News and Events for District 2 - Connie Hudson, County Commissioner

October, 10 2011 

District News and Events 
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MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER CONNIE HUDSON      

     

October 1, 2011 began a new budget year for the Mobile County Commission and all Mobile County agencies that fall within the Commission's budgetary authority. According to Mobile County Finance Director, Michelle Herman, "general fund expenditures have exceeded general fund revenues every year from the start of the 'great recession' in FY2008 to FY2011." The Commission has relied on the reserve fund balance to fill the gap since that time. In July of this year, the Standard and Poor rating agency downgraded the Mobile County Commission's bond rating from AA to AA- and changed the outlook from stable to negative. This was due to the County's continued reliance on reserves.  

 

The FY2012 budget reflects the Commission's committed effort to be fiscally prudent by bringing expenditures in line with expected revenues while discontinuing the reliance on reserves to balance the budget. The FY2012 budget reflects a 5% cut in operational budgets. a 6.5% cut in (overall departmental) personnel budgets and a 20-25% cut in non-mandated appropriations. 


The continued cooperation and support of all Mobile County elected officials, department heads, employees and community partners is paramount in helping us to achieve our budget goals, protect our long-term financial stability, and continue to provide services, maintain our infrastructure, and promote job growth in Mobile County. The County Commission will provide monthly reports at Commission meetings on our budget status in achieving our budgetary goals. 

In the coming weeks, the Mobile County Commission will also embark on a long-term strategic planning process to continue to streamline overall costs and increase operational efficiency.

To view the County's FY2012 budget, Click Here

 

CH at Veterans Cemetary Groundbreaking
Attending the October 7, 2011 Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Alabama State Veterans Memorial Cemetery are from L to R: Mr. Chris Booth, Dr. Barry Booth, Commissioner Connie Hudson, Baldwin County Commissioner Tucker Dorsey, and Dr. John Deloney, a World War II Veteran.
Please forward this e-newsletter to your family, friends and neighbors.

BICYCLE AND PEDESTRIAN PLAN PUBLIC MEETINGS  

The Mobile Metropolitan Planning Organization (MPO) is developing a comprehensive plan to address bicycle and pedestrian accessibility in the Mobile Area. These public meetings are the final of a series of public meetings hosted by the MPO, designed to solicit ideas and concerns from the public regarding bicycle and pedestrian needs. The public is invited to review the final draft of the Mobile County Bicentennial Bicycle & Pedestrian Comprehensive Plan. The goal is to develop a plan that addresses the needs of cyclists and pedestrians. Please take time to attend one of these meetings to let the MPO know what you think.

 

When:11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 12th  

Where: Government Plaza Multi-Purpose Room, 205 Government Street, Mobile

 

When: 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, October 12th   

Where: Mobile Botanical Gardens Botanical Center, 5151 Museum Drive, Mobile

 

For more information call 433-6541 and ask for a transportation planner at the South Alabama Regional Planning Commission or email [email protected]


MOBILE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT OFFERS FREE BREAST EXAMS DURING OCTOBER

In recognition of October as National Breast Cancer Awareness Month, nurse practitioners at the Mobile County Health Department's Women's Center will be offering free clinical breast examinations from 8 a.m. until noon each Friday during the month.

 

 The nurse practitioners will conduct examinations for women ages 40-64 and for women under 40 if they are experiencing breast problems. Vouchers for free mammograms will be available for participants who meet certain requirements. The center is located at 248 CoxSt., Mobile. 

 

For more information, call 690-8886.



DISTRICT 2 ROAD PROJECTS UPDATE

 

District 2 road projects are moving along toward completion. Please Click Here to view a complete list of ongoing road projects in Mobile County Commission District 2. 

 

DISTRICT 2 ALDOT AND CITY OF MOBILE PROJECTS UPDATE 

 

*Zeigler Blvd. (Forest Hill Road to Athey Road and Schillinger Road to Cody Road ALDOT and City of Mobile Project) Currently awaiting state environmental approval. Delay caused by the addition of bike lanes to the project's design. Bid opening dates: Forest Hill to Athey 9/28/11, Schillinger to Cody 6/27/14. 

 

*Highway 158 extension- ALDOT project efforts are now focused on completing the design for the remaining four miles. Anticipating design completion in mid-to late-2012. Once construction resumes (based on availability of federal funds) ALDOT estimates three to five years to complete the remaining phases before the roadway is open. 

 

Road projects in the city limits of Mobile, paid for through the Mobile County Pay-As-You-Go Program are in progress, according to Nick Amberger, City of Mobile Engineer. Please contact the City of Mobile Engineering office for updates on these projects at 208-7457. Please Click Here to view a complete list of the streets within the city limits of Mobile that are included in the PAYGO program using Mobile County PAYGO funding.

MOBILE AREA CRIMESTOPPERS ASSISTING LOCAL LAW ENFORCEMENT AGENCIES

CrimeStoppers 

The Mobile Area CrimeStoppers organization assists local law enforcement agencies by providing a method to persons who have knowledge of a crime or the location of a fugitive to report that information, but remain anonymous and also potentially receive a cash reward.

 

Mobile Area CrimeStoppers is affiliated with the national CrimeStoppers USA organization. It is a nonprofit charitable organization that was first incorporated in Mobile County in 1989. Its focus to date has been in assisting  Mobile County law enforcement agencies. Future plans involve expansion of CrimeStoppers to service seven counties in southwest Alabama. The local CrimeStoppers outfit is managed by an all-volunteer Board of Directors. 

 

A person who has knowledge of a criminal offense, can provide the identity of the perpetrator, or information that will assist in identifying the offender, or can provide the location of a fugitive by calling 208-7000. This phone number is manned twenty-four hours a day by the Mobile Police Department. Callers are not asked to identify themselves in any way. No effort is made to trace the call or attempt to identify the caller. The first tip on a particular crime or fugitive is eligible for a reward.

 

The tip information is transmitted to the appropriate city, county, state, or federal law enforcement agency for handling and that agency is requested to provide feedback to the CrimeStoppers organization as to the value of the tip, whether it results in arrests or the solutions of crimes, etc. 

 

The system has resulted in the apprehension of hundreds of offenders. The crimes solved have run the spectrum of criminal activity from theft of property to murder. There is little doubt that numbers of offenders would not have been apprehended but for the CrimeStoppers tip system and reward payments. It provides a proven method for persons who do not wish to be identified to provide information and potentially receive a cash reward for the information.  

 

Any individual or company wishing to support the non-profit CrimeStoppers effort may send donations (checks only) to CrimeStoppers, 2407 Airport Boulevard, Mobile, Alabama 36606; or for more information, contact David Evans, Sr., President of the Board of Directors, at 973-1051.


DISTRICT TWO FALL CALENDAR

 

PENELOPE HOUSE: OCTOBER IS DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AWARENESS MONTH

 

Penelope House is "Painting the Town Purple" in October to commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month. Many activities are planned to bring awareness to the crime of domestic violence, to let victims know that help is available through Penelope House, and to acknowledge our gratitude to law enforcement for providing safety to those in need. The mission of Penelope House is to provide safety, protection, and support to victims of domestic violence and their children through the provision of shelter, advocacy, and individual and community education.

 

To view a calender of events for Domestic Violence Awareness Month Click Here or call 342-2809. 

 

BROWN BAG IN BIENVILLE   

  

When: 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Wednesdays through October 26    

Where: Bienville Square, Downtown Mobile 

 

Bring your blanket and bagged lunch and enjoy free entertainment featuring local and regional artists playing a mix of blues, pop and jazz.   


MARKET ON THE SQUARE
Market on the Sqaure
When: 8 a.m. to noon Saturdays through November 19
Where: Bienville Square, Downtown Mobile

Locally grown produce, seafood, beef, honeys, breads, pastas, cheese, plants, handcrafted goods for kitchen and home, live music, and other activities.

 

LODA ARTWALK

                  

When: 6 p.m. to 9 p.m. 2nd Friday of every month
Where: Cathedral Square Arts District, Downtown Mobile 

With the LoDa ArtWalk in its 5th year, the event seems to be getting better each month. Join downtown art galleries, institutions, studios and unique shops as they open their doors and welcome you inside to see beautiful artwork, sample delicious foods and hear the sounds of the LoDa Artwalk.

For more information on the events above Click Here to view the City of Mobile Neighborhood and Community Services website or call 208-7443.

 

CHUNCHULA HOME DEMONSTRATION CLUB YARD SALE  

                

When: 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Friday, October 14

Where: Historic Chunchula Schoolhouse, 11076 Rudolph Gallasch Road, Chunchula 

 

This event, sponsored by the Chunchula Home Demonstration Club features a yard sale, baked goods sale, hot dogs, and BBQ sandwiches as well as tours of the historic schoolhouse. All proceeds benefit the schoolhouse. 

 

For more information call 442-3494.

  

4TH ANNUAL DOWN SYNDROME SOCIETY OF MOBILE COUNTY BUDDY WALK   

             Buddy Walk 2011 

When: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, October 15 

Where: Hank Aaron Stadium, 755 Bolling Brothers Boulevard, Mobile

 
The Down Syndrome Society of Mobile County will celebrate its annual Buddy Walk� to celebrate Down Syndrome Awareness Month and to promote the acceptance and inclusion of individuals with Down Syndrome in our community. The Buddy Walk is a one-mile walk and heart-warming event that celebrates the many abilities and accomplishments of people with Down syndrome.  

 

To register on-line Click Here or for more information contact Dora Harding at 342-3122 or Click Here.  


KANGAROO KRAZE AT THE EXPLOREUM

When: October 15 through January 2, 2012
Where: Gulf Coast Exploreum, Downtown Mobile

 

Kangaroo Kraze features live kangaroos, wallaroos, wallabies, baby joeys and more, and teaches audiences about the Australian Outback. Trainers Carolyn Lantz and Heather Shosho will be on site to inform the general public and school groups about the behaviors of the animals and life in Australia. The trainers will also showcase different "animal ambassadors" throughout the day so Exploreum visitors can pet and truly see how unique the animals are. Guests will also have an opportunity to take pictures with some of the animals.

 

Cost: Admission prices for Kangaroo Kraze and permanent exhibits are $14 adults, $12.50 youth and seniors and $12 children.

 

For exhibit hours and more information call 208-6873 or Click Here.  

 

CITY OF SEMMES COUNCIL MEETING

 

When: 7:30 p.m. Thursday, October 20 

Where: Semmes First Baptist Church , Fellowship Hall, 4070 Wulff Road, Semmes

 

The Council meetings will no longer be held at Semmes First Baptist after the month of October. Future locations TBA. Also, the Council and Mayor have

established a planning commission and are currently working on their subdivision regulations. The Planning Commission Committee meets at 7 p.m. on the 4th Tuesday of every month at Semmes First Baptist Church.

 

For more information on the City of Semmes Click Here or call their offices at 689-8811.

 

57th ANNUAL GREATER GULF STATE FAIR

When: Weekdays 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. and weekends noon to 10 p.m. October 21 through October 30

Where: Gulf State Fairgrounds, 1035 North Cody Road, Mobile 

 

The 10-day agriculture fair features local and professional food concessionaires as well as commercial and community exhibitors. The grandstand shines the spotlight on local music artists for everyone's listening pleasure. The carnival rides and games will leave everyone young and old feeling like a kid again!  

 

For more information Click Here to visit an informational website. 

 

2011 CYSTIC FIBROSIS CLIMB FOR LIFE

When: 7 a.m. to noon Saturday, October 23
Where: RSA Tower, Downtown Mobile 
 


Join the Cystic Fibrosis Foundation as they climb 34 stories to the top of the tallest building in Alabama- the RSA Battle House Tower- as they raise awareness for cystic fibrosis.

For more information or to register please Click Here or call the local chapter office at 436-0015.


TENNIS FOR TATAS

When:
1 p.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday, October 23
Where: Mobile Tennis Center, 851 Gaillard Drive, Mobile

Tennis for Tatas will be hosting its second annual charity tennis tournament to benefit breast cancer research at the University of South Alabama Mitchell Cancer Institute.

To register as a player for this event Click Here or to sponsor this event Click Here. 

7TH ANNUAL WOOFSTOCK
Woofstock2011

When: 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, October 23
Where: Bienville Square, Downtown Mobile

 

People and their pets are invited to participate in this fun event that features a pet costume contest, wiener dog races, pet adoptions, live bands, food, drink and good times for all walks of life and benefits the Animal Rescue Foundation, a non-profit animal rescue organization that adopts and houses abandoned or abused dogs and cats.  

 

Cost: Tickets $10 adults and $5 Children 12 and under. 

 

For more information or to support this years event through volunteering or a sponsorship Click Here or call 680-9577.

 

TASTE OF MOBILE 

   

When: 6:30 p.m. to 10 p.m. Saturday, October 27
Where: Arthur Outlaw Convention Center, Downtown Mobile

An exhibition of fine cuisine unique to Mobile and the Gulf Coast sponsored by the Alabama Restaurant Association and other area businesses, showcases area restaurants and caterers and brings Mobilians together for a sampling of hospitality, spirits and culinary delights. This year, with over 40 booths participating, attendees will have the opportunity to sample some of the finest cuisine the area has to offer and participate in a silent auction, door prize drawings, entertainment and more. All proceeds will benefit Goodwill Easter Seals.

Cost: Tickets $25, VIP tickets $35, available at Mobile Fixture-Wintzell's Oyster House-Goodwill Easter Seals and Mobile Bay Harley-Davidson, Inc.

For more information Click Here to view their facebook page or call 471-1581.

7TH ANNUAL CARDBOARD CITY TO BENEFIT PROGRAMS FOR THE HOMELESS 

When:
4 p.m. Saturday, October 29 to 8 a.m. Sunday, October 30
Where: Alabama School of Math and Science's Lot on Dauphin and Ann Street, Mobile

Come spend the night in Cardboard City to raise funds that benefit local homeless shelters and support services. A simple meal and entertainment is provided. Visitors are welcome until 10 p.m.

Cost: All overnight participants must raise $100 per cardboard box in sponsorships, up to two people or a family with small children per box.

For more information on this event and the services provided by the Dumas Wesley Community Center Click Here or call 441-1991.

 

GREEK FEST

 

When: 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. November 3 through November 5
Where: Annunciation Greek Orthodox Church, Mobile

A celebration of the Greek culture featuring authentic Greek fare, dancing, a Greek market and more.  

 

Cost: $2 per person. Admission benefits the Alabama School of Math and Science, Bay Area Food Bank, Penelope's House and Woody's Song. 

 

For more information call 251-438-9888 or Click Here.   

 

For additional information on City of Mobile calendar events, please Click Here.    

 


SPOTLIGHT ON COUNTY SERVICES

Each edition of the District 2 E-Newsletter will highlight an area of service, service agency, or a county service that is funded by the Mobile County Commission.

 

MOBILE COUNTY HEALTH DEPARTMENT     

 

The purpose of the Mobile County Health Department is to provide caring, high-quality and professional services for the improvement and protection of the public health through disease prevention and the assurance of public health services to resident and transient populations of the state regardless of social circumstances or the ability to pay.

 

The Health Department works closely with the community to preserve and protect the public health, to provide caring, quality services and serve the people of Mobile County by assuring conditions in which they can be healthy. Alabama law designates the  Board of Health as an advisory board to the county in all medical matters, matters of sanitation and public health.

  

The Mobile County Health Department has seven clinic locations to serve you. Services at the clinics include but are not limited to:

  • Adolescent Health
  • Adult Health
  • Child Health
  • Children's Dental Services
  • HIV/AIDS & STD Treatment
  • Immunization Services
  • Optometry
  • Pharmacy
  • Tuberculosis Screening
  • Family Planning
  • WIC  
Click Here to view various clinic locations, hours, and services.

 

For more information on your County Health Department and the services available Click Here to visit their website or call 690-8158. 

KUDOS AND CONGRATULATIONS!  


Partners for Environmental Progress (PEP) was recently awarded the Gulf Guardian Award, for its efforts to recycle waste into useful products, for 2011 in the Business Category. The By-Product Synergy Central Gulf Coast (BPS CGC) project in Mobile was cited for realizing significant environmental impacts and bringing economic value to companies. PEP formed a diverse network of 12 companies to actively seek opportunities to turn company waste or by-product into raw materials for another. The project creates a system in which regional businesses can constantly network and systematically review opportunities to reduce their environmental footprint. The 12 companies who participated in Phase I are: Alabama Power, Arkema, BASF, DuPont, Evonik Degussa, ExxonMobil, Huntsman Advanced Materials, Mitsubishi Polysilicon, Oil Recovery, Southern Ionics, University of South Alabama and Veolia Environmental Services.


 
Connie Hudson, Distric 2 County Commissioner; district2web@mobile-county.net  Office: (251) 574-2000

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