ANNISTON, AL – The Calhoun County Commission convened Thursday morning, May 22, 2025, to tackle a lengthy agenda focused primarily on property nuisance abatements and infrastructure improvements, while also recognizing local emergency response efforts following this week’s tornado.
Storm Recovery Takes Center Stage
Chairman Howell opened the meeting by recognizing the dedicated work of the county’s Emergency Management Agency during the recent severe weather event. EMA Director Myles Chamblee provided an update on the storm, which has now been classified as an F1 tornado. Calhoun County experienced the highest number of power outages statewide, with five homes severely damaged.
“EMA has helped get those families assistance for recovery,” Chamblee reported, also expressing gratitude to the Calhoun County Highway Department, the Baptist Association, and Church of the Highlands for their volunteer teams who assisted residents with tree removal and cleanup efforts.
Property Nuisance Actions Dominate Agenda
The commission addressed a substantial number of property-related matters, with 14 nuisance abatements moving forward on various Anniston properties. These include multiple properties on Simpson Street, Jefferson Street West, and Gurnee Avenue, among others.
In positive news for property owners, seven nuisance cases were dismissed, including properties on Corning Street, Parkwood Drive, and Russell Avenue. Additionally, one property owner on Dagun Drive faces a $226 invoice for nuisance-related costs.
The commission also declared 19 new properties as nuisances, spanning locations throughout Anniston from Wright Street to Old Choccolocco Road, indicating ongoing efforts to address problem properties throughout the county.
Infrastructure and Development Projects Approved
Several significant infrastructure projects received approval, including three Rebuild Alabama initiatives:
- Resurface and traffic striping project
- Modular rolled girder bridge installation on 64th Street
- Modular rolled girder bridge installation on Mitchellville Road
The commission rejected a bid for the Camp McClellan Campground Expansion RTP Project, though details on the rejection were not provided.
Community Support and Services
Chandy Gordon from ASAP announced a community service initiative during public comments, highlighting a free car wash event scheduled for Friday, May 23, from 10 AM to 2 PM at X-Treme Car Wash in Anniston. The service is available to all service members, veterans, and their families.
The commission also approved lighting service agreements with Alabama Power for the Sports Complex facilities and accepted Raider Road as a secondary road into the county system.
Commissioner Shears was absent from Thursday’s meeting, but all agenda items passed unanimously among attending commissioners. The commission’s next meeting is scheduled for Thursday, June 12, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
The meeting demonstrated the commission’s continued focus on property maintenance enforcement while balancing community development needs and emergency response capabilities.
