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By DAVE DOMESCIK | Staff Writer

COLUMBIANA – The Shelby County Commission held a regularly scheduled meeting on Monday, May 12, approving a range of items including bid awards, infrastructure agreements and a resolution supporting the implementation of a new community mental health officer program.

During the meeting, the commission awarded two key bids, including the purchase of erosion control materials and reflective safety apparel. The commission also approved the acquisition of a full-size, four-wheel-drive crew cab pickup truck for use in development services.

Commissioners then accepted the donation of two land tracts from the city of Hoover to support the Valleydale Road widening project, totaling over 6.5 acres. In another infrastructure item, the commission approved an annual right-of-way use agreement with Windstream Kinetic Fiber LLC, allowing the telecommunications provider to install and maintain fiber-optic infrastructure within county-controlled public spaces. The agreement outlines usage terms, safety standards and restoration responsibilities for any affected roadways or rights-of-way.

The meeting concluded with the commission approving a resolution supporting the implementation of a Community Mental Health Officer program in Shelby County. This initiative builds on the role of the county’s existing Community Mental Health Liaison, established in 2024.

The new CMHO will act as a dedicated link between law enforcement and mental health services, aiding in crisis intervention, reducing unnecessary psychiatric hospitalizations and supporting treatment coordination. The commission affirmed that Shelby County meets all requirements for the program, including designated facilities and personnel qualifications.

Zach Andrews, the county’s Community Mental Health liaison, was announced as the new CMHO at the meeting. The meeting was filled with community supporters and Shelby County employees in favor of the move.

“The ability to call Zach and to make the connection between mental health and law enforcement and to get that working together in unison immediately is invaluable,” Calera Chief of Police David Hyche said. “It’s going to save lives.”

For more information on the Shelby County Commission, visit Shelbyal.com/93/County-Commission.