County settles land sale violations for $60K
RUSSELLVILLE — The Franklin County Commission is moving forward with a settlement tied to a controversial land development after officials said the company violated subdivision rules by selling property before getting approval.
During a work session last week, commissioners discussed an agreement with Classic Country Land, the company behind a large development near the Coon Dog Cemetery area. County Attorney Evan Hargett told commissioners the issue centers on the company selling lots before the property was legally approved as a subdivision.
Hargett said the county had the option to pursue penalties totaling about $151,000. Instead, he recommended settling the matter for $60,000. Under the agreement, the company must pay the amount within 60 days with the timeline beginning once the agreement is signed.
Officials said the settlement avoids a legal fight while still holding the developer accountable.
During the meeting, Probate Judge Barry Moore clarified the agreement only resolves the penalties tied to past actions. Any future development plans for the property would still have to go through the normal approval process and meet all county subdivision regulations.
The development tied to the case has been marketed as a large rural property project with about 150 lots spread across more than 1,100 acres. Some of the lots have already been sold, even though county officials say the required subdivision steps were not completed beforehand.
Under Alabama law, developers must submit detailed plans for review before selling land as part of a subdivision. This includes making sure the property meets requirements for roads, drainage and access for emergency services. Final approval must come from the county commission.
One of the key concerns raised by officials is access. Subdivisions are required to have a public road so emergency vehicles can reach the property. Without those, buyers could face challenges reaching their land or getting basic services.
The property had been listed online as off grid land with flexible financing options and direct sales to buyers. However, the listing is no longer available on the company’s website.
Pricing information from earlier listings showed lots ranging from just over $24,000 for about five acres to nearly $140,000 for more than 28 acres. That put prices at roughly $5,000 per acre.
Data from early 2026 shows the average value of rural land in Alabama is significantly lower, generally falling between $3,500 and $4,500 per acre depending on location and use.
County leaders have said their main concern is making sure developments follow the law and that buyers are protected.
The company is now expected to begin working with the county’s engineering office to submit proper plans for any future developments. Those plans would then require full review and approval before lots can be sold.
