Two Valhermoso Springs residents appeared before the Morgan County Commission to lodge complaints about the condition of Bower’s Road and ask improvements to be made at a regular meeting March 10.

Edward Jackson, who lives at 142 Bower’s Road, described the 2.9-mile road as being only partially paved and having potholes that need to be repaired and large trees in rights-of-way that should be removed.

“I met with Commissioner Greg Abercrombie some time ago and requested that the road be paved,” Jackson said. “Part of the road was paved and I was told the paving crew would come back later to finish the job. So far that hasn’t happened.”

Jackson also said he is concerned about five large trees that are located in the road right-of-way.

“I measured their diameter and distance from the roadway,” he said. “They’re over 20 inches in diameter and their distance from the roadway ranges from 18 inches to five feet.

“Nineteen families live on the road and school buses uses it,” he said. It’s unsafe for a bus and a car to pass. One day, a wreck will happen and someone will be injured or killed. That would be unfortunate.”

Sam Chapman, a member of Mt. Moriah United Methodist Church, which is located on one end of the road, supported Jackson’s complaint.

“A circle of the road that serves the church isn’t paved,” he said, “and it is used regularly by church members. We would appreciate any help you can offer.”

“Bower’s Road is in Commissioner Abercrombie’s plans for additional work,” said Commission Chairman Ray Long.  “I suggest that you meet with him again to get an update.”

“The commissioners work together as a team,” he said, “but final decisions on district matters are in the hands of the district commissioner.”