Baldwin County approves three rezoning requests, including commercial rezoning in Locksley

The Baldwin County Commission on April 21 approved three rezoning requests heard during the meeting's public hearings.

Case Z2605 (Smith property): Staff explained the request to rezone about 1 acre north of State Highway 59 in Locksley from B2 and RA to B4 to allow major commercial uses, potentially including automotive sales. Staff said the request is consistent with criteria in the county zoning ordinance but not consistent with the county’s current future land use map; one public speaker urged caution about sidelining the future land use guide during updates. Following the public hearing, a motion to approve the rezoning carried.

Case Z2606 (Buckley property): The commission approved rezoning approximately 6.5 acres south of Gaer Road Extension in Fair Hope from RSF1 to RA to allow agricultural uses, including livestock and a satsuma orchard. Staff reported adjacent property owners supported the request and concluded the application is consistent with the future land use map and zoning factors.

Case Z2607 (Roberts property): Commissioners approved rezoning 9.5 acres west of Highway 181 to RA to permit an accessory RV‑style dwelling; staff said the proposal is somewhat consistent with ordinance factors though not with the future land use map. No speakers registered opposition at the public hearing.

Public comment and context: Tracy Gamill urged commissioners to ensure the county’s future land use map is not discounted while staff continues to refine that guide. Commissioners acknowledged the need to update the map and said staff is working on improvements.

Votes and procedure: Each rezoning was presented, opened for public comment, and approved by the commission during the April 21 meeting. Staff will proceed with implementation steps for each approved map amendment.