Resident urges more negotiation on Sterling Road turnaround near family property

Jerel Miller, who identified himself as a lifelong Alexander County resident, told the board during public comment that his grandmother has signed off on the Sterling Road paving project but opposes a proposed turnaround in her front yard. "She has made it clear to everyone involved ... that she does not want a turnaround in her front yard," Miller said, and asked commissioners to hold a comprehensive meeting to negotiate either an alternate location or compensation.

Miller said he has been in talks with the Western Piedmont Council of Governments and county personnel about possible solutions and that he is "on board with the road" because paving would benefit landowners and the county. He asked the county to consider sending staff and commissioners to inspect potential alternative turnaround spots and to continue negotiations so his grandmother will be satisfied.

The chair acknowledged the comment and noted the public-comment protocol; no formal action or vote on the Sterling Road design occurred during the meeting. The board’s agenda later included an interlocal agreement with the town of Taylor related to Sterling Road condemnation costs on the consent agenda, which the commission approved.

The next procedural step for the Sterling Road project was not decided on the floor; Miller asked for a follow-up meeting and for county staff to continue discussions with landowners and the Council of Governments.