Ashley Cason

The meeting included the adoption of ordinances to rezone a property, authorize amendments to the On-Bill Financing Program, and create a Main Street Advisory Board. A public hearing was held regarding the FY2026 Community Development Block Grant for a new family violence shelter, leading to the approval of related resolutions for submittal and compliance. Furthermore, a resolution was passed to distribute Local Option Sales Tax funds for recreation activities among several surrounding towns.

The meeting addressed amendments to public utility rates based on the Consumer Price Index, acceptance of real property for Remington Avenue Improvements, and ratification of a Public Service Apprenticeship Program Award. Also discussed were the approval of the first amendment to the Remington Park Exterior Landscape Maintenance Agreement, acceptance of contributions to the Thomasville Police Department and the City's Water and Wastewater Departments, and the awarding of a bid for the 2025 Stormwater Improvement Project. The council considered resolutions for the adoption of the City of Thomasville FY2026 Proposed Budget, including departmental fee schedules and utility rates, and formally supported the preservation, renewal, and/or expansion of the Georgia State Income Tax Credit Program for Rehabilitated Historic Property Program.

The meeting commenced with recognitions, including a Congressional Record commemorating the City of Thomasville's Bicentennial Celebration and congratulations for Fire Chief Tim Connell on receiving the 2025 Georgia Fire Chief of the Year award. During the Citizens to be Heard segment, discussions focused on resident concerns regarding achieving 100% renewable energy by 2035 and the complexity of utility bills related to solar arrays. Old business primarily consisted of second readings and subsequent adoptions of six separate ordinances to rezone various properties into the Traditional Neighborhood Infill Zoning District (TNID), as well as the adoption of an ordinance amending the Pawnbrokers chapter of the City Code. New business included the first readings of ordinances to transfer real property from the City to the Thomasville Payroll Development Authority (PDA) for subsequent conveyance to GPS Trailers, deannexation of 2410 Old Monticello Road, and the annexation and rezoning of 104 Stratford Way. The Council also heard the first readings of four additional ordinances proposing rezoning properties to TNID. Reports noted that February is Black History Month with planned trivia events and that leadership expressed gratitude for the Bicentennial recognition.

This document outlines the City of Thomasville's Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Transition Plan to ensure compliance with Title II of the ADA. The plan focuses on identifying and removing barriers to accessibility in all City programs, services, and activities. Key components include ongoing self-evaluation of facilities and policies, establishing clear procedures for addressing discrimination complaints, encouraging public involvement, and committing to annual reviews and updates to achieve and maintain full accessibility for individuals with disabilities.

The discussion centered on the 30th anniversary of the Wildlife Arts Festival, noting that over $5 million has been raised for arts education and outreach over the past 30 years. The festival will feature 48 wildlife artists, including painters, sculptors, jewelers, scratchboard artists, and carvers, with free admission for the public on Saturday and Sunday. The event will also include an artisan market, live music, demonstrations, youth walkabout stations, food trucks, and a junior art competition for students. Additionally, a free speaker series featuring authors, photographers, and gallerists will take place, including discussions on starting an art collection and land and lore topics. The involvement of Senovas as the premier sponsor was highlighted for supporting the economic impact and promoting Thomasville.