Burke County

The Finance Committee meeting addressed several bid openings and reviews. Two bids were forwarded to the Board of Commissioners meeting scheduled for February 10, 2026, for review and recommendation. The bid for Solid Waste Transfer and Disposal Services was extended by seven days, with a potential called meeting discussed for February 16, 2026, to review bids. The committee unanimously approved an application for a CDBG-DR grant intended for gym renovations/expansion and a CDBG grant for a community building at Gough Park, utilizing $1.25 million in previously discussed SPLOST matching funds. The committee also reviewed the check runs for the month of January.

The Called Meeting primarily addressed two subjects. First, proposals for Solid Waste management services were opened, and the County Manager indicated that copies would be distributed for review before scheduling a work session for further discussion. The second major topic involved the Recreation Department's request to assume responsibility for the annual fireworks show, as the Downtown Development Authority (DDA) will no longer manage it. After a discussion regarding the administrative and fundraising burden, the consensus was for the Exchange Club President to consult with the Exchange Club about assuming administrative oversight and fundraising responsibilities in partnership with the Rotary Club.

Key discussions and actions during the meeting included the award of bids for Stone Haul and Crusher Run materials to Jackie Lovett Trucking and Vulcan, respectively. The Board unanimously approved the rezoning of Parcel 064-030A from A1 to R1. Approval was also granted for the Radiological Emergency Preparedness Plans for Plant Vogtle and SRS. A Task Order for the Runway Pavement Project was approved, along with requests to hire several personnel, including seven Fire / EMT students, two part-time laborers, one Heavy Equipment Operator II, and authorization to fill an Administrative Assistant II position. A budget amendment of $9,120.00 for EMA thermal imaging equipment was approved, as was a Change Order for the Airport Terminal Septic System requiring a lift station. A resolution regarding the Consolidation of Probate & Magistrate Courts was tabled pending a work session. Litigation matters were discussed in executive session, and subsequent authorization was granted for the Sheriff to negotiate a settlement for pending litigation with GA Gazette.

Key discussions during the meeting involved reviewing and adopting millage rates for the upcoming period, resulting in an adopted motion that set rates for unincorporated areas at 3.478, incorporated areas at 3.639, the school district at 10.50, and the fire district at 2.00. The board also discussed the county's broadband network vision presented by Planters Telephone, including the recommendation to establish specialized long-term positions. Furthermore, the board approved authorizing the posting and hiring for a new broadband position. The commissioners reviewed the job description for the County Manager position due to the current manager's upcoming retirement and voted to approve posting the position for applications. Finally, the need for a dedicated facility management position at the Burke County Airport to oversee fuel systems, grounds maintenance, and leasing was addressed, and the board approved advertising this position.

The meeting commenced with the unanimous approval of the agenda and the selection of board officers for 2026. Key discussions included public opposition to the renaming of Murphy Street, a request for matching grant approval from the Downtown Development Authority for a public restrooms project, and approval for closing McManus Road for an annual dirt bike race, pending an updated insurance agreement. Bids were awarded for the Ball Field Infield Renovation to Turfwell Athletic Fields and for culvert pipe to Cherokee Culvert. A conditional use permit for a Battery Energy Storage System on Parcel 047-006 was approved with stipulations. A Class "B" Beer & Wine license was approved for Neelam Patel. The Board approved the 2026 Qualifying Fee notice and ratified a Change Order for the Animal Shelter addition. Adjustments were made to Transit's ADA Compliance Policy and fare structure, including increased fares for most passenger categories. Approvals were granted to fill several vacant positions across Facilities Maintenance, Clerk of Court, and the Road Department. The Board also approved the sale of old Avaya phones to Douglas County and made reappointments and new appointments to the Library Board. Following an executive session to discuss litigation matters, the Board authorized the County Attorney to initiate the removal of an abandoned airplane from airport property.