That’s the expected result after organizers there make improvements to the fields using $10,000 awarded to Saks Youth Activities, Inc. at a Calhoun County Commission meeting Thursday.
The commission and Rep. Randy Wood together supplied the funding, Wood by accessing an appropriation from the state Legislature’s general fund and the commission by accessing money from a fund set aside for parks.
“They just can’t make it on their own, they need a little boost,” said Calhoun County Commissioner J.D. Hess, who represents the Saks area.
The resolution passed by the commission authorizes organizers of Saks youth activities to use the money for “materials supplies (and) equipment.” Hess said the state money will likely pay for fencing projects, infield dirt and that it might be used to replace rotting electrical poles.
The funding might also be used to provide the organization with bats, balls, gloves and other equipment for general use. It’s important, he said, to make sure children have adequate youth athletic facilities and supplies.
“If you don’t play and exercise and have proper nutrition when you’re in school and all, you’re not going to learn as well,” Hess said. “Kids and youth need to be off the streets and in the ball field.”
Hess said the commission has supported the development of youth recreational facilities across the county.
Those in Cedar Springs, White Plains and Wellborn have also received funding from the commission.
Some have even benefited from hands-on labor provided by the commissioners themselves.
In other business, the commission:
• Approved an alcohol license application for Abbott’s Stop and Shop on Choccolocco Road in Anniston. Commissioner Rudy Abbott abstained from the vote citing a personal conflict: The store’s owners are kin to him.
• Declined to abate property at 225 Eagle Bald Road in Jacksonville and instead granted its owners 30 days more to clear it of debris.
• Declared property at 1412 Green Avenue in Jacksonville and 511 Howe Street in Weaver public nuisances.
• Dismissed nuisance declarations at 401 Weaver Lane in Weaver and 1000 Otsego Avenue in Weaver after property owners removed violations there.
• Heard a first reading for an Express Mart 17 alcohol application. The commission will vote on the matter at its next meeting.
• Levied all taxes for 2011. The act is an annual measure done to ensure the county can collect taxes as usual.
• Provided a cargo trailer to the Calhoun Missionary Baptist Association to be used during emergencies to assist county residents.
• Entered into an agreement with J.M. Wood Auction Company to sell county dump trucks and entered into an agreement with BancorpSouth in the amount of $1.2 million to finance new trucks.
• Entered into a homeland security grant agreement for $62,457 to buy an emergency response vehicle.
• Reappointed Echols Bryant to serve as the District 3 Calhoun County Water and Fire Protection Authority appointment.
• Appointed Phil Webb to serve on the McClellan Developmental Authority.
• Approved a task order for $766,982 with EOD Technology for MEC clearance.
Star staff writer Laura Johnson: 256-235-3544
