Commission denies Howard property rezoning amid wetlands and beach-mouse concerns

The Baldwin County Commission unanimously denied a request to rezone the Howard property (Z25-64) from RSF-2 to RSF-3 during its Feb. 19 meeting.

County planning staff presented the request and noted site constraints including potential wetlands and critical habitat considerations. Agency comments referenced in the record included input from Fish and Wildlife (identified in public comment as involving Bill Lynn), which raised objections that commissioners discussed during deliberations.

Public commenters, including Tracy Gamble, urged adherence to the county's future land use guide and noted the parcel’s conservation/preservation designation and wetland concerns. Tammy Howard, the property owner, said the request was to allow modest family-oriented construction and that she would comply with Fish and Wildlife and other agency requirements.

Commissioner Underwood and other commissioners emphasized that approving the rezoning would create a nonconforming lot amidst an RSF-2 area and could set a precedent leading many property owners to seek similar splits. Commissioner Underwood explicitly cited the potential to "undermine the purpose of having the RSF 2 designation" and argued the request should be denied on those grounds.

A motion to deny the rezoning was made, seconded and passed by unanimous voice vote.

Staff noted that if wetlands or protected-species habitat is confirmed on the site, required federal and state reviews and permits would apply to any future building activity.