John Bailey

The board received updates on the completion of the airfield lighting project and noted that PAPI systems are awaiting FAA flight checks. It was discussed that the selection process for the Airport's Engineer of Record, which occurs every five years, is underway. Maintenance issues regarding T-hangar exterior lighting were addressed. Financial reports were provided, and project statuses were reviewed, including the relocation of Jones Mill Road and the construction of the SPLOST corporate hangar. Future projects for 2026 were outlined, and the committee received a report regarding the upcoming 2026 Wings Over North Georgia Airshow.

The committee meeting featured reports from various departments, including P.A.W.S., which reported a high live outcome rate and planned equipment purchases. The Emergency Management Agency provided a seasonal weather outlook, while E-911 updated the committee on current staffing vacancies. The Fire Department discussed weather-related fire risks and new drone technology, and the Police Department highlighted recent academic achievements by staff. The Sheriff's Office detailed the success of the annual Christmas gift program, and the Board of Education provided an update on new school safety initiatives and the development of an MOU with state agencies.

The meeting included the appointment of the 2026 Board officers and the adoption of various operating policies, including the Official Code of Georgia, appraisal procedures manual, and the local Board of Assessors procedure manual. The Chief Appraiser provided reports on ongoing Board of Equalization hearings, 2026 field work progress, staff updates, and the 2026 budget adoption. The board also approved filing a petition for review regarding a religious exemption decision. Consent agenda items were passed, covering various Property Adjustment Change Orders, motor vehicle appeals, and conservation use applications. Additionally, the 2026 board meeting schedule was approved, and the implementation of a petition for review procedure for superior court filings was discussed.

The board meeting addressed various administrative and property assessment matters. The consent agenda included the approval of mobile home, personal property, and real property adjustment change orders, as well as the processing of motor vehicle appeals and conservation use applications. Under new business, the board approved applications for property tax exemptions for two churches and authorized the audit selection list for the current year.

The board addressed various administrative and operational matters, including a rezoning request for property on Alabama Highway. Special recognitions were given for Law Enforcement Memorial Week, Public Works Week, and National Salvation Army Week. Consent agenda items included several sponsorship and advertising contracts for Parks and Recreation, county maintenance acceptance for specific roads, a reduction in the 2024 HIDTA grant, an inventory proposal for the Historic Courthouse, and a billing adjustment for the Tax Commissioner. New business items involved awarding bids for HVAC replacement at the county jail and engineering design for Mango Road, approving an LMIG Safety Action Plan agreement, and authorizing a change order for work at the Historic Courthouse. Additionally, the board considered a reappointment to the Highland Rivers Board.