City of Hartwell

The board reviewed and accepted the financial report. The director provided an update on training and presented the 2026 budget, which includes funding for a summer intern. Additionally, the board recommended the addition of a new member to the DDA and discussed plans for a luncheon to recognize volunteers and public works staff.

The Commission held a public hearing to review a conditional use request for a drive-through facility at a specific tax parcel. The discussion included a presentation by the project engineer regarding the suitability of the location for a drive-through, the intent to construct a multi-tenant outparcel, and inquiries regarding site access and the layout of the proposed drive-through. The request was ultimately recommended for approval.

The meeting covered the approval of previous minutes, and an announcement regarding the rescheduling of a joint meeting with the Board of County Commissioners to discuss the city's TSPLOST project proposal. Key agenda items included the second reading and unanimous approval of the revised animal control ordinance, which aims to enhance enforcement capabilities for nuisance animals. The council also heard the first reading of a Zoning Case (2025-14) concerning an annexation request for properties related to Lake Russell Building Supply, with the Zoning Board recommending B-2 General Business District zoning. Discussions on TSPLOST strategy identified the "Howell to Powell" street connection as the preferred project to address traffic congestion. Citizens raised concerns regarding broader regional traffic flow and specific local road connections. Public comments also addressed concerns about high employee turnover within the police department and clarified the city's position on temporary signage like feather flags.

The council meeting agenda was updated to include a GIC update. Key actions included the denial of a request to annex parcels on Parkdale Road for a proposed 113-home development, following concerns raised regarding traffic impact and infrastructure strain on sewer systems. Conditional approval was granted for a drive-through commercial development between Home Depot and Walmart, with access routed via the internal frontage road. The first reading of a proposed update to the Animal Control Ordinance, including specific standards for animal welfare, was introduced for public review. Discussions occurred regarding enforcement consistency of the city's sign ordinance, especially concerning feather flags, leading to an agreement for improved communication rather than immediate formal action. The council approved the Downtown Development Authority's recommendation to appoint Ms. Ellen East to fill a board vacancy. Council Member Sheller was appointed as the city's representative to the Georgia Mountain Regional Commission council. Further discussion focused on converting the temporary lease arrangement for the Hartwell Lakeside Resort to a permanent assignment to Unhitched RV, authorizing negotiations for a formal Assignment and Assumption Agreement. An on-premise and off-premise alcohol license for Southern Origins Meadery was approved. A GIC update detailed completed housing projects and preservation work, along with budget allocation status for various grants. A citizen requested a review of the city's election process regarding the potential transition to an at-large model.

The meeting agenda was adopted. Key discussions included commendation for the outstanding effort on the Monster Mash event, which saw over 1,100 participants despite a change in venue and weather. The financial report was accepted, noting two pending deposits. The Director reported on two forthcoming awards: one based on a Main Street project that is not yet publicly announced, and the 2025 Association of Public and Land-grant Universities' Innovation & Economic Prosperity Award for work done in Hartwell. The board approved entering into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with the University of Georgia's Look Ahead Georgia program to onboard an intern, allowing the Executive Director to sign the document. Updates were provided on successful fall festival efforts, including the scarecrow festival, Ladies Night Out, and Mayor's Monster Mash. The board discussed planning a future luncheon to thank volunteers and public works staff.