Concerns over equal justice under the law dominated discussions at the Mobile Pre-City Council Meeting on September 9, 2025. Councilor Carroll raised a critical issue regarding the enforcement of regulations on vacant properties, questioning why the focus appears to be solely on downtown Mobile while similar problems persist throughout the city.

Carroll emphasized the need for equitable treatment, pointing out that vacant properties are a city-wide concern, not just a downtown issue. "How do we address the equal justice under the law portion of this?" he asked, highlighting the potential for perceived discrimination in enforcement practices.

In response, city officials clarified that the current focus on downtown is based on specific legal frameworks. They explained that the enforcement actions are directed at vacant structures rather than individuals, and that living downtown does not fall under any of the protected classes defined by law. The officials assured that the council's actions are within their governing authority and do not violate any ordinances or laws.

The discussion also touched on the broader implications of form-based coding, which is not exclusive to downtown but also applies to other areas like MLK, Spring Hill Avenue, and Michigan Avenue. However, Carroll reiterated his concerns about fairness, questioning how the city plans to ensure that similar enforcement is applied across all neighborhoods.

As the meeting concluded, the emphasis on equal justice under the law remained a pivotal topic, with council members acknowledging the need for a comprehensive approach to address vacant properties city-wide. The outcome of these discussions could shape future policies and enforcement strategies, ensuring that all areas of Mobile receive equal attention and action regarding property management.