Herman Middlebrooks

This workplan outlines the strategic direction for Downtown Swainsboro, focusing on three key transformation strategies. It aims to develop downtown into a family-friendly entertainment destination by renovating the Barbara & Tobe Karrh Community Arts Center, engaging community members, and organizing events. Concurrently, it seeks to enhance the area's appeal through architectural and design improvements, including maintaining seasonal decorations, promoting facade grants, conducting annual reviews for cleanliness, and installing murals. Finally, the plan emphasizes establishing strong partnerships with local schools, businesses, and community organizations to amplify the DDA's activities and impact.

The council discussed and approved an alcoholic beverage license application, Karrh Theater change orders, and the First Saturday Get Down event with street closures. They also considered repairs for lift station 17, Inert Landfill Limb and Debris Grinding, a Lead Service Line Inventory proposal, and the purchase of a new tag reader. Additionally, the council discussed moving their meetings to the Fire Department headquarters and addressed septic system issues at 125 East Main Street. They also considered an ordinance related to alcohol regulations, including home deliveries, and scheduled a special meeting to further discuss the ordinance.

The City Council convened for a meeting that included an executive session regarding employment matters. Following the executive session, the council considered and approved the hiring of a new Fire Chief, contingent on parameters set with the city administrator.

The council meeting addressed term limits and vacancies for elected officials, with a motion for the city attorney to draft an ordinance. Discussions included a special election for District 5, closing Lewis Street for the Wreaths of America program, and giving the retiring Police Chief his service revolver. The council approved the purchase of a new pump for lift station 11, replacement of the bar screen, and renting a front-end loader for Clearwater. They also approved yearly physicals for fire service employees and the advertisement of game room license applications. Additionally, the council considered applying for a workforce housing grant and approved a five-year contract with Clearwater Solutions. An executive session was held for an employment exception.

The council discussed a proposal for a laser scan of a building, a proposal to install school zone cameras, and the hiring of a new police officer. They also considered an intergovernmental agreement for conducting municipal elections, hiring a firefighter, and hiring for a part-time position at city hall. Additionally, the council discussed relocating city council meetings to city hall and went into an executive session to discuss an employment exception.