Ala. Code § 45-41-260.06
In the preparation of the master plan and zoning regulations, the commission shall make careful and comprehensive surveys and studies of the present conditions existing within the county with due regard to existing agricultural uses, to land by virtue of its fertility, proximity to water supplies, and other geographical features particularly suited to agricultural uses, to neighboring municipalities, towns, and villages, to the growth of subdivisions, to the general population growth of the county, and make adequate provision for traffic, recreational areas, and industry, and other public requirements. The plan and zoning regulations should be made with the general purpose of guiding and accomplishing a coordinated, adjusted, and harmonious development of the county, which will, in accordance with present and future needs, best promote health, safety, morals, order, convenience, prosperity, and general welfare, as well as efficiency and economy in the process of development, and should promote safety from fire, flood, and other dangers, the healthful and convenient distribution of population, and the wise and efficient expenditure of public funds. The plan and regulations shall be a public record, but its purpose and effect shall be to aid the planning commission in the performance of its duties, including making recommendations to the county governing body and assisting cooperating with other federal, state, and local agencies so as to achieve coordinated, adjusted, and harmonious development.
Ala. Code § 45-41-260.06 (1975)