Development News for Gulf Shores, Alabama

Doug Hillis Reappointed to Library Advisory Board

The council is presented with a resolution to reappoint Doug Hillis to the Library Advisory Board for a full four-year term ending May 13, 2030. His application was received and he was selected for reappointment.

City to Borrow $22.8 Million for Infrastructure Projects, South State Bank Wins Bid

The city is proposing to borrow $22.8 million for infrastructure projects. The finance committee used financial advisor Davenport and Company to solicit bids for this loan. Four bids were received, with South State submitting the winning bid at a 4.2% interest rate, beating Webster's bid of 4.5%. The volatility in the market means that delaying the decision could lead to higher rates. The recommendation is to proceed with South State's bid to lock in the current rate, which allows for refinancing if rates improve. This borrowing will fund projects including the pedestrian bridge over the intercoastal waterway and transportation projects, and will also reimburse funds already spent on a line of credit. The approval is expected next week, with closing on June 11th.

City Ordinances Amended to Reflect Employee Handbook as Primary Governing Document

The Human Resources department is requesting to amend the code of ordinances adopted in 1989, specifically Chapter 18. Articles 1 through 3 will be repealed and replaced with a new Article 1, titled "Personnel and Employee Handbook." This change signifies that the employee handbook will now govern the employer-employee relationship, superseding the previous role of the Personnel Board. The council adopted the handbook on May 26, 2026. Administration of policies will now fall to the mayor, city administrator, HR director, department heads, and other supervisory staff. Concerns were raised about abolishing the Personnel Board without their prior contact and the implications for civilian oversight.

Concerns Raised Over Parkway Litter and Beach Express One-Way Traffic Impacting Access and Emergency Response

The city is experiencing increased litter along Alabama Beach Parkway, raising concerns about first impressions for visitors. Mr. D'Alberto raised concerns about who will be responsible for cleaning the state highway, as state and county efforts have not been effective. He also highlighted a significant issue regarding access to his property and emergency response times due to the one-way traffic on the Beach Express, which resulted from a new bridge construction. He requests the city address the state to reopen Creek Road or provide a gravel road alternative, as the current situation makes emergency response times longer. Council members expressed agreement that the one-way traffic is problematic and challenges egress from the island. They noted that current state and federal administration are not receptive to discussions, but they plan to engage with potential future leadership. They acknowledge the difficulty in making changes until new officials are in place after November.