Tony Hester

The Board addressed multiple grant programs, including status updates and revisions to the LHAP and HAP. Discussions covered economic development project status and sign options for the Alapaha Commerce Center. Road paving project updates were provided for several locations, including progress reports on the Hatley project, the Wastewater Treatment Plant compliance plan, CR 135 dragline crossings, and the completion of the CR 132 project. The Board held a first reading of a Floodplain Management Ordinance amendment, approved a waiver for an ambulance stand-by fee and the rental of a restroom trailer for an annual rodeo, and authorized an employee grievance investigation. Additionally, the Board discussed bidding for library renovations, requests regarding downtown park ownership, and received a legal report concerning agreements and ongoing construction negotiations.

The Board discussed emergency medical services, specifically approving the purchase of a motor for a county ambulance. Delays in collection protocols and potential adjustments to billing procedures were reviewed, with staff requested to draft proposed changes. The Board also declared a county-wide burn ban due to dry conditions. Furthermore, the Board addressed code enforcement, authorizing the County Attorney to draft a new ordinance and planning for a future workshop to discuss moving toward a non-complaint-driven enforcement model, while also addressing issues regarding septic tank permits.

The Board received a status report on the American Rescue Plan and Management Consulting. A proclamation recognizing Line worker Appreciation Week was approved. Status reports were provided for various grant programs. During a public hearing, the Board adopted an ordinance to grant economic development ad valorem tax exemptions to new businesses and expansions. Other key topics included an amendment to the Land Use Fee Schedule, approval for dragline equipment to cross county roads, updates on economic development projects and road paving initiatives, and a discussion regarding damage to private property due to road conditions. The Board also reviewed legal reports, including interlocal agreements, and addressed public concerns regarding illegal dumping and burning of debris. Plans for a future code enforcement workshop were announced, and various financial items including bills and budget grants were reviewed and acted upon.

The Board discussed draft prospect sheets for potential businesses, requesting further review for process simplification. Additionally, the Board evaluated the Hatley building, approving the decision to keep the wall brick with a mural and the installation of a wrought iron fence. A letter of support for Project Vision was authorized, and travel for Commissioners to the SEDC Conference was approved. The Board also moved to approve a petition for a rule waiver regarding CDBG-ED funding and authorized an enabling ordinance for tax exemption relief.

The Board discussed and approved an economic development incentive package for Project Front Porch. Additionally, the Board approved a change order for Boone Construction to perform additional excavation and sediment removal at the Gibson Park Boat Ramp at a cost of $18,800.00. Other topics addressed included the potential procurement of new docks through a future FWC grant and a review of a recent technical working group meeting regarding a 99-acre development site.