Posted by redneckpeaches (anonymous) on April 12, 2009 at 6:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

As a resident of "exit 200" I'd like to know who Carl Mims thinks he is? Does he live in the area that the industrial park is? My family does. My family has lived here for more that 40 years. We moved here for "the country way of life".
How dare he assume that we here in Verbena want "developement" at "exit 200"! As a matter of fact we like it just the way it is! Now, I'm am no means against progress, however, not in my peaceful backyard! I can see that this industrial park is just another one in half dozen other industrial parks in the county that are more than half empty. What makes him think that this place will sell? With the lack of a county sewer system, (to the best of my knowledge), I worry about the pollution that will certainly affect the watertable in the area and families who can't afford to hook up to county water that still have wells in the neighborhood. And last but not least, how will this affect our property values? Increased traffic? Time will tell. My point is, who asked us? I certaintly wasn't asked. What will Mr. Mims do to give back to the neighborhood he's impossed his self on? How about jobs? What say you Mr. Mims?

A resident of "exit 200".

Posted by kwsrgraves (anonymous) on April 12, 2009 at 7:31 p.m. (Suggest removal)

That is what you get when you elect county commissioners who oppose property zoning. People are against someone telling them what the can and cannot do on their own property. I feel your pain. We have a trailer park nearby that decreased our property value by 1/3. Then the city of Clanton annexed a pecan orchard and HELPED a noisy water polluting concrete plant to be built. All I can say is LIVE with it.

Posted by gonefishen (anonymous) on April 12, 2009 at 8:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Nothing like waking up to the sounds of concrete forms being cleaned at 5:00 AM. Oh just a side note, Carl works for CAEC, he is not a county commissioner and happens to be a nice individual. I would like to know how much the "Spec Building" (empty shell) cost the tax paying residents of our county?

Posted by gonefishen (anonymous) on April 12, 2009 at 8:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

The way this article was written, one is given the impression that CAEC not Chilton County is building this eyesore.

Posted by eagle1 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 8:42 a.m. (Suggest removal)

rednex, you need to talk to CAEC about your problem instead of bad-mouthing Mr. Mims. Change is inevitable, get use to it, or move.

Posted by chiltontransplant (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 9:06 a.m. (Suggest removal)

What does Carl Mims have to do with this? He is just a local manager at CAEC. He answers to a VP who answers to a president who answers to a board of directors. I'm sure Carl appreciates the flattery, but I can assure you he doesn't have the authority to develop and build a multi-million dollar facility.

Posted by southernpride (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 10:05 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Redneck and people like him or her are the problem with this county. Anytime you live close to an interstate, you can expect growth. It is a natural thing. If you wanted a peaceful country life, you should of moved in to the country not along the interstate!!!

You ask who does Mr. Mims think he is assuming people in Verbena want growth, I say he is stating what most reasonable people want. My question is, "Who do you think you are assuming that others here in Verbena don't want the growth?"

Thank goodness eagale1 seems to have the right idea.

I don't mean to be rude to anyone, but stop saying stupid sounding things. If one wants to live in the country where there is peace and quite, one should not live near and interstate and think at some point and time, modern things such as developement and growth is not coming to their neck of the woods!!!!!!

Posted by steve42 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 10:32 a.m. (Suggest removal)

"I worry about the pollution that will certainly affect the watertable in the area and families who can't afford to hook up to county water that still have wells in the neighborhood."

This will be an INDUSTRIAL park, not a factory. The INDUSTRIES that will locate there will have to meet all ADEM and EPA guidelines for anything they put into the septic fields. In most cases, the water that is allowed to be returned to the water table from industry is cleaner than it was when they took the water out of the supply pipes.

This kind of misinformation makes the people of Verbena look like uneducated hicks. This is the same kind of doom and gloom scare tactic as the two farmers I heard in a Clanton coffee shop a few years ago talking about how extending the runway at the airport would be bad because "those jets have to dump all that diesel fuel before they can land."

Unlike the other industrial parks in the area, this one is actually near the interstate which makes it desirable to businesses. Who wants to exit the interstate and drive 10 miles through a small town to get to an industrial park?

Besides, look at the employment potential. CAEC and any other company that locates there will need skilled blue collar workers (maybe even UNION workers, right kw?) to build and potentially staff their facilities.

The goal should be to encourage the companies to participate responsibly in the community. Encourage them to tread lightly, to help maintain the roads, plant grass and trees and use attractive barrier fences and shrubs to protect the view from the roads.

You've got a junkyard growing right on CR59 that I haven't seen a SINGLE editorial or comment about. The environmental and scenic impact of that eyesore could be light years worse than a few metal buildings and chain link fences.

Posted by kwsrgraves (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 10:34 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Used to be, we were 3 miles out of the city limits. Now we're 1/2 mile. Without zoning, anyone can build anything, anywhere. Back in the 60s, when people bought land in Verbena, the interstate was not there. Industrial growth can happen anywhere. Without zoning, it could happen next to you. Or maybe a Port-a-John storage facility could move next door. A trailer park, muslim mosque, etc..

Posted by eagle1 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 12:19 p.m. (Suggest removal)

You know, it just hit me. Rednex has got some weed growin out there! That's why they don't want ANYTHING or ANYBODY in the hood! AH, HA!

Posted by steve42 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 12:44 p.m. (Suggest removal)

"Back in the 60s, when people bought land in Verbena, the interstate was not there. "

Agreed, but the fact that the interstate would run right there had been established years earlier. Perhaps that's why the property was up for sale in the 60s?!?!?

I agree that zoning would be a good thing, but that would almost be an acceptance of progress, and we can't have that. We've beat that horse many times before.

Ain't no one goner tell me I cain't park all the trucks I've ever owned in the front yard and haul in old house trailers to dismantle in front of mah house. It's mah proppity and I'd whatever I want to on it! Now, git on and let me get back to building mah new hog pen.

Posted by kwsrgraves (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 1:06 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Well said Steve. But many people also inherited property and stayed there. Personally, I prefer light industry over trailer parks. That's just me. Not knocking individual trailer owners, I lived in one for 1 year. But having these eyesores pop up with 30 trailers, trash and junk scattered everywhere hurst everyone for miles.

Posted by eagle1 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 2:15 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Hurst, I haven't heard that one for a while. Had one in my 72 Chevelle Malibu.

Posted by southernpride (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 2:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Stteve, you make some great points. I agree zoning laws would be of help but as pointed out already, the smae nuts that object toa progress would object to this progress as well.

I live and work in this county and hate to see it always being the laughing stock of the area as people think we are all just a bunch of dumb hicks. Some of us are not dumb hicks.

Posted by chiltontransplant (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 2:51 p.m. (Suggest removal)

What exactly has to happen before property zoning can be implemented in our county? Is it a commission decision, a vote of the people - Both or neither?

Posted by steve42 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 3:04 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I believe that zoning, like everything else that happens at the county level, would have to go onto the ballot and it would probably be a statewide vote. You know, like when we have to vote on whether or not Baldwin County can change a tax distribution.

I'm almost certain such a vote would fail. There are too many people who feel it's their birthright to build a leanto on their doublewide or stockpile every rding mower they've owned since the 1960s.

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 3:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

steve42: The industrial park in Lomax was supposed to be just an industrial park, too, not a factory. Later, an asphalt plant was built there, with the associated noise, dust, and potential of fuel and liquid asphalt contamination. Go take a look at it. I think you might be faciltating some "misinformation" yourself. Now, I realize that you think that more is better and too much is not enough, but the residents who live in that area have a legitimate complaint. I don't know where you were 40 years ago, but I was right around Clanton and there was no reason then to expect this type of blight to explode in our area, even at the 205 exit, much less at the 200. Individual rights mean absolutely nothing anymore. Individuals get the finger every time if there is the slightest possibility that someone could make a dollar off of their misfortune. I'm sure, though, that you are so civic minded that if the county decided to build, oh, say a land fill near your property, thus destroying the value of it and making it un-marketable or making your quality of life at home non-existant, that you would just say "I'm just so proud to be able to do my part for progress, never mind that I've virtually lost one of my life's investments". Some of you people are so very willing to destroy what others have worked most of their lives for, and for what? The slight possibility that you might get a chance to make a dollar. You really should try walking in someone elses' shoes before you throw them to the curb. Some things are more important than 'self'. Of course, I realize that is a difficult concept for the Chamber of Commerce types.

Posted by kwsrgraves (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 4:36 p.m. (Suggest removal)

So, November, I take that last comment to mean you are in favor of property zoning in the county if it regulates industry? Because, I promise you, if someone could get their hands on our old homeplaces, they will, and place trailers/trailer parks there. Just like the other eyesores of industrial parks. As with the one at the 205 exit, one or two businesses move in, take advantage of tax breaks and local government developemet of property, then opertate 10 to 15 years and leave a mess. There was a paving company in Clanton across from the Petro station. The City forced them to clean up and move. They moved to County Road 47 next to Maple Springs Church and trashed the place up. Oil, asphalt by products and fuel soaking into the natural springs there. When it rains, you can see the oil on the water. The county has no way or desire to correct this blight. Then the commission has the audacity to try and entice businesses to come to Chilton County. This commission is fastly becoming a FAILURE as far as the needs and requests of the voters. I spoke with two Commissioners in January about zoning. One was absolutely against it and the other in favor of it. But the one against it has sworn to me before, "that no way in helck would it ever happen". He also said, "we need less government, and zoning will NOT happen." While less government is a great "IDEA" it is obvious that people cannot do their part in regulating themselves. I don't see zoning as expanding government in a grand scheme to control people's thoughts and lives.

Posted by danwright (Dan Wright) on April 13, 2009 at 4:39 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I see both sides of the argument and both make good points.

Nov., your post explains why some type of zoning needs to be in place. Zoning can take on whatever form the people want. It can be as simple as residential, commercial, industrial, etc. with no restrictions on what is in the front yard.

There are those that live here that want more, and there are those that want less. The only solution is to set aside certain parcels of property for the growth that is inevitable. There will always be the "family property" that will be sold for a hefty check as soon as "Granny" passes. Has been that way for years and will continue to be.

The only way to control growth is through proper planning and smart growth. This requires zoning and planning. People don't want to live in the city limits and that is fine, but I don't have to worry about that trailer park or industrial park where I live. Even if someone wanted to change the zoning the residents would at least be given a chance to fight. Those that live in the unincorporated areas have absolutely no voice.

I am certain there are a lot of rules that I am not aware of with this issue but I think if our elected "leaders" would go about this the proper way it would pass.

Of course, this is just my opinion.

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 4:50 p.m. (Suggest removal)

We've needed county wide zoning for years. It is a necessary evil. Unfortunately, the County Commission would never write zoning rules that would prevent industrial parks, so it wouldn't prevent this debacle. But, it could prevent people from destroying other peoples' property values by living like swine on their own property. But, of course, zoning rules are no good unless they are enforced. The City of Clanton has all sorts of rules that they arbitrarily enforce, or not at all. So, yes, I am in favor of county wide zoning, but they will never regulate industry, they wear out too many knee pads to get industry here, so they'll never be an iritant to it. I understand your pain with the concrete plant, trailer park, etc., that have blighted your neighborhood. That used to be my neighborhood, too, and I hate to see it.

Posted by kwsrgraves (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 6:11 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I blame the City of Clanton for the concrete plant. They annexed the property and pushed this garbage into place. They are 100% responsible for that eye/EAR sore. I could hear the buzzers and motors over my spa motors/jets at 10pm. I believe they have cut second shift for now. But the lights are on all night blocking out the stars. Not to mention ruining a pecan orchard, the trucks have destroyed the rail crossing, and destroying a natural wetland. As for the trailer parks, well...trailer park. Enough said.

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on April 13, 2009 at 7:35 p.m. (Suggest removal)

There you have it. Further evidence that individual rights are a thing of the past. The Chamber of Commerce types don't give a rat's patuty about you, or me. What they care about is being able to stand up on a stump and say "look what I did. I brought in all of these factories (that will probably soon be mostly idle), I brought in all of these restaurants, I caused all of this traffic." And most fools will applaud them. But, make no mistake, how it affects you, your family, or your property value in a negative way is of absolutely no consequence to them. This is "progress". Oh, and by the way, growth is inevitable. That's supposed to make you feel better and think it's OK. Crime is inevitable, too, but that doesn't mean it's a good thing.

Posted by southernpride (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 8:38 a.m. (Suggest removal)

So no one wants growth around there area it seems. Only fools do.

I bet your job is somewhere near someone's house. So why don't you quit that job since it helps interfer with the local homeowners.

As much hate as I have for more government, zoning laws may help. But then you will be faced with the good ole boy system in deciding what is or is not zoned for certain things.

By the way, isnce the restaruants bother you, why do you eat at them? I bet this is the case of someone that wants to complain but still wants to enjoy the benefits.

Posted by Jax (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 8:54 a.m. (Suggest removal)

All points are very well stated. I happen to work for a company that has only been here in the county for 10 years. When the company built here there were some homes nearby that are still here and they were not happy because of the additional traffic that is up and down the road. So our company stresses to all employees to be safe and respectful to people around us. However this place has given a lot of job opportunities to people in this county, So I am a bit torn on this subject. And this is just a tidbit for fun...you know how everyone says shop Chilton County first...well it's like trying to get water out of a stump to get people in this county to do business with our company.

Posted by kittycreek (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 9:21 a.m. (Suggest removal)

I have trouble shopping in Chilton County. Not much selection. I shop at the Milbrook Walmart most of the time, because Clanton Walmart is more expensive on a lot of items and has a more limited selection too. I'd love to spend my money in my home County, however, If I have to pay more for gas and groceries, I'm better off to make my puchases before I get home.

Posted by kittycreek (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 9:31 a.m. (Suggest removal)

The point is, revenue flows out of this county because there such a few shopping and dining choices. There are few jobs here, so everyone commutes to another city.

I do wish more businesses would come to this county. If this county really started to boom, our property value would be climbing.

Posted by eagle1 (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 10:03 a.m. (Suggest removal)

Jax, what is the name of the company you work for?

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 2:22 p.m. (Suggest removal)

southernpride: You seem awfully easy to tweak, so let me give it another go at you.
I don't work near anyone's house. I rarely even work near Alabama and I like it just fine that way. My job doesn't require that someone elses' property value or quality of life be deminished or destroyed. As for eating at the restaurants around Clanton, well, I think the newest one that I eat at has been here more that fifteen years in one form or another so I really just don't understand your point.

Posted by southernpride (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 2:24 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I agree with you kittycreek. However, with the dry county issue and crazy backwards thinking of some of our citizens who always oppose progress such as ocming out of the 1800's, things will not change.

People here don't even know or abide by the rules of the road. For expample, on the four lane, people drive in th e passing lane constantly and refuse to get over to allow someone to pass. The inside lane is not a "fast lane" IT IS a "Passing Lane"!!

You can do anything in this county that would of gotten you blackballed only a decade or so ago, but do not invite growth or drink a beer outside the city limits or you are to be crucified!!!!

Posted by TheDude (Michael Wells) on April 14, 2009 at 3:09 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Dang southernpride, to pass someone, you gotta be goin' faster ...

Posted by steve42 (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 3:38 p.m. (Suggest removal)

I don't stand to make a penny off this or any other industrial park. There's not a business in this county that is willing to pay my required salary. I will have to drive past it every day on my way to work. It doesn't worry me though. It's not like the truck traffic is going to mess up the fine paving job on CR59.

As for pollutants in the ground water, it seems I hear someone in town railing on the farmers about the chemicals in the ground water and the potential causes for cancer at least once a month. I don't see anyone asking the farmers not to plant another peach orchard.

I don't recall any complaints from the locals when the sand pit was built on CR 24. That's apparently progress we can stand.

I don't have to worry too much about land fills, as the county had a perfectly good one that got shut down and now we're making our trash Shelby County' s business.

Posted by southernpride (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 3:55 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Yes Dude you are correct. The inside lane however is for passing only and not to ttravel in the whole time you are on the fourlane. This is driver's ed 101. Read the driving maual published by the state and you will find this to be correct.

Posted by southernpride (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 3:57 p.m. (Suggest removal)

Also, when you are in the passing lane and refuse to get over, you cause people to pass you by using the left lane as a passing lane. This dangerous and is why the law has marked the inside lane as a passing lane not a travel lane.

Posted by November162000 (anonymous) on April 14, 2009 at 6:30 p.m. (Suggest removal)

steve42: If you didn't hear me complaining about the gravel pit on CR24, then you weren't listening. The only thing the county gets out of that operation is torn up roads. The chowder heads that run our county could AT LEAST see to it that weight limits are observed for the bridges that the trucks cross with their overloaded trucks. And, don't be too sure that a landfill won't show up in your backyard, eventually Shelby County will wise up and tell us to bury our own trash.

And, southernpride, you are absolutely corrct about the left lane on limited access or interstate highways. It is an over-taking and passing lane, not a travleing lane. But, people can't even seem to operate turn signals, they'll never get this concept through their gourds.