An Alabama town is refusing to lift a trailer ban that's preventing those affected by recent tornadoes from using temporary housing.

The Federal Emergency Management Agency provided trailers to Cordova, Ala., residents who'd lost their homes in the April 27 tornado that devastated the city.

But since 1957, single wide trailers have been illegal within the city limits and officials don't plan on changing the law.

Mayor Jack Scott said he doesn't want "run-down mobile homes" parked all over town for years, and that a tornado isn't a reason to change the law, even temporarily.

Residents are circulating a petition to remove Scott from office because of the ordeal. About 200 angry residents packed a city meeting last week in protest.

"People have to live somewhere. What's it matter if it's in a trailer?" one resident asked.

"I don't feel guilty," Scott responded. "I can look anyone in the eye."