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MOBILE COUNTY COMMISSION
COMMISSIONER CONNIE HUDSON
September 2022
DISTRICT 2 NEWS & EVENTS
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CONTACT MOBILE COUNTY DISTRICT 2 COMMISSIONER CONNIE HUDSON | |
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Address:
205 Government Street
Mobile, Alabama 36644
Office Phone:
(251) 574-2000
Office Fax:
(251) 574-2001
Email:
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MESSAGE FROM COMMISSIONER HUDSON | |
Mobile County 4th Quarter Status (Part 2)
2022 Pay-As-You-Go (PayGo) Transportation Program
Citizens of Mobile County have benefitted significantly from the 45-year success story of the County’s PayGo Transportation Program. Once again, on Tuesday, November 8, 2022 citizens will be asked to decide the future of this very important program.
Distinct from the statewide constitutional amendments, the 2022 PayGo Program is listed as a “Special County Election” and is the last measure on the ballot. It is a model program in Alabama unique to Mobile County because it is accomplished without borrowed money and involves no new taxes. The funding source is a county-wide 6.5 mil ad valorem tax which was first approved by voters in 1924 and incorporated into a road and bridge capital construction and improvement program (PayGo) by the County in 1977. Every two years, voters have an opportunity to approve a specific list of road projects which are funded by the amount of PayGo revenues collected.
The 2022 proposal will ask voters to consider allocating $69 million leveraged with an additional $4.8 million in federal funding to fund county-wide projects as well as projects within each commission district and municipality. The proposed project list can be viewed by clicking here.
Over the years, PayGo projects have literally laid the foundation for growth and prosperity in Mobile County. A thriving community requires that people, goods, and services move freely and easily. PayGo has steadily financed the roadways to accommodate the ongoing increase in residential and industrial development that Mobile County has experienced over the last several decades.
Commission District 2 Park Project Highlights
Mobile County Sportsplex
Soccer Complex - The extensive rainfall we’ve experienced along with the daily usage of the three existing fields by the community, has revealed the need to implement additional field and sideline drainage measures in order to keep the fields playable during inclement weather. Drainage improvement studies are underway and work is expected to commence in December when the fields are scheduled to be closed.
Preliminary measures for ground compaction and preparation are currently underway for the Championship Field and an additional artificial turf field. Phase III design for the remaining five fields and parking lot is expected to commence in early 2023. Completion of Phase II and III is contingent on funding availability.
Aquatic Center – Design for the new indoor/outdoor aquatic center is in the final stage and is expected to be complete by the end of the year. The project, which includes a 25 yard by 25 meter indoor competition pool, an Instructional pool, restroom and locker facilities, an outdoor 50 meter pool, and parking lot will be presented in a phased approach to allow construction to go forward relative to funding availability due to the increased costs of construction materials and equipment.
Escatawpa Hollow Park and Campground
Construction delays have become a major issue in reopening the park’s first phase Day Use area as was originally planned during the Spring of this year. My sincere apologies to all who have patiently waited through these delays for the reopening. The County is trying diligently to work with the construction and project administrators at Watkins Acy Strunk Design, Inc. (WAS) to expedite the completion of Phase I which includes new restrooms, improved waterfront amenities and the expanded RV park. J Hunt Enterprises is the general contractor. Reopening for Day Use is expected to be in mid-October with the RV park opening in early 2023. Phase II design work is near completion along with work on the Master Plan for the entire park. Stay tuned for more updates!
Have a great Labor Day holiday weekend!
Connie
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On Thursday, August 4, Commissioner Hudson addressed members of the Mobile Area Association of Realtors (MAAR) providing a County update of 4th quarter highlights and an overview of Mobile County sports and recreation projects currently underway. Many thanks to the MAAR Government Affairs Committee for hosting the lunch event! Pictured with Commissioner Hudson is Stephanie White, CEO of the Mobile Area Association of Realtors (MAAR), and Chad Fincher, Chairman of the MAAR Government Relations Committee.
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Commissioner Hudson extended congratulations to the first class of the Airbus FlightPath9 Early Careers training program through Bishop State Community College on August 5. Collectively, the students earned 769 industry-recognized certifications through NC3 (National Coalition of Certification Centers) and OSHA. The 46 apprentices began their new careers with Airbus immediately upon graduation. Soar high apprentices!
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Commissioner Hudson, pictured with University of South Alabama's mascot, SouthPaw, joined in the fun and festivities at USA on August 9 for the Jag-Gals Football Social.
The event is held annually and includes a silent and live auction to help support and advance the academic achievements of USA student-athletes of all 17 sports. Commission District 2 was a sponsor of the event.
"Go Jags!"
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On Friday, August 12, Commissioner Hudson presented recently-retired Mobile Film Office Director Eva Golson with a special “Movie Mama” award highlighting Ms. Golson’s 50 years of tireless service working in economic development through Mobile’s film industry.
The award was presented at a meeting of the USS Alabama Battleship Commission.
Congratulations Eva, and best wishes on your retirement!
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Commissioner Hudson joined in the festivities celebrating the Via Health, Fitness & Enrichment Center's 50 Years of Service to Seniors in Mobile with music, food, and a silent auction on Thursday, August 18. Pictured with Commissioner Hudson and her husband, Dennis, are Bob Little and Linda Ingram. The Mobile County Commission was a sponsor of the event. Congratulations to VIA for 50 years of outstanding service!
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On Thursday, August 25, Commissioner Hudson received a Graduate Certificate from the Alabama Local Government Training Institute at the Association of County Commissions of Alabama’s (ACCA) annual convention in Orange Beach. This certificate represents 70 hours of additional study beyond the State’s requirement that each elected county commissioner complete a 50-hour educational program. Commissioner Hudson is shown pictured with Marcus Campbell, ACCA President 2021-2022.
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MOBILE COUNTY ANIMAL SHELTER
PET OF THE WEEK
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BooBoo is our Pet of the Week. This sweet boy is a 1-year-old Bulldog mix. BooBoo is neutered, up to date on vaccines, microchipped, and his adoption fee is completely sponsored!
Please stop by the Mobile County Animal Shelter (MCAS) to visit all of our adoptable pets at 7665 Howells Ferry Road. With the exception of holidays, the shelter is open Monday - Friday, 10 am - 4 pm, and Saturday, 10 am - 2 pm.
Follow MCAS on Facebook, Instagram (mcacshelter), or Twitter @mcacshelter) to receive updates about adoptable pets and upcoming events.
Click here to view current adoptable pets!
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COMMUNITY INFORMATION & EVENTS | |
Click here for more information. | |
Click here for hours of operation and additional events.
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The AFL-CIO of Southwest Alabama invites you out to their 75th annual Labor Day Parade. The parade launches and returns to the Mobile Civic Center parking lot and will travel along the streets of Downtown Mobile. | |
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA CAMPUS
LAIDLAW PERFORMING ARTS CENTER
5751 USA S Dr., Mobile, AL 36608
Tickets will be sold at the door only. Admission is $8 general and $5 for USA faculty & staff, USA students, youths under 18 and all senior citizens (cash or check only).
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For more information, contact:
Bellingrath Gardens and Home
12401 Bellingrath Gardens Road
Theodore, AL 36582
251.973.2217
[email protected]
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Opening Reception
September 9 @ 5 pm
CONDÉ-CHARLOTTE MUSEUM
104 Theatre St. Mobile, AL 36602
"Art on the Inside" is a traveling exhibit of work produced under
The Alabama Prison Arts + Education Project
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5th Annual
MOBILE ANIMATION FILM FESTIVAL
September 9, 2022 @ 6:30 pm - 10:00 pm
Alabama Contemporary Art Center
301 Conti Street
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THE WRITERS IN NATURE POETRY GROUP
OF THE MOBILE BOTANICAL GARDENS
is sponsoring a Poetry Contest
in celebration of the Father of Biodiversity,
Edward Osborne Wilson
· Theme: NATURE, in any of its manifestations.
· Length: maximum, 40 lines.
· Must be an original poem.
· No previously published or award-winning poem should be submitted.
· Only one submission per poet.
DEADLINE TO SUBMIT ENTRY: Tuesday, September 6, 2022
All submissions must be sent electronically as a Microsoft Word (doc, docx) or PDF attachment to:
[email protected]
Include your name, telephone number, email address and title of poem on cover sheet. No identifying information on the poem itself.
AWARDS
1st Place: $75.00
2nd Place: $50.00
3rd Place: $25.00
Winners will be notified by Friday, September 23, 2022, and invited to read at the Poetry by Moonlight Reading on the evening of October 6, 2022 at Mobile Botanical Gardens, 5151 Museum Drive, Mobile, AL 36608.
(Current Members of the WIN Poetry Group are not eligible to submit.)
Direct questions to [email protected]
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The Renaissance Riverview Plaza Hotel
$35 for members and $50 for non-members
The Mobile Chamber along with Forum Alabama invite you to an excellent opportunity to network with our elected officials. Hear about the work they are doing in Alabama and learn how their work can impact our community in the Mobile area. Click here for more information.
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Thursday, Sept. 15, 2022,
6:30 to 9:30 p.m.
FORT WHITING
1630 S. Broad St., Mobile, AL 36605
Join United Cerebral Palsy of Mobile for their most anticipated annual fundraiser! Enjoy cuisine samples from local restaurants, live music by the legendary Excelsior Band, wine and craft beer tastings, a silent auction, a wine pull and much more. Tickets are $50 per person or $80 for a couple. For more information visit their Facebook page by clicking here.
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Terrell James:
One Eye Sees, The Other Feels
September 16, 2022 — April 2, 2023
Wanda Sullivan:
Gardens of Hope
September 16, 2022 — April 2, 2023
3 American Artists
May 3, 2022 – May 14, 2023
Click here for more information.
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6 - 9 pm
10th Annual Mobile Arts Council Throwdown
Sponsored in Part by Mobile County Commission
Click here for tickets and more information.
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8:00 a.m.
Saturday, Sept. 17, 2022
GO Run 5K Race & 1-Mile Fun Run
Benefitting Gynecologic Cancer Research
USA Health Mitchell Cancer Institute
University of South Alabama
Beginning at the SGA Pavilion 500 Stadium Drive
Click here to register.
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Sponsored in part by Mobile County Commission District 2, Illusions is the latest in a series of in-house created exhibits by the Exploreum Science Center. Through hands on activities, informational displays, and demonstrations, this exhibit will unveil the science and mystery behind the world of Illusions.
For more information click here.
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Exploreum After Hours 21+ Event: Legally Blonde
SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 17, 2022 AT 5 PM – 9 PM
Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center
Click here for more information and tickets.
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This in-person event is open to all.
The cost to attend is $35 per person. Click here to register.
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Join the Mobile Symphony Orchestra as they open their 2022-2023 season at the Saenger Theatre at 6 Joachim Street. Ticket prices start at $20, to purchase yours and learn more click here. | |
FREE Ticket Information
From Dr. Joel Erdmann, Director of Athletics at the
University of South Alabama
In recognition of the people of Mobile County, The University of South Alabama is proud to provide complimentary Jaguar Football tickets to citizens of Mobile County in all 3 Commission districts.
If you have any questions you please call 251-461-1USA (1872) or email [email protected].
Tickets:
· Follow this link to create an account and secure your tickets.
· Use the promotional code “COUNTY2”. Customers are limited to eight tickets.
Parking:
· Follow this link to a campus parking map.
· Gold parking is complimentary and is a 10-20 minute walk to Hancock Whitney Stadium (Entry 8 & 9 off University Boulevard).
· Blue parking can be purchased for $20 and can be purchased here (Entry 6 off University Boulevard).
· Red Parking is sold out.
· There is a paid handicap parking lot with shuttle to all gates at Red Lot 201 (Entry 2 off Stadium Drive and Old Shell Road)
· Rideshare, Lyft/Uber and Taxi drop off/pick-up at Bebo's Car Wash (6377 Old Shell Road).
Gameday Information:
· Follow this link for gameday information.
We look forward to seeing you at Hancock Whitney Stadium.
Go Jags!
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Click here for more information. | |
Semmes Senior Center
9635 Moffett Road
For a calendar of September 2022 activities click here.
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Click here for more information. | |
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Text "MOBILEALERT"
to 226787
To receive Text Alerts
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Mobile County Commission Meetings on YouTube @ mobilecountyal | |
National Suicide
Prevention Hotline
Call, Text or Chat:
988
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Free Smoke Alarms
cityofmobile.org/fire
251-208-7484
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Flag Retirement Box:
205 Government Street
Government Plaza
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Click here for more information. | |
Every 2nd Wednesday
7450 Hitt Road
251-459-8426
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MOBILE COUNTY FINANCE UPDATE | |
Mobile County Commission
General Fund Budget Report Narrative
As of July 31, 2022
Revenue
July 2022 is the 10th month of the fiscal year that began October 1. The County received $141,273,968 in revenue through July 31. Revenue recorded, excluding carryover, represents 92.79% of projections for the fiscal year. Sixty-nine percent of the revenue generated during the quarter was comprised of taxes.
Expenditures
Including transfers, the County expended $129,918,113 in its General Fund during the first ten months of the fiscal year. Expenditures are 70.26% of budget projections.
Public safety expenditures comprised 50% of total expenditures, while 36% of expenditures went toward general government activities. All other expenditures encompassed the following functional areas:
- Environmental compliance
- Social services
- Education initiatives
- Cultural and recreational activities
- Capital outlay
- Transfers
Summary
The County's fund balance increased by $9,851,959 through July 31 resulting in an ending fund balance of $98,873,156. Revenue and expenditures are monitored monthly and compared to estimates. In the event a trend emerges in which revenue does not meet expectations, we will implement cost-saving measures to reduce spending.
Click here to view the report in full.
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DISTRICT 2 ROAD PROJECTS UPDATE | |
Current District 2 road projects are moving along toward completion. To view the list of ongoing projects in Mobile County Commission District 2, click here or see below: | |
UPCOMING COMMISSION MEETINGS | |
To watch the live steam,
CLICK HERE.
Commission Conference
When: Thursday, September 8, 10:00 a.m.
Where: Mobile Government Plaza Assembly Room
Commission Meeting
When: Monday, September 12, 10:00 a.m.
Where: Mobile Government Plaza Auditorium
Commission Conference
When: Thursday, September 22, 10:00 a.m.
Where: Mobile Government Plaza Assembly Room
Commission Meeting
When: Monday, September 26, 10:00 a.m.
Where: Mobile Government Plaza Auditorium
Click here for more information and to view the
agendas for the above meetings as they are posted.
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