Sandra Tarrer

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.

The board discussed the process for placing a fluoride treatment vote on the ballot. Additionally, the board authorized the engineering firm to proceed with a request to the state environmental agency regarding waste load allocation for a creek discharge expansion project.

The board recognized employees for their years of service, approved a zoning variance request for a cul-de-sac length, and appointed members to the Development Authority and the Housing Task Force. An appointment for the Tax Assessor's Board was tabled for further information, and a member was appointed to the Utilities Authority. The meeting also included updates on county infrastructure projects, approval of road applications for funding, awarding a bid for a new office building at the Sheriff's Office, and approval of a healthcare renewal plan. Additionally, the board discussed the current moratorium on data centers and considered extending it to allow for further research and ordinance development.