Anniston leaders flag McClellan deed transfer, possible bond and water-tower funding for infrastructure

City officials and residents used the Ward 4 meeting to discuss economic development opportunities tied to the McClellan property and to preview infrastructure funding options.

Council and staff said the city recently completed deed work on property tied to the McClellan site and has initiated development planning with a new economic developer, Aaron Norris. "As of this Friday, we had the clean deeds ready and they're over at the county getting processed," a city official said, adding that the council is working with consultants and considering targeted recruitment of restaurants and other businesses desired by residents.

Council members also discussed longer-term infrastructure funding. Staff described a 5–7 year road plan, and a council member said the city has placed roughly $3 million into North Anniston infrastructure and is exploring additional financing through a bond and federal appropriation. "We are also looking at a congressional appropriation, which is gonna be roughly $6,000,000 to put a water tower out there," a council member said; later, the bond concept of about $10,000,000 for paving was discussed as a possible major funding vehicle.

Officials said these proposals remain in planning and would require council votes and further financial analysis. Residents asked for clarity on budgets and the council encouraged public input on what types of businesses and amenities they want to see in Ward 4 and across Anniston.