68 Ventures Faces Scrutiny Amid Allegations of Political Favoritism in Baldwin County

July 16, 2025 - BALDWIN COUNTY, AL - 68 Ventures, a major real estate development firm headquartered in Daphne, is facing renewed scrutiny as allegations of political favoritism and undue influence swirl around its land deals, campaign donations, and legal battles with local governments.

The controversy intensified after Republican gubernatorial candidate Ken McFeeters accused 68 Ventures CEO Nathan Cox of manipulating Baldwin County politics through strategic donations and backroom dealings. McFeeters claims Cox has influenced school board votes, steered no-bid contracts, and benefited from land deals that allegedly overcharged the Baldwin County Board of Education.

Cox has denied the accusations, stating, "We've never sold land to BCBE, nor have we ever performed any work for the school system for compensation." He emphasized that 68 Ventures has donated nearly $40 million in land since 2016, including:

- 58.83 acres for Baldwin Preparatory Academy

- 82.6 acres for Stonebridge High School and future middle school sites

- Sponsorships for booster clubs and educational foundations

Cox added, "Supporting the school system is essential because as the school system goes, so goes our entire county."

Campaign Finance Spotlight

Campaign finance records show that Nathan Cox and affiliated entities have made significant political contributions in recent years. Notably:

- A $100,000 donation to U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville's campaign was flagged by McFeeters as evidence of political influence

- Cox has also contributed to local school board members and community organizations, though he maintains that the largest monetary donation to any school-related entity was $1,000, intended as a gesture of support

While Cox insists these contributions are philanthropic, critics argue they create a perception of favoritism-especially when paired with land donations and development approvals.

Legal Disputes and Planning Controversies

68 Ventures has filed multiple lawsuits against the City of Fairhope, alleging that planning commissioners conspired to deny subdivision projects. A federal judge dismissed one suit in 2024, but the company continues to pursue claims in state court.

Fairhope Mayor Sherry Sullivan responded, "It has taken a lot of time and resources for the City to defend this lawsuit... I am especially thankful to clear the name and actions of several of our volunteer planning commission members who did not deserve to have their integrity challenged."

Adam Campbell, president of 68 Ventures, countered, "This case is simply about equal justice and the rights of every American to enjoy the property rights provided by the State of Alabama."

Historical Context: Baldwin County's Development Politics

Baldwin County has long been a flashpoint for development-related controversies. Since its founding in 1809, the county has evolved from a sparsely populated frontier to one of Alabama's fastest-growing regions. Key historical dynamics include:

- The Fairhope Single Tax Colony, founded in 1894, was an early experiment in land value taxation and cooperative governance

- In the 20th century, rapid growth and tourism transformed the county, leading to tensions between developers and preservationists

- Watchdog groups like the Ripp Report have chronicled what they call "a decade of corruption," alleging insider deals and political cronyism involving developers, judges, and elected officials

These historical patterns have shaped public skepticism toward large-scale development and fueled calls for greater transparency in land use decisions.

Looking Ahead

As Baldwin County continues to grow, the debate over transparency, ethical governance, and responsible development is likely to intensify. Whether the allegations against 68 Ventures result in legal consequences or remain political theater, they highlight the need for clear oversight and community engagement in shaping the region's future.

Editorial Note: 68 Ventures has responded to the controversy by sending Cease and Desist letters to McFeeters and a dozen other critics of the company. 68 Ventures has demanded that a number of internet posts be removed from the BALDWIN COUNTY CITIZENS For GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY page on Facebook.