ten years ago, and since then there have been several attempts to regulate them. The legislators feel the County could have done more on their part since they have authority to protect public health, but today there are virtually no standards being enforced in private sewer systems.A state wide bill passed in the last legislative session, but Rep. McMillan and Sen. Pittman decided they would prefer Baldwin not be subject to rules formulated by the Public Service Commission, and and would prefer a local bill to regulate  Baldwin Co. A bill will be introduced in the upcoming legislative session in Jan., but the support of both Baldwin Co. senators will be mandatory for it to get out of committee. Rep. McMillan stated he had not worked with Sen. Keahey, who was just elected, previously, but did not expect problems. He was asked to keep Friends of Baldwin informed on the progress of the legislation. In the meantime, the County Commission is creating a Technical Advisory Commission of nine members to adopt regulations for private sewer development. 

     Casi Callaway reported on the Stormwater Referendum, that the Education Com. is waiting for details of the plan to be completed by the Technical Com. and consultants.

     Dick Sute reported on the disappointing results of the petition to request a referendum on zoning in District 14. The County Planning Commission had estimated there are 3200 registered voters in the District, and volunteers had worked for five months and long hours to gain 516 names on the petition (10% of voters are required), only to be told by the office of Adrian Johns that there are 6700 registered  voters and the petition would be rejected.Doubt that this is a correct number was expressed by those who live in the District.Dick suggested that if the volunteers commit to work, that they should go to the next County work session and make a request for a Referendum since the County can grant a Referendum without a petition.

     The next Friends of Baldwin meeting will be on Mon., Dec.7 at Mama Lou's at noon.