Anniston, AL – The McClellan Development Authority (MDA) meeting on Tuesday, December 10th, began with procedural matters, including a motion by Board Member Julie Borrelli to add a resolution to the agenda regarding the MDA Board of Directors. The amended agenda was approved unanimously, and the minutes from the previous meeting were also approved.
The primary focus of the meeting was the review and discussion of the findings from the MDA Oversight Committee, which had met on November 26th. Borrelli provided the board with read-ahead material summarizing the committee’s findings, which included concerns about missing meeting minutes, public bid law compliance, and discrepancies in documentation regarding property sales, exchanges, and leases. Additionally, there were questions about whether executive sessions had been properly documented and voted on. The committee noted the balance between confidentiality in economic development and the need for transparency in public processes.
Borrelli emphasized that while some of the issues raised might have been due to oversight or errors, the broader challenge was that the MDA, established in 2010, had reached its limitations. The board’s ability to accomplish its goals was constrained by the structure of its bylaws and the lack of authority to offer incentives or control zoning—powers that the city of Anniston holds.
The meeting transitioned to a discussion about the future of the MDA. Borrelli noted that the board’s limitations had hindered its function and argued it was time to transfer control of the McClellan redevelopment efforts to the City of Anniston. This proposal was supported by other members who highlighted the city’s authority and resources for more efficient project management. A motion was presented by Anniston Mayor Jack Draper, suggesting a meeting be convened by January 2025 to formally begin transferring the MDA’s assets and responsibilities to the city.
The next part of the meeting addressed key environmental concerns and the potential dissolution of the MDA. Board Member Jamie Jordon inquired about ongoing environmental issues, including groundwater monitoring and landfill problems. MDA Attorney Jason Odom confirmed that the Environmental Services Cooperative Agreement (ESCA) program would continue until 2037, with $37 million held by the Army for environmental cleanup under current managment. However, there were concerns about the management of these funds if control of the property was transferred to the city, as similar shifts in the past had led to the withdrawal of Army funding.
Discussions focused on whether the City of Anniston would take on the responsibility for the property, including the environmental cleanup under the ESCA program. Board members acknowledged the financial burden this could place on the city if the Army ceased funding. Borrelli explained that a 90-day due diligence period would be necessary for the city and county to review contracts and the status of the ESCA funds before any dissolution could take place. Jordon expressed reluctance to vote for dissolution until there was confirmation that the ESCA funds would continue and that the city was willing to accept the property and its liabilities.
Board Member Curtis Maxwell voiced frustration over the lack of coordination between the MDA, the city, and other involved parties. He stressed the importance of resolving compliance issues and fostering cooperation for a smooth transition. Maxwell emphasized the need for a more proactive planning approach rather than waiting for the due diligence period.
Calhoun County Administrator Johnathon Gaddy spoke in support of the proposed reorganization, reflecting on the strong historical partnership between the MDA, the Joint Powers Authority (JPA), and the county commission. Gaddy expressed the county’s full support for the changes and stressed the importance of presenting a united front for the community. He encouraged the board to consider how this reorganization could positively impact the image of Anniston and Calhoun County, offering an opportunity for collaboration and progress.
State Senator Keith Kelley also supported the proposal, emphasizing the importance of reducing bureaucracy to attract businesses and foster economic development. Kelley expressed confidence that the transfer of the ESCA funds would not pose an issue and highlighted recent legislation aimed at improving economic opportunities.
A public comment from resident Quinton J. Bouroughs criticized the MDA’s red tape, which he claimed caused businesses and residents to bypass Anniston in favor of neighboring cities. Bouroughs urged the MDA to reconsider its approach and allow the city to take a stronger role in moving the community forward.
The board continued its discussion, with various stakeholders advocating for a shift in strategy to better serve the residents and boost economic development. The members then voted on the resolution, which passed with the following results:
- Jim McClellan – Yes
- Frazier Burroughs – Yes
- Tim Garner – Yes
- Jason Morris – Absent
- Jamie Jordon – Yes
- Curtis Maxwell – Abstained
- Julie Borrelli – Yes
- Sarah Ballard Pritchett – Yes (attending via phone)
- Pokey Brimer – Yes
- Chris Collins – Yes
- JD Hess – Yes
The board then discussed the next steps, which included selecting a transition liaison. Ms. Borrelli was nominated for the role due to her experience working with the city and her involvement in the community. With no further nominations, the motion was approved unanimously.
The meeting concluded with a motion to adjourn, which was seconded and passed without further business.
After the meeting, MDA Director Julie Moss declined to comment, but County Administrator Gaddy shared his thoughts on the unanimous vote. “The direction we’re moving in for the county and the city to potentially take over and do it? I think the county commission is very optimistic about the future possibilities of development at McClellan.” Gaddy acknowledged the work done over the last 25 years but emphasized the need for the city to take the lead in prioritizing development, given its greater resources. He also expressed confidence in Ms. Borrelli’s ability to guide the transition process.
MDA board member and newly selected liaison, Julie Borrelli shared, “The MDA has done a phenomenal job with very few resources over the last 15 years. They have volunteered their time and energy into the MDA because they love their community and want to see McClellan prosper. The City of Anniston, with the support of the County Commission and our legislative delegation, is in a position to further the development that was started by the MDA due to their extensive resources and ability to incentivize incoming businesses to make Anniston more attractive. I believe that with the MDA and the City working together in this transition, this will truly be a positive experience and will be a great opportunity for the continued growth of McClellan. I look forward to assisting in any way that I can.”
Anniston Mayor Jack Draper expressed appreciation for the MDA’s action, stating, “I think we’re all on the same page. The MDA, the legislative delegation, the county, and the city. The goal here is to get the property to its highest and best use, and I look forward to doing just that.”
Senator Keith Kelley echoed the sentiment of community collaboration, noting, “When you have this vote here tonight, it sends a message that everybody’s ready to move forward, working together to take the work that’s been done by the McClellan development and park and take it to the next level.”
Full Meeting:
