October 1, 2021
Lee Evancho
Danny Shears was sworn in as the newest Calhoun County Commissioner on October 1, 2021. He was appointed by the Governor after Tim Hodges resigned to be the new Revenue Commissioner. Commissioner Shears was joined by his wife, Paige Shears. Shears is a native of Ohatchee and has lived in Oxford for the last 26 years. He stated he has always been community and service minded. He has been a coach for Oxford Parks and Recreation, served on the Community Development Board, Planing and Zoning Commission, and serves on the Oxford Performing Arts advisory board.
After the swearing in, which was conducted by Judge Alice Martin, Commissioner Shears said what a big day this was for him and his family. He has always dreamed of being in the political realm, but had no idea that, “God would see fit to make it happen on October 1st, 2021.” He went on to explain how much he is looking forward to this position and serving the County and District 2. He laughed and acknowledged he has never been shy about sharing his opinion, but also noted listening was paramount for him to succeed. He believes that synergy is the best way forward. 
He also referenced growing up as a country boy on 44 acres and believes this gives him a better ability to relate to a variety of people from all walks of life. He also joked that he knows he has a lot of work to do to seek reelection in 8 months, so he will be kissing a lot of babies. Commissioner Fred Wilson noted he needed to make a change to, “Kissing a lot of women and holding a lot of babies.” Commissioner Shears did sincerely thank Commissioners Wilson, Henderson, and Patterson for attending the swearing in. He also noted the Commissioner Hess called to apologize for not being able to attend. He explained that he requested this be a low key affair, as he is coming in to the middle of a term. He did say if he was lucky enough to be elected again, he would have a big event and invite all his family.
The Calhoun County Journal had the opportunity to ask why he sought this appointment. What was the motivation behind wanting to take on this position? Commissioner Shears was very clear in explaining that Calhoun County has always been supportive of him and he wants to pay back the county. He has always sought out ways to help from coaching, serving on boards, working with non-profits, or picking up trash at Choccolocco Park. So if the question is why, the answer is why not? Why not Danny Shears? Commissioner Shears also stated he has always believed, ” A leader finds a way to lead.” He is excited about having a bigger reach and the resources to do more for the county. Mr. Shears also spoke at the last Oxford City Council meeting and thanked the council and Mayor for writing letters of recommendations to the Governor’s office. He stated the letters carried a lot of weight in his appointment.
As Commission Shears took his place behind the commission bench, he looked out and noted, “The view is much better from up here!”
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