BAY MINETTE, Ala. — The Baldwin County Commission on July 19 approved the grant-funded purchase of a two-story, portable observation platform which the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office and municipalities will use for security and crowd control at events throughout the countyat concerts, fairs and other crowd-drawing events throughout the county.

The Commission action will utilize a $90,000 grant from the state Department of Homeland Security for the purchase.

During a work session earlier this month, Sheriff Huey “Hoss” Mack told commissioners the "Sky Watch" portable observation deck will be used for crowd management and parking lot security.

Mack said the unit, which can be transported and set up by one person, has climate controls, tinted windows, flood lights and can operate on shore or generator power.

“We plan to use it throughout the county and also make it available to all municipalities,” Mack told commissioners. “The only other one around is in Mobile and not always available.”