Baldwin County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Baldwin County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
180-Day Development Moratorium
Commissioner Underwood asked for a five-to-six-month pause on new zoning cases while the county finishes its new master plan and future land use map. Commissioner McKenzie opposed it, and no vote was taken — but expect this fight to return as the plan nears adoption this fall.
Master plan update and new zoning standards for data centers and solar farms
The finished master plan update goes to the commission next month for a recommendation to county commissioners, followed immediately by zoning ordinance revisions — including new design standards for solar farms and data centers.
Mosquito Control
Mosquitoes are swarming Baldwin County’s Eastern Shore, and residents are fed up enough to call it a nightmare. The pressure is now on local officials to ramp up spraying and mosquito-control efforts. If you live, work, or spend time outdoors there, this is about comfort, outdoor plans, and possibly public health.
Three-acre PUD minimum and commercial open-space rules
Two cases exposed friction in county rules: commercial storage projects keep needing variances from an open-space requirement never meant for them, and the three-acre minimum for PUD-style development blocked the Roberts project. Staff acknowledged the open-space rule is a known flaw needing correction.
Golf Cart Ordinance Amendment
A Baldwin County city has amended its golf cart ordinance, so the rules for where and how you can legally drive one around town may have changed. If you use a golf cart locally, it’s worth checking the new rules before your next ride.
Municipal Term Length
Alabama added a year to mayors’ terms, but a Baldwin County mayor is saying no thanks—so local voters may see a different election timeline than the rest of the state. It’s a small but telling fight over who controls city leadership and how long they stay.
Bridge Acquisition and Toll Removal
Baldwin County drivers are getting a break: the state is buying the Foley Beach Express bridge, and the tolls go away as soon as the deal closes. That means free beach trips and one less fee for anyone heading to the coast.