The Chilton County Commission held a work session on February 24, 2025, addressing several pressing community concerns, including drainage issues and property disputes.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding drainage problems affecting a local property. A resident expressed frustration over water backing up onto their land, suggesting the need for additional drainage solutions. Commission members acknowledged the issue but indicated that they had not previously been made aware of any significant water problems in the area. They agreed to consult with the county engineer to assess the situation and determine if the ditches in the right-of-way required cleaning to improve water flow.

Following this, Cassandra Velarde, a property owner in Maplesville, raised serious concerns about a neighboring business operating as a chop shop. She described the noise and environmental hazards posed by the business, including sewage runoff onto her property and the presence of illegal activities. Velarde emphasized the impact on her family's quality of life and expressed dissatisfaction with the responses from local law enforcement and health officials. She highlighted ongoing legal action against the business but noted that the situation remained unresolved.

Commission members listened to Velarde's account but reiterated their limited authority in enforcing zoning laws or addressing issues related to illegal immigration. They acknowledged the challenges faced by residents but maintained that the commission's role did not extend to resolving such disputes.

The meeting concluded without any definitive resolutions, leaving residents concerned about the ongoing issues affecting their properties and the community's overall well-being. The commission's next steps include further investigation into the drainage concerns and continued dialogue regarding the complaints raised by Velarde.