NBU is pleased to announce the addition of Hamilton C. Smith to its board of directors. Smith was appointed to the six-year term at the January City of Bay Minette council meeting.

An Auburn University graduate, Smith has over 30 years of experience in finance and banking. He has also served on numerous boards and committees throughout the years. Now self-employed, Smith would like to continue to serve the North Baldwin area. “I want to give back to my community for all it contributes to my life,” proudly stated Smith.

Smith filled the vacancy previously held by Richard I. Gaines. Gaines served on the board since March 2009. At the completion of his 12-year term, Gaines was serving as vice chair.

Gaines and previously retired Board of Director Benjamin A. Bailey were presented with proclamations at NBU’s March board meeting. The proclamations recognized the dedication Gaines and Bailey proudly gave to the community. Pictured, Gaines (left) and Bailey (right).

Bailey served on NBU’s board for 12 years. During that time, he held both positions of vice chair and chair. His term expired in March of 2019.

NBU recognizes the time and service each of its board of directors gives to the community. Following executive elections held at the March meeting, NBU’s current five-member board includes Chair Larry Taylor, Vice Chair Henry “Clint” Conner, Secretary and Treasurer James “Jim” Robertson, Mayor Robert “Bob” Wills and incoming Director Hamilton Smith. The board meets in the T.W. Mitchell Board Room at 25 Hand Avenue on the last Wednesday of each month.

Baldwin County is launching the U.S. Treasury Emergency Rental Assistance Program to provide emergency rental assistance to Alabamians residing in Baldwin County who are at risk of experiencing homelessness or housing instability due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

The program is funded through the federal Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act, 2020 (H.R. 133). This relief package includes $25 billion for emergency rental assistance, of which $6.6 million has been allocated to the county to provide assistance to residents of Baldwin County.

Both landlords and renters may apply. The program can help with past-due and forward rent payments for qualified applicants. Qualifications will be included in the application which will be available by April 1st. Baldwin County landlords and residents can join the mailing list now to receive updates and be notified as soon as applications are being accepted at www.baldwinaltogether.org.