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Resident urges new rules for halfway houses after nearby shooting; tourism director reports website traffic uptick
Summary
During public comment, a Saks resident urged relocating halfway houses from residential neighborhoods after recounting a shooting; the Chamber tourism director reported increased Visit Calhoun County website views. The Commission then voted to enter executive session to discuss litigation.
During the public comment period on Feb. 26, Cher Dulaney, the Chamber Tourism Director, told the Commission that Visit Calhoun County has seen increased website views after posting videos highlighting local attractions.
Chris Murphy, a resident of the Saks area, urged the Commission to pursue new regulations to relocate halfway houses away from residential neighborhoods and described a personal incident in which gunshots were fired at his family’s house after it was mistaken for a halfway home. Chairman Patterson and Commissioner Howell thanked Murphy for his comments and reiterated the Commission’s proactive efforts on the issue.
Following public comment, county counsel Jonathan Gaddy advised commissioners to enter executive session under the Alabama Open Meetings Act to discuss litigation with the attorney of record, Craig Dillard. Commissioner Henderson moved to enter executive session, Commissioner Shears seconded, and a roll call vote recorded each commissioner voting 'yea'. The executive session began at 10:40 a.m. and concluded at 11:40 a.m.; Chairman Patterson announced no further business would be addressed in the regular meeting and noted the next meeting on March 12, 2026.
