As summer is fast approaching boater are preparing to splash their boats and entertain family and friends on the water. But some local politicians want to make sure the boat operators are treated with respect. Orange Beach Mayor Tony Kennon is hopeful for change after conversations with Alabama Law Enforcement Agency (ALEA) secretary Hal Taylor over the alleged actions of Marine Patrol Division troopers along the Gulf Coast.

Kennon spoke with Taylor about six months ago concerning complaints he had received from boaters. When he read a recent article about Mobile County Sheriff Paul Burch publicly stating some marine troopers were "harassing" boaters, Kennon said he realized he wasn't alone.

"I talked this morning to Secretary Hal Taylor," Kennon told 1819 News last week. "He's coming down with his leadership team to meet with myself and our marine division to discuss potential issues that have been brought up by the public and hopefully, we will come to a resolution."

According to Kennon, ALEA's leadership is taking the complaints seriously.

"Taylor was very sincere and I appreciate him wanting to get together so quickly and wanting to accelerate the process," Kennon added.

While Kennon did not want to name specific complaints, Burch told 1819 News there have been a number of issues, such as unnecessary ticketing in no-wake zones.

During the upcoming meeting, Kennon hopes to examine tickets and warnings issued and compare state policing to local policing.

"I think both ALEA and the City of Orange Beach appreciate the feedback we've been getting from the boating public," Kennon said. "And want to make boating in Orange Beach a very pleasant experience for everyone."

Burch told 1819 News he had not heard from Secretary Taylor about his concerns, although he had heard from some of his staff.

In response to Burch's complaint, ALEA director of external affairs Amanda Wasden said Marine Patrol's job is to "ensure the safety and compliance of all individuals on Alabama's waterways."

Primary writer Erica Thomas is a full time journalist at 1819 News, which reports on the State of Alabama