Elbert County

The Board held a public hearing regarding a rezoning request, followed by a meeting where they passed a resolution declaring Foster and Adoptive Parents Appreciation Day. Key discussions included a request from the American Legion to use the old 4-H building, a review of a potential self-funding energy audit for county facilities, and a financial update. Formal actions included the approval of a rezoning request for an inbound call center, the declaration of a radio tower as surplus property, the authorization of a shared use agreement with Hart EMC for antenna placement, and the approval of a GADOT grant application for the senior center. The meeting concluded with an executive session regarding litigation and real estate.

The Board of Commissioners conducted a public hearing regarding the proposed FY2015 budget. The regular meeting included a presentation from Elbert Memorial Hospital requesting annual financial support for charity care services. The Board approved grants for the Adult Felony Drug Court and a technological grant for computer needs. They reviewed potential changes to pawn shop regulations and amendments to the county ordinance regarding animals. Additionally, the Board approved the FY2015 budget portion for the Northern Circuit Public Defender and denied a request for an additional Assistant District Attorney position due to budget constraints. Finally, they approved a beer and wine license for a local business and reviewed the financial report, noting challenges with solid waste operation deficits.

The board discussed several items, including the re-election of the Vice-Chairman and a report regarding the Keep Elbert County Beautiful program. Key actions included the adoption of the Title VI Plan for Elbert County Transit, approval of the 2015 LMIG Program for road resurfacing, the re-appointment of a member to the Tax Assessor Board, and the renewal of resolutions for E-911 fees and charges. The board also reviewed the finance report, engaged in discussions regarding the potential closure of the Sweet City Bridge, and explored the lease agreement for Bobby Brown State Park. An executive session was held with no action taken.

The Board discussed and approved the sub-lease agreement with the State Department of Natural Resources for Bobby Brown Park, which included reviews of estimated operational and start-up costs, accounting classification, and logistical preparations for the park's operation. The Board also addressed the potential use of County resources to assist local City Governments and the Board of Education.

The board discussed and considered health insurance benefits for county employees for the 2026-2027 plan year. Representatives from MSI Benefits Group presented a proposal to renew health, dental, and vision coverage with Anthem, noting an improvement in the loss ratio while highlighting continued large claimant exposure. It was determined that transitioning to a self-funded plan was not viable at this time. The board approved the recommendation to renew the current coverage, which involves a 6.2% increase in the total annual plan premium.