Becky Bohannon

The Commission received various reports from members regarding local community events and projects. Key actions included the approval of a new Conflict of Interest and Code of Conduct Procurement Policy, the authorization to purchase four vehicles for the Police Department, and the adoption of the Georgia Municipal Association Direct Lease Program for financing equipment. A monthly financial report was presented. Additionally, following public comment regarding the schedule of the Ida Cox Concert Series, the Commission directed staff to re-establish the series for the months of June and July.

The City Commission held a meeting to address various municipal matters, including the receipt of audit reports and updates on community events from commissioners. The Commission imposed penalties, including a fine and license suspension, on a local business for underage alcohol sales. Public hearings were conducted regarding variance requests for property on Shady Street and Washington Street, both of which were approved. Additionally, the Commission declared a hydraulic extrication tool as surplus property for donation to the Pierce County Fire Department and approved rescheduling the second meeting in May due to the Memorial Day holiday.

The commission held a budget meeting to discuss the FY2027 Proposed Operating Budget, noting a decrease due to the completion of one-time capital projects while emphasizing ongoing operational and utility costs. Key discussion items included rising operational expenses, reserve requirements, and specific departmental requests such as additional Fire Department staffing, police shift differentials, and equipment purchases for Public Works, Water & Wastewater, Natural Gas, and Solid Waste. Additionally, the commission discussed employee incentives and benefits, landscaping and beautification improvements, Lake Toccoa facility operations, fee adjustments, and various contracts and funding authorizations, including support for the 250th Anniversary banners and the Humane Shelter.

The commission convened to consider and approve bids for third-party inspections regarding the Ritz Addition project. The commission voted unanimously to accept the proposal from L.E. Burnett & Associates, LLC for $22,870.00.

The commission received reports regarding local development projects at the Ritz and community events commemorating the Band of Brothers. Discussions included the Fire Department's emergency response, a presentation from the All Airborne Battalion regarding Camp Toccoa training and historical preservation, and Humane Shelter operational statistics. The commission issued a proclamation for American Legion Post 104 Day and approved a lease agreement with the Norfolk Southern Railway.