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Calhoun County Commission unanimously approves nuisance abatements, grants and multiple surplus resolutions
Summary
At its April 9 meeting, the Calhoun County Commission unanimously approved seven nuisance abatements and nine nuisance declarations, authorized participation in an opioid settlement, approved several grant and surplus-resolutions, and allocated $25,000 to United Way for Martha’s Hope.
The Calhoun County Commission met April 9, 2026, in a session chaired by Chairman Patterson and unanimously approved a slate of routine and programmatic actions, including nuisance abatements, grant reallocations and several surplus property resolutions.
The meeting opened at 10:00 a.m., with Commissioners present and the agenda adopted by voice vote after a motion from Commissioner Henderson and a second from Commissioner Howell. Commissioner Shears presented a proclamation recognizing Alabama Extension Week to Dr. David West, who “expressed appreciation to the commission for their ongoing support.”
Environmental Programs Manager Kraig Mize asked the commission to proceed with public nuisance abatements for seven properties listed in the meeting file. Ms. Kathi O’Neal, owner of two Weaver Lane properties, told the commission she has lived out of state for five years, “has initiated the process of cleaning the property and has successfully removed the vehicles.” Mize offered to meet with her after the meeting. Commissioner Shears moved to adopt the abatement resolutions; Commissioner Wilson seconded the motion, which carried unanimously.
The commission also approved dismissal resolutions for two properties that Mr. Mize recommended be removed from nuisance status. Mr. Mize presented two nuisance-cleanup invoices — $830.00 for 423 54th St. E and $6,630.00 for 2033 Old Choccolocco Rd. — and the board approved payment for both. Commissioner Howell commended Mize for the cleanup of the 54th Street property.
Mr. Mize requested that the commission declare nine additional properties as public nuisances. Property owner Jeff Wilkinson said he has “been making efforts to improve the property, but the process has proven to be quite challenging.” Timothy Clark said a lease-to-own tenant had significantly deteriorated a property that had been previously cleaned. Mize again offered to meet with both owners after the meeting. Commissioners Henderson and Shears moved and seconded the declaration; the motion passed by unanimous voice vote.
County staff presented several agreements and resolutions. Mr. Jonathan Gaddy submitted an agreement, advised by the county attorney, to permit Calhoun County’s participation in the National Opioids Six Remnant Defendants’ Settlement; Commissioner Shears moved to authorize the chairman to sign, and the motion passed unanimously. Gaddy also presented an agreement to remain in the Anniston–Calhoun County HOME Consortium for program years 2027–2029 and a proposed annual allocation of $25,000 to United Way for Martha’s Hope (effective through Sept. 30, 2028); the commission authorized the chairman to sign both agreements.
The commission authorized staff to extend the McClellan Horsetrails lease with the Back Country Horsemen of America and approved an easement access agreement with Alabama Power to provide utilities for the new community center at Thankful Park. Gaddy presented an ADECA grant reallocation to move unused funds from the National Monument Park parking project, and the board adopted the resolution to accept that reallocation.
The commission declared several items surplus for disposal: an LED sign at the Agriculture Center, signs at the Recycle Center, and medical software from the jail. The board also adopted a JAG grant application resolution not to exceed $26,685 to support equipment or services for the 7th Judicial Circuit Major Crimes Unit and approved a Capital Facilities Reinvestment plan to fund improvements to county buildings.
Public comments included Sammi Stevenson, Anniston EMS Director, who thanked the commission for supporting recent legislation allowing EMS services to charge for "treat in place" calls. Sheriff Hurst announced the Sheriff Rodeo at Choccolocco Park April 17–18 and thanked the commission for improvements at the jail and courthouse. Cher Dulaney, Chamber Tourism Director, highlighted upcoming community events including the Chief Ladiga Run, Noble Street Festival and Liberty at the Landing for America’s 250th anniversary. Dr. David West thanked the commission for upgrades at the Agricultural Center and for allowing Extension staff to help prepare for the rodeo.
Commissioner Henderson moved to adjourn; Commissioner Shears seconded and the motion carried unanimously. The meeting adjourned at 10:28 a.m.; the next meeting was scheduled for April 23, 2026, at 10:00 a.m.