Local Focal: Ashley Jones Davis, Exectutive Director of the North Baldwin Chamber of Commerce

Editors Note: Every week, we’ll be bringing you brief question and answer sessions from Baldwin County citizens just like you, as we remember and celebrate our county’s past, present and future.

1. What is one of your favorite things about the area?

Bay Minette is my home, and always will be. North Baldwin County is a quiet, serene place that is dotted with small communities and Bay Minette is the only municipality in our area. The small communities are just that -- small, quaint and charming! We live in an area of the county like no other and my favorite part about North Baldwin County is that in these small communities you will find the nicest, proudest and hardest working people you will ever meet. On top of the family friendly, community oriented environment, we live in the greatest place in state -- Coastal Alabama! While we live, work and play in our small town we are a mere hop, skip and a jump away from all of the other wonderful amenities offered in our region --From the Tensaw Delta here in our neck of the woods (which is rich in history and an ideal playground for any outdoorsman or adventure seeker) to Mobile Bay and our Beautiful Alabama Beaches. I tell people who are looking to relocate to our area that if you are looking for a great place to raise a family or retire but want access to the City of Mobile or to the Gulf Shores beaches that Bay Minette is close enough to the hustle and bustle that surrounds us, but far enough away to relax and enjoy life at your own pace.

2. What can you notice has changed about the area since you moved here?

My family moved to Bay Minette when I was 2 years old, so my parents were transplants, but I was raised here. That being said, I've seen Bay Minette grow my entire life-- I can remember when we had a KMart, when the 'new' high school was being built and the day Walmart opened it's doors. Like any typical teenager though, when I turned 18 I could not wait to leave home, so I did. I spent five years in Auburn and returned to Baldwin County in 2008. It wasn't until I came to work for the chamber in 2012 that I truly returned home to Bay Minette, and that was the best decision I have made. It's amazing how after being absent for so long you can return home and see it in a completely different light. So much had changed, and so much hadn't changed, but I had an entirely different appreciation for my home town. I work everyday for our business members and the citizens in North Baldwin -- to grow our economy, to grow our community and also to preserve our history and identity. 

3. Where do you see the area headed in the next 5 years? 10 years?

Bay Minette is poised for growth over the next five to ten years. North Baldwin County is growing and the Chamber alongside the City of Bay Minette and our Economic Development partners are actively pursuing new business and industry. We are fortunate to have a 3,000 acre megasite just north of Bay Minette that is anticipated to bring major industry to our area in the near future. 

As we continue to grow, no matter which direction we go, one thing is certain, and that is that alongside the hustle and bustle of a growing economy you will find the natural wonders of North Baldwin County with well-planned communities that have small town charm and a relaxing atmosphere. The citizens and elected officials of our communities pride themselves on maintaining a balance between both positive progress and environmental preservation. In North Baldwin County you will find a deep sense of culture, friendly neighborhoods, a rich history, a dedicated government and an abundance of outdoor recreational opportunities.