Meeting Type: BCC Regular Meeting
Meeting Date: 1/6/2026
Item Status: New
From: Felisha Anderson, Director of Archives and History
Submitted by: Felisha Anderson, Director of Archives and History
______________________________________________________________________
ITEM TITLE
Title
Authorization for Use of Blacksmith Shop at Bicentennial Park by South West Alabama Forge Group (Alabama Forge Council)
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STAFF RECOMMENDATION
Recommendation
Authorize the Southwest Alabama Forge Group to use the Blacksmith Shop at Baldwin County Bicentennial Park for monthly meetings and demonstrations beginning February 1, 2026, limited to normal operating hours and subject to Baldwin County Archives and History staff oversight.
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BACKGROUND INFORMATION
Background: Staff received an inquiry from Mr. Justin Cooley, Forgemaster for the Southwest Alabama Forge Group, a chapter of the Alabama Forge Council. Mr. Cooley requested permission for the group to use the Blacksmith Shop at Bicentennial Park as a regular meeting space, and for conducting public and member demonstrations related to blacksmithing.
Mr. Cooley also expressed interest in holding “Forge Nights” every other week; however, staff informed him this is not feasible due to operational and staffing constraints. The group understands that use of the Blacksmith Shop will be limited to the park’s normal operating days and hours only.
All activities will be scheduled and coordinated with the Director of Archives and History to ensure safety, operational compliance, and availability.
The group has provided a Certificate of Liability Insurance, which is attached for the Commission’s review.
Previous Commission action/date: N/A
FINANCIAL IMPACT
Total cost of recommendation: N/A
Budget line item(s) to be used: N/A
If this is not a budgeted expenditure, does the recommendation create a need for funding? N/A
LEGAL IMPACT
Is legal review necessary for this staff recommendation and related documents?
N/A
Reviewed/approved by: N/A
Additional comments: N/A
ADVERTISING REQUIREMENTS
Is advertising required for this recommendation? N/A
If the proof of publication affidavit is not attached, list the reason: N/A
FOLLOW UP IMPLEMENTATION
For time-sensitive follow up, select deadline date for follow up: N/A
Individual(s) responsible for follow up: Mail correspondence to Justin Cooley
Justin Cooley
707 Hall Avenue
Bay Minette, Alabama 36507
cc: Roger Rendleman
Frank Lundy
Felisha Anderson
Caleb Hacker
Action required (list contact persons/addresses if documents are to be mailed or emailed): N/A
Additional instructions/notes: N/A