6 Months at the Helm

My Reflections on Leadership and Progress in Houston County

Six months ago, tomorrow, I was sworn in as Chairman of Houston County. So far, I’ve loved every day that I’ve had to privilege to serve in this role. I have a great commission, and we get along well, which makes the job even more enjoyable.

The first few days were surreal. While that feeling has worn off, my excitement from serving has not.

Six Month Update

Given that tomorrow is the six months mark, I thought I’d update you on things we’ve been working on.

The Farm Center

I was in an auto parts store a week ago. A customer and an employee mentioned their excitement about the county keeping the Farm Center. But what excites people most is our desire to bring the Farm Center Arena back to life.

I’m unwilling to delve into too many specifics because nothing is yet set in stone. But in general, the plan is to refurbish the arena building and make it available for a Farmer’s Market and as an event space. In addition, businesses and citizens will be able to rent the arena for several events. I can’t wait to attend a concert or see a wrestling match in the historic structure.

County Buildings

Historically, the county has been very spread out in terms of buildings. That’s a lot of roofs and HVAC systems that need regular replacement.

But in the first few weeks in office, I formed a building committee to develop a more strategic approach to our needs for space. While we are still in the early stages of this journey, I’m confident that in the end, the county will have a much more energy-efficient footprint and one that requires less maintenance.

Invested $1.5M in Emergency Responders

We’ve given $750,000 each to the volunteer fire and rescue squads. But this wasn’t just a handout without any accountability. The Commission set very stringent guidelines on what the money could be spent on and how the expenses were to be reported.

The investment brings the volunteers up to speed on their ability to manage emergencies and how well their finances are documented. Sound fiscal management is essential since the volunteer squads receive tax dollars.

County Vehicles

We’ve never had a policy dictating how employees should use (or not use) their government vehicle. However, just a week, we approved a policy that dictates guidelines for operating county vehicles.

Later this year, we will implement a program to increase compliance, lower fuel costs, and boost employee efficiency.

$20,000,000 in ARPA Funds

The ARPA program infused the county with over $20M of federal funds. While these funds are temporary, we’ve always wanted to use them to make permanent investments in the county. Thus far, we’ve earmarked the funds for the following projects:

• Admin Building Renovations - $5,000,000

• 231-South Water Lines - $5,000,000

• Sheriff’s Storage Building - $5,000,000

• Downtown Dothan Redevelopment - $1,000,000

• Industrial Property Acquisition - $900,000

• Fiber Optic Loop for County Facilities - $900,000

• Taylor Sewage Treatment Plant - $500,000

• Kinsey Sewage Treatment Plant - $500,000

• Rehobeth Sewer Expansion - $350,000

• Cowarts Sewer Improvements - $350,000

• Columbia Water Improvements - $200,000

• Ashford Well Project - $200,000

• Cottonwood Water Improvements - $200,000

• Webb Water Improvements - $200,000

• Non-profit Agency COVID Relief - $30,000

The management of these projects is ongoing. Some haven’t gotten off the ground, while others are nearing completion. This money won’t be fully expended until 2026.

. . .

That’s all for now. Till next time!