The Gulf Shores City Council had a full agenda this week. Beach renourishment cost, local bar operating license and approval of new developments were just some of the subjects addressed.

The council members first tackled the $10,050,000 bill for recent beach renourishment performed in Gulf Shores. Anna Franklin, Financial Services Director, explained that the expense will be reimbursed by the State and Federal government.

Melvin Shepard, Fire & Rescue Chief of Staff, explained that four full-time lifeguards were needed to manage the (16) other lifeguards during the Gulf Shores seasonal traffic. He stated that they be promoted to Lieutenant for this to be achieved. Each were introduced to the City Council and officially promoted in their new positions.

Mr. Shepard also added that there were 249 rescues this past season. it was pointed out that these members are here to protect the "millions" of visitors to the local beaches.

Carolyn Doughty, a trustee for Baldwin EMC, presented the City with a check of $1.2 million to support Operation Round-Up. The organization provides grants for clothing, food, shelter, medical and other items for citizens in need, They also grant money for educational and environmental uses. Doughty stated that operation Round-Up has given out over $6.5 million dollars to individuals and organization in Baldwin County.

After a suggestion from Dan Netemeyer, Gulf Shores Deputy Police Chief, the City Council voted unanimously to ban alcohol on the beaches during spring break this season. The Chief also accepted official assistance from the Baldwin Sheriffs Department during the high volume season.

The Council then accepted conveyance for a portion of Canal Road from ALDOT. This section will be updated during the building of the Pedestrian Bridge Project. Asphalt Services Inc. was awarded the $1.8 million dollar contract for the paving and detour updates.

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The City Council and Police Department discussed the extension of a liquor license for Cohiba Dunes Cigar Bar. The Gulf Shores Police had suggested to not renew the license. Gulf Shores Deputy Police Chief Dan Netemeyer explains the businesses shortcomings and why the license is in jeopardy.

Chief Netemeyer explained several problems which included drug usage, drug sales, over-served patrons and several other complaints during the "late night" hours.

Dan Alexander and Turner Adcock, owners of Cohiba Dunes, approached the council and had a lengthy conversation about the operation and his attempts to make the business better. He also stated that he would have to shut down his bar if he had to close the operation at 2AM, which members of the Council have considered.

After the lengthy conversation the City Council decided to postpone the license vote until the next schedule session of the council. The owners of Cohiba Dunes will be required to provide the City Council before that proposed date.