Calhoun County, AL — As Commissioner Lee Patterson concludes his term as president of the Association of County Commissions of Alabama (ACCA), he reflects on a tenure defined by collaboration, legislative progress, and a deep commitment to strengthening local government across the state.
Under his leadership, Alabama’s county officials worked closely with legislators to address pressing challenges affecting communities statewide — from improving public safety and emergency preparedness to increasing accountability and expanding access to essential services. The result was one of the most productive legislative sessions in recent memory, with counties successfully advancing key reforms to modernize operations and enhance the delivery of vital public programs.
“Commissioner Patterson’s leadership has been instrumental in guiding Alabama counties through a period of extraordinary achievement,” ACCA officials noted. “He has represented both Calhoun County and counties statewide with integrity, innovation, and a strong sense of purpose.”
Among the highlights of Patterson’s presidency were new measures to strengthen representation and professionalism within local Boards of Registrars, updates to emergency management laws to allow greater coordination between counties, and reforms that improved 911 systems, expanded liability protections for emergency responders, and clarified local tax exemption processes. A notable achievement was the renaming of the Alabama Local Government Training Institute to the “Buddy Sharpless Education Institute” — honoring the late O.H. “Buddy” Sharpless III, whose lifelong service left a lasting impact on county government.
Patterson said these accomplishments represent not only legislative success but real progress for Alabama residents.
“It has truly been my honor to serve as president of the ACCA,” Patterson said. “I’m deeply grateful for the faith the Association placed in me, and for the confidence the citizens of Calhoun County have shown by allowing me to represent them as their commissioner. Serving in this role has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.”
Throughout his tenure, Patterson emphasized training, modernization, and workforce development within county government. The Alabama Motor Grader Training Program, designed to provide hands-on instruction for county road employees, reached new milestones as it transitioned into the Alabama Community College System — ensuring continued access and statewide consistency.
He also championed the Crisis Response and Intervention Training (CRIT) initiative, which equips county law enforcement officers with skills to assist individuals in mental health crises through de-escalation and connection to community resources. Patterson said these initiatives show how counties can lead the way in addressing issues that directly affect the well-being of their citizens.
In addition, Patterson guided the continued success of the Investing in Alabama Counties (IAC) program, which helped all 42 participating counties successfully obligate their full federal allocations — more than $400 million in total — toward critical infrastructure improvements such as broadband expansion, water and sewer upgrades, and public health initiatives.
“I’m incredibly proud of the work that’s been accomplished during my time as president,” Patterson said. “From protecting the Simplified Sellers Use Tax to expanding training programs and modernizing emergency management, we’ve made major strides that will continue to benefit Alabama’s citizens for years to come. I know the ACCA will continue to thrive under new leadership, and I’m honored to serve in my final term as past president. I’m confident the future holds even more progress for both our state and Calhoun County.”
Under his guidance, the Association also strengthened the state’s emergency response framework by finalizing the Statewide Inter-Local Mutual Aid Agreement, which allows counties and municipalities to share resources during disasters and planned events. In partnership with the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs, the ACCA also oversaw more than $52 million in disaster recovery funds to rebuild infrastructure and housing in areas impacted by Hurricanes Sally and Zeta.
As Patterson prepares to transition into his new role as past president of the ACCA, he remains dedicated to serving the people of Calhoun County. In the spring of 2026, he is slated to assume the role of chairman of the Calhoun County Commission, where he hopes to build upon the progress made under current Chairman Terry Howell.
“Chairman Terry Howell has done an exemplary job leading the commission,” Patterson said. “We have a strong team of commissioners who are committed to working together for the betterment of Calhoun County. It’s been an honor to serve alongside such dedicated public servants, and I look forward to continuing that tradition of cooperation and progress as chairman.”
Looking back on his time with the Association, Patterson expressed gratitude for the partnerships and friendships formed along the way.
“It has been an honor to serve alongside so many dedicated county leaders,” he said. “Together, we’ve made tremendous progress for our communities, and I look forward to continuing that work here at home in Calhoun County.”
As he concludes his tenure as ACCA president, Commissioner Patterson leaves behind a legacy of integrity, collaboration, and innovation — one that has strengthened county government across Alabama and positioned Calhoun County for continued success in the years to come.
