Baldwin County assesses damage after severe flooding in Daphne and Spanish Fort

Baldwin County officials are actively assessing the impact of recent severe flooding during the regular commission meeting held on April 15, 2025. The meeting began with an invocation by Pastor Jason Garcia, followed by the Pledge of Allegiance led by Commissioner Ball.

A significant focus of the meeting was the update provided by Tom Tyler from the Emergency Management Agency (EMA) regarding the recovery efforts from last week's rain event, which saw areas like Daphne, Spanish Fort, and Stapleton receive between 9 and 13 inches of rain in a short time, leading to considerable flooding. Tyler reported that the damage assessment process is currently about halfway complete and is expected to conclude by the end of the week.

As of the latest updates, 103 incidents have been logged into the state's disaster documentation program, with the highway department reporting nine incidents, most of which have been addressed with temporary solutions. The estimated cost for highway repairs stands at approximately $500,000. Tyler emphasized the importance of meeting the county's threshold for public assistance, which will determine if a request for a presidential disaster declaration under the Stafford Act can be made.

The commission also adopted the minutes from the previous meeting and approved the payment of bills, ensuring the county's financial responsibilities are met. The collaborative efforts among local municipalities and county departments were praised, highlighting the community's resilience in the face of natural disasters.

As Baldwin County moves forward, the focus remains on recovery and ensuring that the necessary steps are taken to secure federal assistance, should it be warranted. The commission's proactive approach underscores their commitment to the welfare of the community during challenging times.