by The Associated Press
Published: Fri, June 27, 2008 - 3:31 pm CST
MONTGOMERY, Ala. (AP) - A Montgomery judge has blocked plans bythe state to turn Gulf State Park in Gulf Shores into a convention
destination by building an upscale hotel and conference center.
Circuit Judge Gene Reese ruled today that the state's plans
violate Alabama laws.
Former state Conservation Commissioner Charley Grimsley was one
of several people who sued the state over the plans. He called the
judge's ruling a victory for average Alabama families that have
enjoyed Gulf State Park for years.
A spokesman for Governor Bob Riley says the ruling is
disappointing and an appeal is likely.
Gulf State Park's lodge was destroyed by Hurricane Ivan in 2004.
The state planned to replace it with an upscale hotel, spa and
convention center that would be operated by a Georgia company.
Reese ruled that state law requires officials to take into
account the average family income of Alabamians when planning park
facilities. He also said park facilities must be operated by
employees of the state Conservation Department.
(Copyright 2008 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.)
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