ANNISTON, AL — Calhoun County Commissioner Terry Howell recently sat down with The Calhoun Journal to discuss his public service journey, including his work addressing homelessness, his time on the Calhoun County Commission, and the leadership roles that continue to shape his approach to community involvement.
Howell shared that his focus on homelessness outreach has shaped much of his leadership approach. He referenced efforts connected with The Right Place in Anniston, which works to assist low-income and homeless individuals and families through affordable housing initiatives, homelessness prevention programs, and support services such as rent and utility assistance.
According to Howell, that commitment began more than a decade ago during a visit to New Orleans, Louisiana. He recalled witnessing individuals eating from trash containers near a restaurant and said the experience stayed with him. Howell shared that while he had seen poverty before, that moment caused him to view the issue differently and recognize a responsibility to act.
That realization later translated into direct action. Howell said he and his wife began assembling and distributing brown lunch bags during visits to New Orleans. The bags typically included water, fruit, raisins, small cakes, and ramen noodles, with approximately 10 to 20 prepared and distributed at a time. Howell shared his belief that when individuals each do a small part, the collective impact can be meaningful.
That same mindset, Howell said, ultimately influenced his decision to pursue public office.
Howell was sworn in as a Calhoun County commissioner on Nov. 11, 2022. During his time on the commission, he later served as chairman, a role he recently completed. Reflecting on that period, Howell said the position required steady leadership, collaboration, and trust among commissioners. He shared that he felt supported by his fellow commissioners throughout his term and credited that teamwork with helping guide the commission’s work.
With his commission chairmanship now concluded, Howell has moved from one chair to another — currently serving as chairman of The Right Place Board, a nonprofit organization focused on housing stability and homelessness-related services in Calhoun County. Howell described the transition as a continuation of his service rather than a shift away from it.
He framed both leadership roles — past and present — as connected by a shared purpose: helping position Calhoun County “in the right place” through cooperation, long-term planning, and community-focused leadership.
While taking on this new nonprofit role, Howell emphasized that his commitment to county government remains unchanged. He confirmed that he is running for a second term as Calhoun County commissioner in the 2026 elections, saying he is proud of the work accomplished so far and motivated to continue serving the community.
Looking ahead, Howell said his focus remains on homelessness-related initiatives, community partnerships, and leadership grounded in teamwork. Whether at the commission dais or the nonprofit board table, Howell said surrounding himself with dedicated people continues to shape how he approaches public service.
