County Commission explores charging for road repairs after willful damage incidents

The Chilton County Commission held a work session on April 21, 2025, to address several pressing issues, including road damage and potential lobbying efforts for water infrastructure improvements.

The meeting began with a discussion regarding the need for a formal motion to hold individuals accountable for willful damage to county roads. A commissioner raised concerns about repeated incidents where individuals intentionally damaged roads, suggesting that the road department should invoice those responsible for repairs. The discussion highlighted the frequency of such incidents, with one commissioner noting that this was not an isolated case. The group agreed on the necessity of a resolution to clarify the county's stance on willful damage and the potential for law enforcement involvement in future incidents.

Following the road damage discussion, the commission turned its attention to the pressing issue of securing water access at the 200 exit. One commissioner reported ongoing challenges in obtaining funding for this project, which is estimated to cost between $10 million and $12 million. The proposal to hire a lobbying firm, specifically Williams and Jensen, was introduced as a potential solution to navigate the complexities of securing state funding. While some commissioners expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of lobbyists, others argued that having dedicated representation could enhance the county's chances of success in obtaining necessary funds.

The conversation revealed a divide among commissioners regarding the use of lobbyists, with some advocating for direct engagement with state representatives instead. However, the potential benefits of having a lobbyist present in Washington, D.C., to advocate for the county's needs were acknowledged.

As the meeting concluded, the commission agreed to further explore the proposed resolution on road damage and the possibility of hiring a lobbyist for the water project. The next steps will involve drafting the resolution and considering the implications of engaging a lobbying firm to assist with funding efforts. The commission remains committed to addressing both road safety and essential water infrastructure needs for the residents of Chilton County.