Smart Policing Upgrade Proposed at Tonight’s Orange Beach City Council Meeting
OBA Staff • June 17, 2025
Tonight’s meeting to discuss elections, budgets, and block party
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — In tonight’s Orange Beach Committee of the Whole meeting, council members plan to discuss the resolution to purchase of a license plate recognition (LPR) system for the Police Department. The proposed $81,000 investment in a Flock Group, Inc. system highlights a shift toward smart policing and public safety enhancements in Orange Beach. These LPR cameras can automatically scan and log vehicle plates, aiding in crime prevention, stolen vehicle recovery, and identifying Amber Alerts.
Tonight’s Orange Beach City Council Meeting will take place at 5pm at the Council Chambers at City Hall.
The remainder of the meeting items include:
- City Council Regular Meeting items:
- Honoring the Sons and Daughters of the American Revolution for the U.S. Army’s 250th anniversary and Battle of Bunker Hill
- Finalizing fees and operational policies for the Orange Beach Shooting Complex
- Approval of the 2023 audited financial statements
- Board appointment for the Construction Board of Adjustment and Appeals
- Use of opioid settlement funds to purchase AEDs for the Fire Department ($287,604.25)
- Granting franchise to BCC Waste Solutions, LLC
- Fee waiver for Coastal Art Center at a Shooting Team event
- Amendment to the contract with Tennis Pro Natalie van Blerk
- Donation to the Alabama District Attorneys Association
- Public hearing: Ordinance amendment for Oasis at Orange Beach PUD signage (Case No. 0607‑PUDA‑25)
- Committee of the Whole proposals:
- FY 2025 budget amendment
- Appointment of the City Clerk to prepare the voter list for the August 26, 2025 municipal election
- Appointment of election officers for that same election
- $25,000 appropriation to the Coastal Alabama Business Chamber
- $61,604.23 allocated for emergency equipment for police vehicles
- Entertainment contract with The Funky Lampshades for a block party
- Service agreement with NeoGov for HR/payroll/benefits systems
- Master services agreement with OpenGov, Inc. for cloud software
- Scheduling a public hearing on the Keel RV Storage Third Addition (Case No. 0603‑CU‑25), likely set for July 15, 2025
Share this article w/ Friends...
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — The Alabama Department of Transportation (ALDOT) will temporarily close part of Canal Road between Orange Beach and Gulf Shores to install steel bridge girders for the new Intracoastal Waterway Bridge. This work is part of a larger project to improve traffic flow and safety in the area. The temporary closure is needed to keep drivers and workers safe while the girders are placed. ALDOT says the project is moving forward as planned.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Teens in Orange Beach are getting life skills along with their summer jobs this year. The city’s summer youth work program hosted a Lunch and Learn at the Orange Beach Community Center. During the event, students enjoyed pizza while learning about money management. The program is designed to mix fun activities with real-world education.
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — For the first time in more than 100 years of high school sports in Baldwin County, a woman will serve as athletic director over all sports at a public high school. Metta Christensen was appointed as Foley High School’s new AD during a recent awards ceremony. This marks a historic first for both the school and countywide public high school athletics. The announcement came as part of a broader change in leadership roles by the Baldwin County Board of Education.
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — A bar with a history of being at odds with Gulf Shores city officials is going back before the city council asking permission to stay open until 3 a.m. After consulting with the police department, city staff is recommending the council deny the conditional use permit required by Hibas Sing Play Dance in the Pelican Place shopping center. See related story.
Foley, Ala. — (OBA) — Foley will review several bids for goods and services bought by the city in May, including one for $340,331 for the Wolf Creek stabilization project. The award went to Streamline Environment. Another bid will be for the Park Avenue traffic-calming project. Other bids include pickup trucks and an SUV, audiovisual equipment and Park Avenue traffic-calming measures.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — As the summer sun climbs higher over Alabama’s Gulf Coast, this week offers a full slate of activities for locals and visitors alike. From educational wildlife programs to beachside yoga and community music nights, there’s something for every age and interest. Whether you’re looking to connect with nature, dive into local art, or simply enjoy a sweet treat in downtown Foley, the week ahead showcases the region’s rich blend of culture, recreation, and family fun.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Alabama’s red snapper season opened May 23 for private anglers and commercial party boats. Federally permitted charter boats joined on June 1. Social media has been filled with photos of red snapper caught off Alabama’s coast.
Gulf Shores, Ala. — (OBA) — Officer Dylan Frazier has been named Gulf Shores Police Department’s Officer of the Month for May 2025. He was praised for his outstanding performance, teamwork, and dedication. Frazier’s supervisors described him as proactive and dependable. His May activity highlights his commitment to serving the community.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — A patriotic event honoring America’s early military history will take place Saturday in Orange Beach. The Sons of the American Revolution and local Daughters of the American Revolution will host a flag display and presentation. The free event runs from 3 to 5 p.m. in front of the Orange Beach Event Center. Organizers invite the public to learn more about two major milestones from the American Revolution.
Orange Beach, Ala. — (OBA) — Father’s Day is tomorrow, and there’s no shortage of ways to treat the dads in your life along the Alabama Gulf Coast. From fresh Gulf seafood to hand-cut steaks, family cruises to backyard games, local restaurants and attractions are offering specials that go beyond the ordinary. Whether you’re planning an early breakfast, a full day of family fun, or a sunset toast by the water, there’s something happening from Orange Beach to Gulf Shores—and even Perdido Key. Here's a look at some of the Father’s Day highlights across the coast:
