Anniston, AL – The Calhoun County Chamber of Commerce hosted a political forum for Calhoun County Commission candidates on Monday, April 20, at the Anniston City Meeting Center. The forum, held from 6 to 7 p.m., featured candidates from Districts 1, 2, and 4.
Candidates participated under a structured format with Senator Keith Kelley serving as moderator and Henry Mullinax acting as timekeeper. Topics included emergency medical services (EMS), animal control, transitional housing regulations, and taxation.
District 4 candidates Tobi Burt and Terry Howell addressed several key issues during the forum.
Tobi Burt emphasized funding challenges surrounding EMS services, noting the role of both for-profit and nonprofit providers. He referenced recent legislative changes allowing billing for certain EMS calls and suggested exploring additional funding sources, including reallocating tax dollars and utilizing opioid settlement funds. Burt also highlighted the potential expansion of rapid response units to improve emergency response times in areas like Weaver. On animal control, Burt expressed concern over the county’s financial decisions, questioning the value of the recently purchased facility and suggesting funds could have been better allocated toward infrastructure improvements. He also emphasized the importance of spay and neuter programs to reduce stray populations. Regarding transitional housing, Burt called for increased oversight, citing concerns about profitability and safety, and advocated for stronger regulations and improved mental health considerations. Burt stated he does not support raising taxes and believes the county should focus on managing existing resources more effectively.
Terry Howell focused on the county’s ongoing investment in EMS, noting that approximately $1.6 million in opioid settlement funds has been used to support services. He acknowledged uncertainty about future funding but stressed the importance of maintaining reliable coverage for residents across the county. On animal control, Howell pointed to the purchase of a new facility at Fort McClellan as a major improvement and highlighted the work being done by staff and partnerships with rescue organizations. Addressing transitional housing, Howell described efforts to work with state legislators to establish regulatory authority while balancing public safety and opportunities for recovery. Howell stated that raising taxes would be a last resort, noting that the county is in a strong financial position and is pursuing alternative funding sources.
District 2 candidates Bud Turner and Danny Shears followed.
Bud Turner approached EMS from a budgeting standpoint, describing it as a matter of analyzing available funds and determining how best to distribute them to meet the needs of providers. On animal control, Turner raised concerns about the total cost of the new facility, estimating combined expenses at around $2.5 million, and emphasized the importance of financial transparency. Drawing on his experience as a former circuit judge, Turner discussed the need for oversight in transitional housing, referencing his past work visiting and evaluating facilities. On taxation, Turner differed from other candidates, stating that certain priorities such as infrastructure, education, and law enforcement could justify tax increases if necessary, particularly in areas experiencing growth.
Danny Shears described EMS funding as a newer challenge for the county, explaining that rising costs have required the commission to provide support using opioid settlement funds. He noted that while those funds are temporary, the county is working toward long-term solutions to ensure continued service. On animal control, Shears highlighted the commission’s decision to purchase the facility using capital improvement funds, avoiding debt, and described it as a cost-effective approach compared to building new. He also pointed to improvements in operations and oversight. Regarding transitional housing, Shears discussed recent legislation that provides the county with regulatory authority and emphasized the need to address overcrowding and safety concerns. He stated that the county does not have the authority to raise taxes independently and emphasized responsible use of existing funds.
District 1 candidates Jackson Hodges and Fred Wilson concluded the forum discussion.
Jackson Hodges emphasized EMS as a critical public safety issue, advocating for a data-driven approach that includes evaluating response times and infrastructure challenges such as road conditions. He stressed the importance of cooperation among agencies to improve outcomes. On animal control, Hodges identified the issue as a top priority, citing increased calls related to stray animals and sharing personal experiences to illustrate the impact on residents. He called for reallocating resources and prioritizing solutions that address both public safety and animal welfare. Regarding transitional housing, Hodges supported recent regulatory efforts and highlighted the connection to broader issues such as homelessness. He opposed broad tax increases, suggesting more targeted financial strategies where needed.
Fred Wilson highlighted the county’s continued support for EMS, including funding contributions in recent years, and emphasized the importance of working with state legislators to secure additional resources. On animal control, Wilson pointed to improvements made during his time in office, including the acquisition of a new facility and expanded adoption efforts, and stressed the importance of maintaining qualified staff. He supported regulation of transitional housing facilities to ensure safety and compliance. On taxation, Wilson stated that while taxes can sometimes be necessary, the county should prioritize alternative funding sources before considering increases.
The forum concluded with closing remarks from each candidate, with many emphasizing service, community involvement, and the importance of voter participation in the upcoming election.
