MAGNOLIA SPRINGS — Tensions between Magnolia Springs’ mayor and Town Council seemed to continue during last week’s Town Hall meeting, even in the explanation for the event.

Mayor Ken Underwood told the more than 60 attendees at Magnolia Springs Community Hall Thursday night that the meeting’s purpose was to provide residents with information. However, he added that Town Council members did not favor the event.

“We didn’t know about it,” Councilwoman Dotty Johnson countered, adding that Underwood had scheduled the town’s first such meeting since its incorporation without notifying the council members.

The tense tone for the evening began when Councilman Jim May, who had been tapped by the council to make a statement at the start of the night, clarifying that the council did not intend to eliminate public access to water. In tandem with the explanation, he referenced 19th century maps of the area with such outlets and early 29th century maps without them. May also pointed out that these maps and additional information are on file with the county and admonished attendees to research the issue.

“Do your own homework,” he said.

May added that rumors about such an action were circulated throughout Magnolia Springs by Msgnolia Springs resident Rodney Koberg in a leaflet called “The River Squawk.”

“You’ve been told things about us that have no basis in fact,” the councilman said. “No sources of the information are cited.”

As May continued his speech, Mayor Ken Underwood interrupted. Then the two exchanged words. Underwood attempted to move forward with the evening’s agenda. However, an audience member simultaneously asked May to introduce the council and May talked over Underwood in the introductions.

Underwood also addressed the council’s communication with residents, which he said needed improving. However, David Lawrence said in a council meeting earlier this year, Underwood said communication with the public was fine.

“No,” Underwood said.

“No?!” Lawrence replied.

The meeting lasted three-and-a-half hours and included a recap and explanation of projects the council has worked on, including the Magnolia Landing project, adding sidewalks in the town, speed reduction in the town and ideas for the old Magnolia School property should the town acquire it from the Baldwin County School System.