Orange Beach to reject Rosemary Dunes Cabins construction bids

John Mullen • November 6, 2023

City prioritizes budget for Community Development

Orange Beach City Council

Orange Beach, Ala. – (OBA) – During a work session on Tuesday, Nov. 7th, the Orange Beach City Council will discuss the budget for the 2024 fiscal year. Orange Beach and Gulf Shores both use the calendar year as the fiscal year for the cities.


The council will meet at 5 p.m. in council chambers in a joint work/regular session.


The 2024 budget projects $66.4 million in revenues from a variety of taxes or $5 million more than projected in the 2022 budget.


Amounts budgeted for departments include:


  • $9.4 million for the fire department
  • $8.7 million for the police department
  • $5.6 million for Administration
  • $4.5 million for the sewer department
  • $3.5 million for the refuse department
  • $3.3 million for the Street Department
  • $2.7 million for Coastal Resources
  • $2.5 million for Expect Excellence
  • $2.5 million for Parks and Recreation
  • $2.2 million for landscaping
  • $1.5 million for Community Development
  • $1.2 million for Finance
  • $1.2 million for the Sportsplex
  • $1.1 million for the recreation center and tennis center
  • $1 million for the Art Department


The council will consider a resolution to approve the budget including the transfer of special revenue funds to the general fund for special revenue fund projects.


During the regular session, the council will discuss:

  • Rejecting all bids for the construction of the Rosemary Dunes Cabins planned for the Rosemary Dunes trailhead. Four bidders were Black Diamond Construction for $395,100, MD Thomas Construction for $685,000, Phil Harris Construction for $595,450 and Rolin Construction for $630,000. According to the agenda, the Coastal Resources Department has decided not to build the cabins.
  • Approving purchases made in the month of October for $1.2 million.
  • Awarding the bid for the interior build out of the Wildlife Center and Trail Maintenance Shop for $720,000 to Rolin Construction. RESTORE Act funding will pay for $624,450 of the cost.
  • Awarding the bid for a field house for the high school softball and baseball teams to Rolin Construction for $1.8 million.
  • Awarding the bid for a blower package for the Utilities Department to Jim House & Associates in the amount of $178,200.                     
  • Approving a contract with Lexipol to update the Orange Beach Fire Department’s policy manual for $41,490.
  • Authorizing the purchase of a fortified lifeguard tower from Bausch Enterprises for $88,810 to be used on the east side of Perdido Pass.
  • A contract with Garner C. Tampary Memorial Foundation for the “Merry Memories Tinsel Trail” event during the holiday season at Waterfront Park and the Coastal Arts Center of Orange Beach.
  • A resolution authorizing the purchase of an ambulance for the fire department through the H-GAC purchasing cooperative from Southern Emergency Consultants in the amount of $405,954.
  • Allowing an ordinance change in The Wharf’s planned unit development to allow for the building of a Culver’s Restaurant on the northwest corner of Canal Road and Wharf Parkway East.


During the work session, the council will discuss:


  • A resolution authorizing an intergovernmental agreement with the South Alabama Purchasing Association.
  • A resolution authorizing an amended implementation agreement with the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources for the Coastal Alabama Sea Turtle Triage Restoration Project. This amendment will make the project cost $860,000 by adding $80,000 for contingencies, according to the agenda.
  • A resolution establishing a schedule of dates for the Municipal Court dates for 2024. Court will be in session every second Wednesday and fourth Tuesday of each month.
  • A Resolution declaring certain personal property owned by the City of Orange Beach as surplus and unneeded and authorizing the Mayor and City Clerk to dispose of such property. The lot includes seven vehicles and two wave runners.
  • Authorizing a change order with R&B Contracting Company, Inc., for the sewer force main from Canal Road to CR-12 Project in an amount not to exceed $80,722.
  • A resolution authorizing an employee assistance program agreement with New Directions Behavioral Health.
  • A resolution authorizing a mutual aid agreement with MedStar EMS, for the Fire Department.

Share this article w/ Friends...

Foley Police Cruiser
By OBA Staff June 9, 2025
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — The Foley Police Department is investigating a burglary that happened overnight at the Tanger Outlet Mall. An employee at Zales Outlet called the police around 8:30 a.m. Monday. They reported that jewelry had been stolen during the night. The value of the stolen items has not been released.
Mini Golf Planned for Bubba’s Seafood House Property
By John Mullen June 9, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A group of four people is planning a new mini-golf course at the site of longtime Bubba’s Seafood House on beach road. John Pilcher, Jody Pilcher, Mary Pilcher and Emmie Pilcher Flowers are making the request. According to Baldwin County tax records, the group owns six parcels fronting the road east of Fat Daddy’s. They will request changes to a previously submitted site plan.
Orange Beach Sportsplex
By OBA Staff June 9, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Registration is now open for this year’s Little Mako Summer Camps in Orange Beach. Each camp offers a chance for kids to learn, practice, and enjoy sports alongside Mako coaches and players. The camps are open to beginners and those looking to elevate their skills. Activities include tennis, baseball, soccer, and cross-country.
Things to do on the Gulf Coast this week.
By Jessica A. Taylor June 9, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — As summer heats up along the Alabama Gulf Coast, the week ahead offers a full schedule of activities for locals and visitors alike. From aerial tours and live performances to educational programs, food festivals, and community clean-ups, there's something happening every day across the region. Whether you're seeking adventure, a learning opportunity, or a moment of quiet reflection by the water, the coast continues to deliver diverse experiences for all ages.
Second Straight Month of Falling Home Prices in Baldwin
By OBA Staff June 8, 2025
Robertsdale, Ala. — (OBA) — Baldwin County home prices dropped for the second month in a row, according to the latest data from Baldwin REALTORS®. Both residential and resort markets saw lower average prices compared to last year. Homes also stayed on the market longer. Fewer properties were sold in some areas.
Free Mental Wellness Platform Now Available for All Alabamians
By OBA Staff June 8, 2025
A new online tool is now available to help Alabamians improve their mental wellness. CredibleMind, a free digital platform, offers personalized self-care resources to anyone in the state. It aims to close the gap between those seeking help and the shortage of mental health professionals. The program is completely anonymous, easy to use, and available right away.
LuLu Gribbin with Governor Ivey during the signing of LuLu's Law
By Jessica A. Taylor June 7, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — On the eve of the one-year anniversary of Lulu Gribbin's nearly fatal shark attack, I could hear children laughing and playing with their family pets in the background, negotiating who gets to toss the ball next. “Are you done with your noodles” cried out the father, Dr. Ryan Forbess of Orange Beach, Alabama. Apologizing for the noise and distractions, he explained, “We are packing up to head out in the morning—back to the same place, actually.”
Orange Beach High School Star Gains Attention at University of Alabama
By OBA Staff June 7, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Orange Beach High School freshman Lee Steele is starting to make waves in the basketball world. The 6-foot-6 player had a standout day during a visit to The University of Alabama. His skills and work ethic caught the attention of head coach Nate Oats and his coaching staff. Observers say Steele is playing his best basketball yet.
Gulf State Park to Host Three-Day Shark Fest Event
By OBA Staff June 7, 2025
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Gulf Shores will once again host Shark Fest, a popular summer event focused on marine life. The event takes place at Gulf State Park’s Saltwater Pier and offers hands-on activities for all ages. Guests will learn about Gulf Coast sharks through interactive exhibits, expert presentations, and up-close encounters. This year’s event promises more excitement, learning, and family-friendly fun.
Expect Excellence Brings Rock Hits to the Stage
By OBA Staff June 7, 2025
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A high-energy rock show is returning to Orange Beach this summer. The Expect Excellence Music Department will perform “Dream On – A Tribute to Classic Rock” for three nights, June 26 through 28, at the Orange Beach Performing Arts Center.
Show More