New Equipment for Mobile Arena

The Mobile City Council has officially approved a purchase agreement with Robbins Sports Surfaces to outfit the new Mobile Arena. The contract includes the acquisition of a new basketball floor, specialized storage carts, and transition ramps.

This development comes as the construction of the new arena reached its halfway completion milestone earlier this month. City officials are also prioritizing the integration of historical elements into the new venue.

Preserving Local Art

Mayor Spiro Cheriogotis addressed plans to reinstall murals that were previously removed from the old Civic Center. The city has invested significant funds into the proper removal and storage of this artwork.

"When you have a work of art like we have, it deserves preservation," Mayor Cheriogotis stated. "We’re going to make sure we do what it takes to get this mural back in place and be in a place where people can enjoy it."

New Licensing Ordinance for Hemp Retailers

In addition to arena updates, the Council passed a new ordinance regulating the sale of hemp products. Retailers are now required to undergo a licensing process modeled after the city’s liquor license approval system.

Under the new rules, businesses must secure approval from the City Council before obtaining final authorization from the Alabama Alcoholic Beverage Control Board. Mayor Cheriogotis emphasized the importance of supporting local business owners who operate within the law.

"These business owners bought them legally, were operating legally, and selling them legally," the Mayor added. "We just want to get that back in action as soon as possible, out of respect for our business owners and for the customers who desire these products."