Robert Freeman Leverett

The board received and accepted a financial report for the period. The Executive Director's report provided updates on the Porch Song event, preparations for an upcoming Smithsonian exhibit, and the winners of the StartUp Hart competition. Additionally, the Main Street activities report included results from the Ladies Night Out event and a notification regarding the upcoming Heart and Soul Workshop.

The board established a formal signature protocol for check signing related to the ARC grant for HCCT, designating authorized and preferred signers. Financial and director reports were presented and adopted. Additionally, the board discussed plans for hosting an upcoming event in September for elected officials, which will include presentations, a lunch, and a walking tour.

The council reviewed and approved a list of five major annual events. A progress update was provided for the three-phase gymnasium project, covering engineering studies, public comment phases, and forthcoming cost projections. The council approved the annexation of the Lake Russell Building Supply property into a B2 General Business District. Other topics included an update on a GDOT grant for a roundabout project, potential work sessions regarding TSPLOST funding, and a comprehensive presentation by the police department concerning employee attrition trends. Public feedback was shared regarding police leadership, and a proposed 180-day moratorium on annexations and residential zoning changes was introduced and subsequently withdrawn for further refinement.

The council meeting addressed multiple municipal initiatives, including the approval of the Hartwell Natural Gas Connection Project and a plan to conduct a rate study for potential new water tap fees. Key actions included the purchase of a new wastewater pump for the Hwy 29 Lift Station, the awarding of paving contracts for several streets, and a 120-day moratorium on residential rezoning applications to allow for ordinance revisions regarding development density. Additionally, the council discussed proposed updates to zoning and subdivision procedures, reviewed a potential ordinance for lapsing zoning approvals, and heard public comments regarding local water utility partnerships, liquor license applications, and police department reporting.

The board reviewed and accepted the financial report. The director provided an update on training and presented the 2026 budget, which includes funding for a summer intern. Additionally, the board recommended the addition of a new member to the DDA and discussed plans for a luncheon to recognize volunteers and public works staff.