Good Monday morning, Fairhope! The Christmas events around town this weekend were absolutely magical !!! Thank you to everyone who shared their stunning photos—it’s so special to see our community come together to celebrate the season.

Here’s a Thanksgiving laugh to brighten your Monday: Why didn’t the turkey eat dessert? Because it was already stuffed! 🦃

Now, grab your tea or coffee and let’s dive into the latest happenings around Fairhope! Share this update with your favorite coffee buddy, neighbor, or even that new neighbor you’ve been meaning to welcome. If they sign up at FairhopeNow.com (or click the big blue button below), you’ll be entered to win a $25 Kind Cafe gift card! Just email us at [email protected], and we’ll add your name to the raffle.

^{_{In Today’s Fairhope Now Newsletter:}}

1. Fairhope Approves Water & Sewer Rate Hikes for 2025

2. Fairhope Hardware Building’s Future Still Up in the Air

3. Fairhope McDonald’s Rising from the Ashes One Year Later

4. House Fire Leaves Local Mom and 5 Kids Homeless

5. Fairhope Adoptable Pets: Meet Puzzles The Cat

6. Quick News from Around Fairhope

Fairhope Approves Water & Sewer Rate Hikes for 2025

The Fairhope Times reports that the Fairhope City Council approved a water and sewer rate hike to address revenue shortfalls and better align rates with the costs of providing services. The planned increases have many layers starting January 1, 2025, but an earlier estimate suggested that sewer customers will see an $8 increase to their base monthly charge, plus $3 per thousand gallons used, while water customers will experience a $1.50 base monthly hike and $2 per thousand gallons used inside city limits (and a two-step $1 increase outside city limits). These changes, based on a consultant’s recommendations, aim to raise cost recovery from 65% to 93% over two years, with hopes that system growth will cover the remaining gap. Officials stressed that these adjustments are necessary to maintain and expand Fairhope’s growing utility systems.

Fairhope Hardware Building’s Future Still Up in the Air

Gulf Coast Media reports that the historic Fairhope Hardware Building, constructed in 1922 and part of the Fairhope Downtown Historic District, still faces an uncertain future as plans to demolish it for a new development are under review. The city’s Board of Adjustments and Appeals postponed its decision until December, giving the applicant more time to prepare their proposal. If approved, the building would be replaced by a hotel, medical spa, and restaurant, despite its historic significance. With no protections in place to save the structure, its fate hinges on the board’s upcoming decision.

Fairhope McDonald’s Rising from the Ashes One Year Later

The Fairhope Times reports that it has been a year since the fire at the McDonald’s on Greeno Road, but its replacement is quickly taking shape on the same spot. While there’s no official reopening date yet, signs on the property suggest it could be early next year, and they’re already hiring staff. The new store, locally owned and built by Stansell Construction, will include a third drive-thru window designed to streamline big orders. All that remains of the old store is the iconic sign out front, but the new location is shaping up to be a fresh start.

Don’t Fall for it!

House Fire Leaves Single Mom and 5 Kids Homeless

Fairhope Adoptable Pets : Meet Aeris The Cat

Meet Aeris, a charming 3-year-old female brown and white tabby with a heart full of love to give! This sweet girl traveled from Virginia to find her forever family, and now she's ready to make your home her own. With her beautiful coat of soft tabby stripes and warm, expressive eyes, Aeris is as lovely on the outside as she is on the inside. She's a playful, affectionate companion who enjoys lounging in sunny spots, chasing her favorite toys, and curling up for cuddles when the day winds down.

Aeris has a calm and friendly personality, making her the perfect addition to any home. She gets along well with people and other animals, so whether you're an experienced cat owner or a first-time adopter, she'll fit right in. Aeris is looking for a place to feel safe, loved, and cherished for the rest of her life. Could your home be the one she's been searching for? Meet Aeris today and see how this sweet girl can bring warmth and joy to your life! Learn more about Aeris and other adoptable pets by clicking through to The Haven.

Quick News from Around Fairhope

1. Fairhope Weather: Rain and Storms Possible For Thanksgiving

2. Monday Minute with Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan

3. Local Virtual School Seniors in Need of College and Career Readiness Obtainment

4. WABF, Fairhope’s Local Radio Station, Live Streaming Here

5. WABF Recent Local Interviews

Want to stay up to date on even more local events? Check out Let’s Go! Fairhope .

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