DECATUR, Ala. — Big changes could be coming to Point Mallard Campground in Decatur.
UPDATE: The Decatur City Council voted unanimously to approve the short-term stay of up to 14 days in Section A, and the council voted 4-1 to increase the monthly rate.
A new proposal would limit rental space where a good number of campers have lived long-term. Some residents say they feel like they'd be forced out if this new proposal is passed by the city.
"A lot of people out here now, won't have nowhere to go if they do away with it," says resident Buddy Briscoe.
For many campers like Briscoe, Point Mallard Campground is home. "It's a pretty tight knit group of people together here," added Briscoe.
Briscoe's retired and his family visits him regularly. He's lived in Section B for two years after his wife passed away and feels this new proposal is a pricey one.
Just one week ago, the Point Mallard Campground made a proposal to the city of Decatur. "In this proposed plan - Section A would be the short-term stay section and again that's from one day to fourteen days," says Point Mallard Campground Manager, Stephanie McLaine.
City council also mentioning enforcement of an ordinance passed two years ago, requiring campers to move after 179 days because of flood concerns.
"Point Mallard estates, is in a flood zone. So, I don't think we want to put those people in jeopardy of being liable or the city being liable," says Decatur City Councilwoman District 3, Paige Bibbee.
Point Mallard Park collects an additional 6% city lodging tax on campground sites for individuals staying less than 180 days. The campground also wants to increase rates.
"Just the extra expense out of your pockets, and a lot of folks don't have that extra expense on a limited income. It makes a big difference. It sure does," says Briscoe.
Our WZDX News reporter reached out to campground staff and they say they'll soon release a statement no matter the outcome of the vote.
Briscoe believes campers will lose money and so will the city. "A lot of folks out here is good friends, and it's a lot of construction workers out here. They 'gon be taking away from the wealth of Decatur if they do that," he says.
The city is scheduled to vote on the proposal tomorrow at 6 p.m.