Council Votes To Delay Election

Fairhope, Alabama

POSSIBLY UNTIL SEPT. 11TH

Because of confusion surrounding the Governor's order yesterday to evacuate large parts of the city (some citizens have already left),  by a 3-2 vote, the city council decided to call off tomorrow's election. The Governor since modified his order to include only "low-lying" areas of town.

Councilmen Ford and Kingrea voted no -- arguing the long delay was not necessary. Ford suggested it be held as scheduled,  or later this week, but was told by Wynne that would not allow time for the proper legal processes to be followed (notifications, etc.).

They also passed an ordinance to re-schedule it for Sept. 11th.

Mayor Kant and City Attorney Wynee said they had been in contact with the League of Municipalities and the Dept of Justice who recommended they postpone it until that date -- the same date as other local cities -- in anticipation of possible legal challenges of the outcome.

Kant; "The choice is ... either have it tomorrow ... or postpone it until the 11th ... ."

The final vote on the ordinance to reschedule will take place at today's regularly scheduled council meeting (6PM).

(Publisher's Note: There was considerable debate among some council members and the mayor after the meeting concerning when to re-schedule it)