Brandon Williams

The board discussed a variance request for a property located at 265 East James Circle to permit a manufactured home, which was approved with conditions. Additionally, the board considered a rezoning request from residential agricultural to general commercial for a retail and fuel station development at the intersection of Highway 81 East and Keys Ferry Road, discussing soil suitability for septic systems and the alignment of the project with local land use designations.

The board meeting included several recognitions, proclamations, and presentations. Employees were recognized for their years of service, and certificates of recognition were presented for community contributions. Proclamations were made for National Public Works Week, National Emergency Medical Services Week, and for the community service of the Henry County Alumni Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Additionally, the board received a presentation regarding the HBCU Smart Cities program and its stormwater solution. The consent agenda included a water and sewer availability contract, an agreement with Kaiser Permanente for the splash program at the aquatic center, and the acceptance of donations from Kaiser Permanente and the United States Secret Service Atlanta Field Office Cyber Fraud Task Force.

The ceremony focused on departmental promotions and the presentation of various emergency medical service awards. Promotions were conferred upon personnel across different ranks, accompanied by the administration of the fire officer oath. EMS awards were presented to recognize exceptional clinical performance in diverse scenarios, including childbirth, pediatric burns, traumatic injuries, and cardiac emergencies, highlighting the commitment of the department to safeguarding public health and safety.

The board meeting served as a public hearing for the adoption of the millage rate and included a presentation on the fiscal year 2025 budget. Key topics included a proposed 3-mill increase to fund police and fire department personnel, equipment, capital projects such as a new E911 facility and fire training facility, and future infrastructure needs. The tax commissioner provided a detailed overview of the millage rate, the impact of the property tax digest process, homestead exemptions, and historical context on tax rates for residents.

The board discussed the proposed fiscal year 2027 budget, which was developed with a focus on fiscal responsibility amidst economic challenges such as slowing revenue growth and unpredictable federal and state aid. Key discussion topics included maintaining the current mill rate, structural changes to expenses to ensure long-term sustainability, and the allocation of funds to align with the county's 20-year strategic plan, including priority initiatives for public safety, infrastructure, and standardized service delivery. The meeting also covered the impact of the county's homestead exemption, the use of fund balance to support the budget, and the status of several capital projects.