Ricky Hunt

The meeting agenda included the swearing in of the new Fire Chief, Jason Bryant. New business items involved the ratification of an agreement with the White County Sheriff's Office for inmate detention services and the ratification of a Declaration of Emergency. Council was set to consider a variance request from Ron Cantrell Construction Inc. for the Grease Monkey Oil Change property regarding exterior building materials. The agenda also listed multiple previous meeting minutes (Regular and Called Meetings, as well as Executive Sessions) for approval from January 2026.

The purpose of this called meeting was to conduct an Executive Session specifically for the discussion regarding personnel matters.

The agenda includes a proclamation for Seasonal Depression Month, a public hearing for Resolution 2026-01 regarding compensation of elected officials, and several resolutions addressing annual renewals for firefighter cancer insurance and workers compensation coverage. Amendments to the Personnel Handbook and Fiscal Year 24-25 Budget are also on the agenda, along with adopting the 2026 Rules of Decorum and a GEFA Loan Modification Resolution. Additionally, the meeting will cover minutes from the November 17, 2025 meeting and an executive session, followed by announcements and a discussion regarding real estate in an executive session.

The meeting included presentations, department reports from Economic Development and Planning, Finance, Fire, Police, Public Works, and Water Resources. New business included discussion of a wellness policy, the 2026 meeting schedule, the 2026 holiday schedule, and the 2025 annual holiday bonus. The council also reviewed minutes from a previous meeting and an executive session, followed by city attorney and administrator reports, announcements, and an executive session to discuss real estate and personnel.

The City Council meeting addressed updates on the 129 North Gravity Sewer project, including easement acquisition and property rezoning. Discussions included an archeological survey for a water tank project and updates from the City Engineer and City Attorney. Police department statistics were presented, along with a class request approval. The council approved participation in Georgia Power's LED streetlight program and the DOT LMIG program for safety equipment. Public comments included concerns about standing water and the relocation of military monuments. A settlement offer was made to address the standing water issue.