ANNISTON, AL – The Calhoun County Commission convened Thursday, August 28, 2025, to address a substantial agenda including property nuisance violations, infrastructure improvements, and significant contract awards totaling over half a million dollars.
Property Nuisance Actions Take Center Stage
The commission processed 41 properties for various nuisance violations across Anniston, Jacksonville, Weaver, and Ohatchee. Twenty properties were approved for abatement proceedings, while four properties had their cases dismissed after owners successfully addressed violations.
Several property owners appeared before the commission to discuss their progress. Jeff Morton addressed violations at 244 Willingham Drive, stating he had received cleanup notices and was actively removing debris from the property. Michael Good reported progress on clearing brush and retaining walls at 4642 Skyline Drive, while Jennifer Smith explained delays at 2149 Spring Road in Ohatchee due to her husband’s month-long absence in California.
County officials recommended declaring 21 additional properties as public nuisances, indicating ongoing efforts to address blighted conditions throughout the county.
Major Infrastructure Investment Approved
The commission awarded a $480,480 contract to Vulcan Materials, Asphalt and Construction, LLC for construction work on Mahlep Lane. This project represents the completion of a comprehensive infrastructure improvement that includes a newly installed 1.1-mile waterline positioned alongside the road rather than underneath.
“This will be a long-ending success story from Mahlep Lane. Be glad to get that behind us,” commented the commission chairman, acknowledging the project’s significance for the community.
Additionally, the commission approved purchasing a 2025 Chevrolet Colorado for the Revenue Department’s appraisal team, awarding the $32,530 contract to Hooper Chevrolet as the lowest responsible bidder.
Technology and Safety Agreements Authorized
Several operational agreements received approval, including a $750 monthly contract with Diversified Computer Services, LLC for the Highway Department’s information management system and a $2,709.16 agreement with Watch Systems LLC for the Sheriff’s Office’s Offender Watch program related to sex offender registration requirements.
The commission also approved extending the jail inmate supply contract with Bob Barker Company for a third and final year, and authorized a $16,800 amendment for additional courthouse assessment work by Bill Whittaker Architecture.
Key Appointments and Policy Decisions
Board appointments were made across several agencies, including Dr. David West to the DHR Board District 3 position, Julie Borrelli to DHR Board District 5, and Jordan Trammell’s reappointment to an at-large DHR Board position. Chief Johnnie Phelps of the Anniston Fire Department was appointed to fill a District 4 vacancy on the Calhoun County 9-1-1 Board of Directors.
The commission endorsed the current Simplified Sales and Use Tax (SSUT) program, which generates approximately $4 million annually for county operations. They also approved increasing landfill rates for construction demolition debris to $40 per ton, bringing fees in line with regional standards.
Community Engagement Continues
Chamber of Commerce representative Jakob Williamson announced upcoming events, including a “State of Our Schools” presentation on September 10 and a “State of Agriculture” event on September 23 featuring Commissioner Rick Pape and a tomato sandwich lunch.
The commission’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Thursday, September 11, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.
