Calhoun County, AL – Calhoun County Commissioner Carolyn Henderson has announced she will not seek re-election when her current service concludes, while confirming she will continue representing District 3 through the remainder of her time in office.
Henderson shared her decision in an interview with the Calhoun Journal, explaining that the choice reflects careful planning and a desire to step away from elected office in a way that respects both the district and the electoral process. She emphasized that she remains fully committed to her responsibilities and will complete her service to District 3.
Henderson entered office following the death of her husband, the late Eli Henderson, and has since served two full terms. During that time, she continued initiatives the couple had worked on together while overseeing county priorities tied to infrastructure, education, and public safety. Among the projects she specifically highlighted were improvements to local ball fields, preservation and recognition efforts at Janney Furnace, and work involving the county water tank—projects she said were important to both the district and to completing her husband’s vision for the community.
Henderson described her service as both a responsibility and an honor, noting that District 3 voters entrusted her to carry forward work that was deeply personal as well as public. She expressed gratitude to those who supported her along the way and said being able to complete much of Eli Henderson’s unfinished work was especially meaningful.
She also addressed the reasoning behind her decision not to run again, explaining that she wanted to ensure District 3 residents have the opportunity to elect their next commissioner rather than risk the seat being filled by a gubernatorial appointment should it become vacant in the future. Henderson noted that her decision is not related to health concerns, stating that she is in good health, but rather reflects thoughtful timing and a desire to close this chapter of public service intentionally.
As part of her announcement, Henderson formally endorsed Michael Webb, who has qualified to run for the Calhoun County Commission District 3 seat.
While speaking with the Calhoun Journal, Webb said District 3 is home, noting it is where he was born, raised, and shaped. He recalled becoming more involved in community events in his early 20s while serving with the Anniston Police Department, during which time he developed a close relationship with Eli Henderson.
Webb said Eli Henderson mentored him, offering guidance on leadership, public service, and the realities of local government. He added that following Eli Henderson’s passing, Carolyn Henderson stepped into office with a commitment to continue the work they had started together, a level of service Webb said left a lasting impression on him.
Webb currently serves on the Calhoun County Board of Education and told the Calhoun Journal that his experience there has prepared him to take on broader responsibilities while continuing to focus on students, families, and community needs.
Support for Webb has also come from local public safety leadership.
Oxford Police Chief Bill Partridge, speaking with the Calhoun Journal, shared the following statement:
“I hate to see Carolyn Henderson retire from the Calhoun County Commission. She has done an outstanding job for our county, and her dedication and leadership will truly be missed. At the same time, I’m glad to see Michael Webb qualify to run for county commissioner to take her place. I’ve known Michael for years, and you couldn’t ask for a better person to fill that position. He genuinely cares about our community, and it shows in everything he does.”
Oxford Fire Chief Gary Sparks also expressed support for Webb while formally announcing that he will not seek election to the District 3 commission seat. Sparks said health considerations played a significant role in his decision not to run, noting that stepping away from the race allows him to prioritize his well-being. He also confirmed that he will formally retire from the Oxford Fire Department on January 24, concluding a long career in public safety.
Sparks acknowledged Henderson’s years of service to District 3 and expressed confidence in Webb’s commitment to the community, stating that he believes Webb will continue serving the district with integrity and dedication.
Wayne Carden Jr., a member of the Ohatchee City Council, added, “I have known Michael Webb for many years and I cannot think of a better candidate to lead District 3. Whoever takes that seat will obviously have big shoes to fill with the fantastic job that Carolyn Henderson has done through the years. Michael has been instrumental in his role as a board member on the Calhoun County Board of Education. You can look no further than the giving of his time and resources in supporting the kids and all of the schools throughout the county to see what a great job he will do and what an asset he will be for the citizens throughout District 3. I have no doubt that Michael will be an outstanding leader and voice for the communities from Ohatchee to Eastaboga to Oxford to Wellborn.“
With Henderson completing her final period of service and publicly endorsing Webb, the District 3 race now moves forward as voters look ahead to the upcoming election. As of now, Webb is the only candidate who has formally qualified for the seat, though additional candidates may enter the race before qualifying closes.
