By Bert Hayes

Staff Writer                

bhayes@gulfcoastnewspapers.com

  There was standing room only at Gulf Shores’ first town hall meeting. At least this was the first meeting proclaimed as “town hall.” Moderator Tom Moore at the beginning said, “This is an occasion for citizens to get acquainted with one another, so turn to your left and right and get acquainted with your neighbors.

Speakers following the introductory stage-setting by Tom Moore  dealt with very familiar topics and problems. Andy Bauer addressed the topic of Community Services, and among various topics he emphasized the growing problem of traffic congestion and what might be done to expedite and alleviate the problem. He introduced the reoccurring subject of public transportation which would be helpful daily and for special events. 

Steve Foote talked about sustainable growth. “Growth” is a prevailing subject in South Baldwin  and “sustainable” is the task

government. His remarks reflected the experience of the now famous van tour made in the spring by community development and members of City Council. They wished to see how development was being sustained and to evaluate the recovery from Hurricanes Ivan and Katrina. 

Much attention was given to the nature and focus of town meetings. Were they to be spontaneous or calendar items?

Although the focus of this first meeting was to explain how and when future meetings were to come about, a few questions and concerns came from the floor. The most interesting concern, seemingly to all present, was from a retired gentleman carrying his oxygen tank up to the microphone in order to speak. It seems his property tax assessment had recently quadrupled virtually overnight. There seemed to be universal sympathy and understanding coming from the audience in response to the property tax issue. It seems this issue is one destined to be tackled at future town hall meetings.