Jumping into this job is busier than expected, but I am enjoying the challenges more every day. I want to take a moment to give you a brief update and share with you where we are headed as a City.
Alabama Gulf Coast Recovery Council
As a member of the Council, I gathered the votes necessary to push all five projects to the crucial next step of funding consideration. More details to come.
Building and Code Enforcement
Frank Williams, Building inspector/Code Enforcement has been out and about working with citizens to maintain code compliance for safety and to help citizens with clean up in effort to make Bayou La Batre beautiful again.
City Hall
A big thank you to our new City Clerk, Marsha Barnes, for agreeing to undertake such a great responsibility, and providing great leadership to this administration.
Civic Center
Councilman George Ramires worked with Exxon to secure the donation of all paint and labor necessary to paint the Civic Center. Councilman Henry Barnes will be cooking for the volunteers.
Fire Department
Our fire department has paid and volunteer fireman who are EMS trained and prepared for emergency medical response, and is currently trying to increase quality and scope of service by creating a fire district. Thank you to Chief John Wiggins and Councilmember Kimberlyn Barbour for moving forward with this project.
Police Department
In recent weeks, the Criminal Investigation and Patrol Divisions conducted an undercover drug operation. Lead by Sgt. Michael Goodin, the operation resulted in a multitude of arrests which shows the commitment of our police department to keep our city safe.
Public Works Department
This job is not without its challenges. Under the leadership of new supervisor, Joe Parker, the employees are few but they are jumping through hurdles to get the job done.
Safe Harbor
On February 23, 2017, ownership of the property known as Safe Harbor was officially transferred from the City of Bayou La Batre to the Bayou La Batre Housing Authority. A unanimous vote completed the transition. We are grateful for a quick, peaceful, and proper resolution to this matter. We look forward to moving forward with the Housing Authority.
Utility Board
The city council and utility board are working closely to create a better Bayou La Batre. Thank you to the Utility Board for their purchase of our ad in the upcoming Fleet Blessing Book.
Budget
This is not a fun topic, but it is the most important. More on this in upcoming months. The City is moving forward paying off debt from past administrations. My long-term vision is a debt free, self-sustaining City, able to provide the quality service our citizens deserve and increasing the quality of life for the employees who serve you.
Beautification Committee
The committee has been appointed and have received many donations to begin beautifying the City.
Zirlott Park
Great efforts are being made on behalf of city officials, employees, and citizens to rebuild the baseball and football programs. Private donations have been made for football helmets, water coolers, and labor for new garbage cans. Councilmember J.C. Smith worked with County Commissioner Jerry Carl on the donation of dirt for the baseball fields, as well as money to help with light payments. Thank you to the Booster Club and Gospel Way Church for making opening day a great success.
Annual Fleet Blessing
This year’s Annual Fleet Blessing will be held May 6 and 7. Please join us for two days of food, fun, and games. Please contact St. Margaret’s Catholic Church at (251) 824-2415 for more information. The Bayou’s first Annual Fleet Blessing was held in 1949. It is a revival of an Old-World tradition. Local priests would provide blessing to the fishermen. The blessings were meant to insure a safe trip and bountiful fishing; All of which we certainly pray for ours.
Thank you
As we strive to clean up and beautify our community, I ask that you please do your part. You can help by cleaning up your yards and in front of your businesses.
Lastly, I would like to thank our community members and churches for your continued prayers for our City and leadership.
Terry Downey, Mayor
City of Bayou La Batre
Renewing Faith in Leadership
Also, don’t forget to visit the Bayou la Batre website at http://www.cityofbayoulabatre.com/