James Andrews

Key discussions included recognizing former members of the merged DDA and Mainstreet Boards and a presentation by the Washington County Chamber of Commerce President regarding membership statistics, social media reach, Shop at Home gift card success, county 250th anniversary participation, and the Youth Leadership program. Council Member Dennis expressed interest in establishing a city-specific youth council. The EMA Director reported on recent weather activities and the update to the "Code Red" system. The Council awarded bids for fertilizer and land applications to Smith Farm Supply and Producers Ag. A resolution was approved to declare surplus police department property (old Tasers) for donation to the City of Davisboro. Further discussions involved renaming Hines Street to "Terry Jones St," investigating the naming origin of Hines Street, addressing traffic speed concerns on Hospital Road using speed cameras (with legal review required), confirming progress on LED street light installation, and addressing a local buzzard issue near Evergreen and Wedgewood. In public comment, rezoning for new townhomes was confirmed as unnecessary as the area is already zoned R-2 multifamily.

The proceedings included an initial Executive Session to discuss property matters, followed by a subsequent Regular Meeting. Key discussions involved a Public Hearing concerning Request #2026-01, a Special Exception request related to lot size requirements and setback modifications for a Single Family dwelling (R2 Zone) on North Avenue, which was ultimately approved. The Council also authorized payment for a Solar Stop Sign kit from EpicStar LED, LLC for Hines Street. Furthermore, the Mayor was authorized to execute a Memorandum of Understanding with the City of Sandersville Development Authority and Cobblestone Hotels Development LLC. The amended DDA By-laws were adopted, and appointments were made to the DDA Board, including Zack Webb, Ashley Garrin, and Audre Jenkins. The meeting concluded with a final Executive Session to address personnel issues.

During the Working Session, the Council recognized employees for years of service and acknowledged the retirement of a Fire Department Captain. Key agenda items included the renewal of the Toomsboro Animal Control Contract (suggested for annual renewal in the future), and the bid award for the engineering of the new police department. Department statistics for 2025 were reviewed for Police, Fire, Electric, and Water/Wastewater services. Discussions involved addressing reports of an uncleared ditch on Hines Street and addressing safety concerns regarding railroad track oversight on Tybee Street. Planning & Zoning reported on ongoing work regarding vacant houses and addressed an inquiry about a proposed personal care home ordinance. The City Manager reviewed the 2026 CHIP Grant application resolution and the use of CDBG Grant funds for the MLK sewer project. Council members also expressed the need to discuss the City Manager position and potential street naming honor for Terry Jones, and noted concerns about littering.

The working session focused heavily on the proposed redesign for Franklin Haynes Drive near the Recreation Department. Options included leaving the road as is with gates or relocating the road entirely around the park, the latter being favored for safety and expansion potential despite residents' initial preference for gates. The meeting also covered the bid award for the Animal Control shelter, where the lowest bid from ATL Prime Services was accepted over a higher local bid due to the winning proposal being more detailed. Subsequently, the regular session addressed multiple resolutions, including adopting a resolution amending the schedule of fees and charges, adopting financial policies, and adopting the Fiscal Year 2026 Budget. Other actions included reappointing a member to the Planning and Zoning (P&Z) Board, approving the 2026 Council meeting schedule, awarding the Animal Control shelter bid, and voting on the Franklin Haynes Drive resolution, ultimately favoring road relocation over gate installation.

The resolution focuses on amending the schedule of fees and charges for the City of Sandersville, Georgia. It addresses services provided by the city's utility systems, including electricity, water, sewer, sanitation, and telecom services. The resolution adopts and approves the revised schedule of fees and charges, repealing any conflicting provisions in previous ordinances or policies. It covers various fees related to utility deposits, cut-off fees, temporary service, pole fees, returned checks, collections, outdoor lighting, underground service, same-day service, account establishment, transfer fees, reconnect fees, meter tests, credit card phone service, police department reports and background checks, animal control adoptions and reclaims, boarding fees, drop-offs, microchips, building and zoning permits for residential and commercial construction, reinspection fees, zoning verification letters, zone changes, zoning variances, plumbing, HVAC, street department services such as driveway/pipe installation, dirt, gravel, water/sewer taps, electric department fees, telecom dark fiber lease, special events permits, sanitation leaf and limb pickup, and tire fees.