LOXLEY, Alabama — The Loxley Town Council passed an ordinance regarding rental/lease of tangible personal property that will be assessed at 2 percent inside the town limits and 1 percent in the police jurisdiction.

 “Alatax has been collecting this tax, and we didn’t even have an ordinance until tonight,” said Mayor Billy Middleton. “If someone feels they have already paid this tax prior to tonight, we invite them to come by Town Hall for a reimbursement.”

Middleton said the town had received the money from Alatax that had been collected.

 “It didn’t come to a lot of money,” he said, “but we didn’t want to appear to be covering up something like this. That’s why we’re inviting those who may have paid this tax before tonight’s ordinance was passed to come by and check on a reimbursement.”

DeWayne Hays of Sweat Tires approached the council regarding his signage at the north end of town.

 “I would appreciate some help in figuring out what I can do in regards to a sign, and where it can be placed,” he said. “I took an old building that was falling apart and dropped quite a bit of money into it to bring it back so that the town can add another business. I’m not trying to create problems, as I grew up here and want to be the best business citizen I can.”

Town Attorney Shawn Alves suggested that Hays get with a business architect.

“I’ve hired Todd Stuart to help me,” he said.

“Todd’s a good one,” Alves said. “He knows the ins and outs of the sign ordinances.”

Middleton suggested that Hays keep his current signs until July 1.

“Will this give you and Todd enough time to come into compliance with the town’s sign ordinances?” he asked.

“I believe it will,” Hays answered. Hays went on to say that he had closed his Mobile store in an effort to concentrate on Baldwin County.

Following approval of the minutes, and the payment of the bills, the council agreed to finance three new police cars, which should arrive by Thursday, through United Bank.

The council then approved a $250 donation to Central Baldwin Middle School to help with expenses for an FCCLA trip.

In keeping with past tax-free days, the council approved a Back-to-School tax free day. The date for this tax-free holiday will be announced at a later meeting.

The council also agreed to purchase a garbage truck from the City of Robertsdale for $7,000.

A budget hearing will be held following the next meeting of the council on July 8, at the Loxley Town Hall.