Joey Davenport

The board discussed the process for filling a vacancy on the Hospital Authority resulting from a resignation. Following the submission of eligible candidates by the Lee County Board of Commissioners, the board conducted a nomination process and selected an individual to fill the seat.

The board discussed the process for filling a current vacancy on the Hospital Authority under state law, which requires a list of eligible candidates to be submitted by the Board of Commissioners. Following this, the board nominated an individual for reappointment to fill the vacancy.

The board approved the annual budget for fiscal year 2026-2027 in the amount of $6,127,500, which includes provisions for additional staff, vehicle acquisition, system funding, and employee cost-of-living increases, necessitating a 3.5% fee scale adjustment. Additionally, the board selected Stillwater Engineering to provide installation, construction, and observation services for the GEMA/FEMA generator project.

The meeting included an update on the 2026 Tax Digest and revaluation of various property types. Public hearings were conducted for the proposed 2026-2027 budget, a conditional use request for a solar energy system which was denied, a rezoning request for which no action was taken, and a text amendment regarding driveway widths. The Board authorized an application for a FEMA Assistance to Firefighters Grant, adopted a joint resolution for ad valorem tax refunds, and approved renewals for a facility lease, an on-call engineering contract, and an audit engagement. Additionally, the Board adopted a resolution to extend the moratorium on data centers.

The board discussed funding options for future wastewater operations, including the potential purchase of a used plant, and requested an update on the status of well and tank grants. Additionally, the board addressed readiness concerns regarding projected growth and implemented measures to coordinate with Planning and Zoning on development access. Finally, the board authorized the payment of an invoice for $5,440.00 to Lanier Engineering related to the Water and Sewer Extension Project funded by 2022 Bond Funds.