CALHOUN COUNTY, AL — During its regular meeting on Thursday, Feb. 12, 2026, the Calhoun County Commission approved a new resolution establishing local oversight of halfway houses, sober living facilities, and recovery residences operating within the county.
The resolution, adopted pursuant to Alabama Act 2025-109, authorizes the county to begin developing a structured regulatory and licensing framework for such facilities. County officials stated the measure is intended to promote accountability and transparency while supporting recovery efforts and protecting public safety.
According to the resolution, halfway houses and recovery residences play a role in helping individuals transition from incarceration, treatment programs, or court supervision back into everyday life. Commissioners noted that residents in these facilities should have access to safe and supportive environments as they work toward stability and rehabilitation.
As part of the resolution, the county will begin a 14-day self-registration process for all facilities meeting the definitions outlined in the measure. Each facility must provide information including its name and address, ownership and management structure, types of services offered, number of bedrooms and bathrooms, maximum resident capacity, current resident census, and emergency contact details. The information is to be submitted to the Calhoun County Attorney’s Office to help inform future policy development.
County officials said the purpose of the registration requirement is to better understand where facilities are operating and how many individuals they serve, allowing the commission to create fair and effective long-term standards.
The resolution also includes provisions aligned with state law prohibiting registered sex offenders from residing in facilities that house residents who are court-ordered to live there or who are supervised by the Calhoun County Community Punishment and Corrections Authority.
During the meeting, commissioners discussed the resolution as part of broader efforts to address concerns about misuse and inconsistent oversight at some facilities while still supporting recovery services. The measure was approved by roll-call vote and took effect immediately upon adoption.
In addition to the new resolution, the commission addressed routine business, including nuisance abatements and dismissals, bid awards for highway department materials, a compensation and classification study agreement, subdivision acceptance, board appointments, and grant applications.
County officials said a multi-jurisdictional working group composed of legal, healthcare, social service, and law enforcement representatives will continue reviewing data gathered through the registration process and will recommend future regulatory standards.
Commissioners indicated the goal is to balance public safety with support for individuals working toward recovery and reintegration into the community. Commissioner Terry Howell spoke to the Calhoun Journal and shared, “We’re happy as a commission to finally get this resolution across the finish line. Our priority is to focus on safety and public health for our entire county. It will always be my goal for every individual to be successful in life.”
The next regular meeting of the Calhoun County Commission is scheduled for Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026, at 10 a.m.
