ANNISTON, AL – The Calhoun County Commission convened for its regular meeting on Thursday, January 8, 2026, addressing property nuisances, liquor license applications, and several county agreements during a 23-minute session.
Chairman Terry Howell opened the meeting by presenting a proclamation recognizing January as Human Trafficking Prevention Month to United Way representatives Jessica Smith and Pam Stak. Smith thanked the Commission for raising awareness on the issue, while Sheriff Hurst later acknowledged the ongoing challenge of trafficking within the county.
The Commission approved public nuisance abatements for four properties across Jacksonville, Anniston, and Piedmont, while dismissing nuisance declarations on five properties in Weaver and Anniston. Additionally, twelve new properties were declared public nuisances, including locations in Anniston and Jacksonville.
County Administrator Jonathan Gaddy presented two ABC Board applications for Sukhar-related businesses on Choccolocco Road. The Commission waived the second reading and approved a license transfer for Sukhar LLC’s Payless Food Mart for off-premises beer and wine sales. A separate application for Sukhar 1 LLC’s Payless Liquor received its first reading.
The Commission authorized several agreements, including partnerships with Alabama Weather Camera Network for public safety weather observation equipment and WEX Bank to enable electric vehicle charging for the Sheriff’s Office’s newly acquired electric vehicles. A dumpster rental agreement with Republic Services for OneWorld Animal Control was also approved.
County Engineer Rodney McCain presented the FY2025 Rebuild Alabama Annual Report, which received Commission approval. The Commission also adopted a bank authorization resolution designating Administrator Gaddy and Chairman Lee Patterson as authorized check signatories effective January 24, 2026.
School Board President Michael Webb provided updates on athletic facility improvements across the county’s seven schools, drawing commendation from Commissioner Patterson for the board’s strategic vision.
During public comments, Sheriff Hurst announced the hiring of a deputy dedicated to addressing litter issues, made possible through Commission funding. The position has already proven effective in identifying violators and pursuing legal action.
The meeting adjourned at 10:23 a.m. The next Commission meeting is scheduled for Thursday, January 22, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.
