Baldwin County · issues
Civic issues
Topics getting the most attention in Baldwin County public meetings, ranked by how frequently they come up.
FY 2026-27 budget nearing balance
County revenues are still growing but at a moderating pace, while population growth is driving service and infrastructure costs up faster than income. Staff are telling departments to find efficiencies as budget season kicks off, and shifting short-term project funding to the 30Q debt program.
Correction to solid waste garbage rates
County residential garbage fees jump from $17 to $19 a month starting November 1, driven by a 30% ADEM permit-fee and tipping-fee increase. McKenzie pushed for the county to lobby legislators and for more durable garbage carts.
University Scholarship for Former Commissioner Blankenship
The University of South Alabama asked the county for $10,000 toward an endowed scholarship honoring former Conservation Commissioner Blankenship. Commissioners agreed in concept to consider it at the next meeting.
County Procurement Card Program
A new purchasing card policy lets departments buy small items with a card instead of purchase orders, cutting paperwork and eventually earning rebates. A pilot program with online training starts soon.
$10 Million Disaster Line of Credit
The county adopted a $10 million revolving line of credit to cover immediate cash needs after a hurricane or major storm, staying at zero unless used. Officials called it an insurance policy against cash-flow gaps while waiting on FEMA reimbursement.
One-time retiree lump sum payments
Retired sheriff's deputies and county employees who retired before October 1, 2025 will get a one-time bonus payment in October — $34,219 for sheriff's retirees and $90,463 for commission retirees.
30 CUBED rebranding to Connecting Communities Collectively (C3)
The county wants to extend its popular cost-share road program with cities, putting up another $30 million for a $120 million total partnership. It's one tool in the funding toolbox, and cities would still bring matching projects.
ARPA spending deadline
The county has spent over $43 million in ARPA funds and has about $1.9 million and seven months left to finish water towers, courthouse HVAC, and road projects before the December 31, 2026 deadline — unspent money goes back to the treasury.
Opioid Settlement Funding Program
The commission formally adopted its opioid settlement funding program, directing how settlement dollars will be used in the county.