Chilton County rescinds inmate-phone award to Smart Communications, keeps sheriff on current contract

The Chilton County Commission voted unanimously May 12 to rescind a prior bid award to Smart Communications for inmate phone services after commissioners and staff raised concerns about the vendor’s recent legal and financial history.

According to remarks read into the record by the county attorney and commissioners, Smart Communications had filed bankruptcy in 2024 and again in 2025 and is involved in internal litigation over control of the company’s shares. Commissioners described those developments as evidence that Smart Communications was not a "responsible bidder" and moved to rescind the award and the prior acceptance of the bid.

After rescinding the award, the commission unanimously authorized the sheriff’s office to continue operating under its existing phone contract to avoid disruption in services while staff undertake further review and, if appropriate, a re-bid process.

Commissioners said the motion to rescind will be drafted with specific findings for the record and the county will seek to ensure procurement actions are defensible. No timeline was set at the meeting for rebidding or re-evaluation.