McDuffie County public meetings in 2024

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to consider the FY2025 budget resolution and the 2025 schedule of fees. The body will also review bids for Hurricane Helene debris removal, monitoring, and consulting services.

• Budget FY2025 Resolution 24-11
• 2025 Schedule of Fees
• RFP 24-011 Hurricane Helene Debris Monitoring Services
• RFP 24-012 Hurricane Helene Debris Removal Services
• RFP 24-013 Hurricane Helene Disaster Recovery Professional Consulting Services

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the FY2025 budget resolution, Hurricane Helene debris monitoring, removal, and recovery consulting contracts, and several other routine items. No public input was given, and no action was taken in executive session.

• Approved FY2025 Budget Resolution 24-11 (5-0 roll call)
• Approved Hurricane Helene debris monitoring, removal, and recovery consulting bids (RFP 24-011, 24-012, 24-013) (unanimous)
• Approved Deanna Specialty Inc. sub-contract agreement for Transit Department (unanimous)
• Approved CVB annual digital marketing campaign (unanimous)
• Approved Premium Only Plan Description and Adoption Agreement for insurance (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Schedule of Fees (unanimous)
• Approved November ACO Report (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Dec. 4 and Dec. 10 meetings (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will meet to discuss the 2025 City Budget and the sale of property at 424 Second Street. The body will also review contracts for debris collection services and matters regarding the City Attorney.

• Resolution 10-2024: 2025 City Budget
• Resolution 11-2024: Appointment of Mayor to sign documents for sale of 424 Second Street
• Contracts for continued debris collection services
• City Attorney business

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the FY 2025 budget. No specific budget figures are listed in the agenda. The meeting also includes an executive session on pending litigation.

• FY 2025 Budget Public Hearing
• Executive session – pending litigation

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on the FY 2025 budget, with a presentation by Finance Director Pam Workman. The board then entered executive session to discuss pending litigation and exited without taking any action. The meeting adjourned with no substantive decisions made.

• Held FY 2025 budget public hearing (no vote)
• Entered executive session for pending litigation (unanimous)
• Exited executive session with no action taken (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss the 2025 City Budget and the sale of 424 Second Street. The body will also review contracts for debris collection services and the City Attorney.

• Resolution 10-2024: 2025 City Budget
• Resolution 11-2024: Sale of 424 Second Street
• Contracts for continued debris collection services
• Discussion regarding City Attorney

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will consider Resolution 24-09 to abandon a portion of Knox‑Rivers Road. It will also review Change Order Number 1 for the 2024 LMIG resurfacing project and vote on purchases of a utility storage building, a boom mower, and an equipment trailer. Additional items include approving the 2025 meeting schedule, discussing earned‑time compensation, and reviewing the FY2025 budget.

• Resolution 24-09 to abandon a portion of Knox‑Rivers Road
• Change Order Number 1 for 2024 LMIG Resurfacing Project
• Purchase of Utility Storage Building
• Purchase of Boom Mower
• Purchase of Equipment Trailer

The board approved Resolution 24-09 to abandon a portion of Knox-Rivers Road, despite a split vote. All other items on the agenda were approved unanimously, including change orders, equipment purchases, and the 2025 meeting schedule. The FY2025 budget was discussed but not voted on, and was moved to the December 10th agenda.

• Approved Resolution 24-09 to abandon a portion of Knox-Rivers Road (3-2)
• Approved Change Order Number 1 for 2024 LMIG Resurfacing Project (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of utility storage building from Chalker's Buildings (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of boom mower from GSK Trailer Sales (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of equipment trailer (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Board of Commissioners Meeting Schedule (unanimous)
• Approved earned time compensation (unanimous)
• Discussed FY2025 Budget; added to December 10th agenda

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will consider two resolutions to abandon sections of local roads (Edmonds Road and Knox‑Rivers Road). The meeting also includes approvals for several contracts and agreements, including a risk‑management PTSD program, an EagleView imagery contract, and a building automation contract with Trane. Additional items cover a personal property reporting forms renewal, equipment purchase for the Campground Department, and the 2025 meeting schedule and fee schedule discussion.

• Resolution 24-08 to abandon portions of Edmonds Road
• Resolution 24-09 to abandon a portion of Knox‑Rivers Road
• Approval of ACCG Interlocal Risk Management First Responders PTSD Application and Participation Agreement
• Approval of EagleView Imagery Contract with the Tax Assessor's Department
• Approval of Building Services Agreement for building automation with Trane for the Government Center

The board approved Resolution 24-08 to abandon portions of Edmonds Road (4-1), but the motion to approve Resolution 24-09 for Knox-Rivers Road failed for lack of a second and was tabled. Several contracts and agreements were approved unanimously, including the ACCG-IRMA First Responder PTSD program, EagleView imagery contract, and Trane building automation agreement. The 2025 meeting schedule was tabled pending incoming commissioners' confirmation, and end-of-year incentive pay was approved with a modification removing the Board of Commissioners from eligibility.

• Approved Resolution 24-08 abandoning portions of Edmonds Road (4-1)
• Tabled Resolution 24-09 abandoning a portion of Knox-Rivers Road (motion failed, no second)
• Approved ACCG-IRMA First Responder PTSD application and participation agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 24-10 authorizing participation in ACCG-IRMA Supplemental Medical, Accident, and Disability Fund: First Responder PTSD Program (unanimous)
• Approved EagleView Imagery Contract with Tax Assessor's Department (unanimous)
• Approved Government Windows Agreement for Recreation Department (unanimous)
• Approved Building Services Agreement with Trane for Government Center automation (unanimous)
• Approved end-of-year incentive/supplemental pay with modification removing Board of Commissioners (3-1, 1 abstention)

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will consider Resolution 09-2024, which authorizes the Mayor Pro-Tem to sign closing documents for the sale of a property on Second Street. The council will also review a rezoning recommendation for 615 Whiteoak Street. Additional agenda items include recognitions, citizen input, and approval of prior meeting minutes.

• Resolution 09-2024 approving Mayor Pro-Tem to sign closing documents for sale of property on Second Street
• Rezoning recommendation for 615 Whiteoak Street
• Recognition of Thomson City Cemetery Revitalization
• Recognition of Hurricane Helene Recovery and Response
• Approval of minutes from the September 12, 2024 and October 4, 2024 council meetings

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will hold a work session to hear a director update and county attorney input. Council members will consider Resolution 09-2024 and review the Planning Board's recommendation for 615 Whiteoak Street. The agenda also includes discussion of the city budget and reports from the city administrator and mayor.

• Director update
• County attorney presentation
• Resolution 09-2024
• Planning Board recommendation for 615 Whiteoak Street
• Budget discussion

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will meet for a called meeting. The agenda consists of a welcome and an executive session to discuss potential litigation.

• Executive session regarding potential litigation

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will review several grant and policy items. Items include approval of a FEMA grant for an emergency generator at the Sweetwater gym, a state and local cybersecurity grant program, and transit grant management policies. The board will also consider waiving building‑permit fees for repairs caused by Hurricane Helene and adopting an ADA transit plan.

• Approve FEMA grant for Sweetwater Gym emergency generator
• Approve State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program
• Approve McDuffie County Transit Grant Management Policies and Procedures
• Approve waiver of building permit fees for Hurricane Helene repair work
• Approve McDuffie County Transit Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Plan

The Board unanimously approved a FEMA grant for a Sweetwater Gym emergency generator, funded by Public Safety SPLOST, along with several other items including a cybersecurity grant, transit policies, and a 90-day waiver of building permit fees for Hurricane Helene repairs. The financial policies were approved in a split 3-2 vote, with Vice Chair Wilson and Commissioner Favors opposed.

• Approved FEMA grant for Sweetwater Gym emergency generator (unanimous)
• Approved State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program (unanimous)
• Approved McDuffie County Transit Grant Management Policies and Procedures (unanimous)
• Approved Financial Policies (3-2, Thompson, Jopling, Newton in favor; Wilson, Favors opposed)
• Approved October ACO Report (unanimous)
• Approved 90-day waiver of building permit fees for Hurricane Helene repairs (unanimous)
• Approved McDuffie County Transit ADA Plan (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The commissioners will discuss and consider approving several grant applications and policy updates, including a FEMA grant for an emergency generator at the Sweetwater Gym, a state and local cybersecurity grant, and transit grant management policies. They will also review the October ACO report, ARPA funds, a request for a coroner's office, hurricane Helene recovery and building permits, and the 2025 budget.

• Consideration to approve FEMA Grant for Sweetwater Gym Emergency Generator
• Consideration to approve State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program
• Consideration to approve McDuffie County Transit Grant Management Policies and Procedures
• Consideration to approve Financial Policies
• Consideration to approve October ACO Report

The Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on November 4, 2024, but took no formal votes. All action items—including the FEMA generator grant, cybersecurity grant, transit policies, financial policies, October ACO report, and Hurricane Helene building permits—were discussed and deferred to the next meeting agenda. Several items, such as ARPA funds, the Coroner's Office, Hurricane Helene recovery, and the 2025 budget, were presented for update and discussion only.

• Deferred FEMA grant for Sweetwater Gym emergency generator to next meeting
• Deferred State and Local Cybersecurity Grant Program to next meeting
• Deferred McDuffie County Transit Grant Management Policies and Procedures to next meeting
• Deferred Financial Policies to next meeting
• Deferred October ACO Report to next meeting
• Discussed ARPA funds (update only, no action)
• Discussed Coroner's Office update; additional discussion required
• Discussed Hurricane Helene recovery (update only, no action)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board will hold a public hearing and consider approving a license for AM/PM Convenience Store dba Gas Pro to sell beer and wine. The meeting also includes approvals for a sewer extension change order, a van for Animal Services, a service truck for Maintenance, and a FY 2025 budget policy amendment. Additional items include updates on current projects, financial and budget reports, and other routine business.

• Public hearing and approval of beer and wine license for AM/PM Convenience Store dba Gas Pro
• Approval of Wrightsboro Road Sewer Extension Change Order #3
• Approval of FY 2025 CSRA Economic Opportunity Authority, Inc.
• Approval of a van purchase for the Animal Services Department
• Approval of a service truck purchase for the Maintenance Department

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will review an inter‑governmental agreement to enable contracts for storm‑debris recovery. It will also consider three FEMA contracts for debris management with Rostan Solutions, LLC; CTC Disaster Response, Inc.; and GMC Public Assistance. No other agenda items are listed.

• Approve inter‑governmental agreement for storm‑debris recovery contracts
• Approve FEMA contract with Rostan Solutions, LLC for debris management
• Approve FEMA contract with CTC Disaster Response, Inc. for debris management
• Approve FEMA contract with GMC Public Assistance for debris management

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will consider a resolution to declare a local state of emergency in response to Hurricane Helene. The meeting is scheduled for Friday, October 4, 2024, at 5:00 PM at the Thomson-McDuffie Fire Headquarters.

• Consideration to approve Resolution 24-07: Local State of Emergency for Hurricane Helene
• Meeting location: Thomson-McDuffie Fire Headquarters
• Meeting date: Friday, October 4, 2024 at 5:00 PM

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will consider approving zoning changes, budget amendments, and a trash amnesty day. The meeting will also include public hearings on specific land use requests.

• Zoning change from R-2 to C-2 at 1059 Wrightsboro Road
• Variance for a mobile home at 675 Pylant Crossing Road
• Special exception for a wedding venue on County Line Road
• Approval of Fall Trash Amnesty Day
• Amendment to Fiscal Year 2025 Budget Policy

Land Bank Authority

The McDuffie County Land Bank Authority will meet on September 12, 2024 to approve the agenda and minutes from prior meetings. The commission will receive an update on tax properties. Commissioners will consider approving McGill and Associates Land Surveyors for work at 144 Hawes Street (Parcel 0T120187B00). They will also discuss and consider asbestos removal at 314 Sycamore and 843 Clements.

• Approve current agenda
• Approve minutes from March 14, 2024 and August 8, 2024
• Consider approval of McGill and Associates Land Surveyors for 144 Hawes Street (Parcel 0T120187B00)
• Discuss and consider asbestos removal at 314 Sycamore and 843 Clements

The Thomson-McDuffie Land Bank Authority met and approved several property-related actions. The board unanimously voted to donate the First Avenue property to the City of Thomson, secure a surveyor for the Hawes Street property, and obtain asbestos and demolition quotes for the Sycamore and Clements Street property. No action was taken on the Washington Road and Walnut Street properties.

• Approved motion to secure a surveyor for Hawes Street property (unanimous)
• Approved motion to obtain asbestos and demolition quotes for Sycamore and Clements Street property (unanimous)
• Approved donation of First Avenue property to City of Thomson (unanimous)
• No action taken on Washington Road property; continue to hold for potential buyers
• No action taken on Walnut Street properties

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will consider approving the 2023 Community Development Block Grant award and adopting a Fair Housing Marketing Plan. The agenda also includes a contract for the CSRA Regional Commission to administer a CHIP grant.

• CDBG 2023 Award Recommendation
• DCA Fair Housing Marketing Plan Adoption
• CSRA RC Contract to Administer CHIP Grant 2024-117
• Minority/Women’s Business Enterprises Outreach Procedures Adoption
• Approval of August 8 and August 14 Council minutes

The Thomson City Council approved the CDBG 2023 infrastructure project award to Beam Site Prep, LLC, based on the lowest bid, and adopted required plans for fair housing marketing and minority/women business outreach. The council also approved a contract with the CSRA Regional Commission for the Community Home Investment Program. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved CDBG 2023 infrastructure project award to Beam Site Prep, LLC (5-0)
• Adopted DCA Fair Housing Marketing Plan (5-0)
• Adopted Minority/Women's Business Enterprises Outreach Procedures (5-0)
• Approved CSRA Regional Commission CHIP 2024-117 contract (5-0)

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council work session will consider a recommendation for the 2023 Community Development Block Grant award. It will adopt the DCA Fair Housing Marketing Plan and adopt outreach procedures for Minority/Women’s Business Enterprises. The council will also receive updates from directors and key staff on police, natural gas operations, water‑sewer distribution, wastewater treatment, streets, and solid waste.

• CDBG 2023 Award Recommendation
• DCA Fair Housing Marketing Plan Adoption
• Minority/Women’s Business Enterprises Outreach Procedures Adoption
• Directors and Key Staff Updates (Police, Natural Gas Operations, Water‑Sewer Distribution, Wastewater Treatment, Streets & Solid Waste)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on the FY 2024 millage rate and consider three resolutions: approval of a proposal to support a broadband extension, amendment of the fire fee (or retention of current rates), and adoption of Resolution 24-05 for the FY 2024 millage. No dollar amounts are specified in the agenda.

• Public hearing on FY 24 millage rate
• Consider approval of proposal for broadband extension support
• Consider amendment of the fire fee or retain current rates
• Consider approval of Resolution 24‑05 for FY 24 millage

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the FY24 millage rate at 7.809, retained current fire fee rates, and approved a broadband extension proposal with a $15,000 cap. The board also entered executive session to discuss property matters.

• Approved FY24 millage rate at 7.809 (unanimous)
• Retained current fire fee rates (unanimous)
• Approved broadband extension support with $15,000 cap (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will discuss a range of items, including a proclamation for National Information Technology Professionals Day, the abandonment of portions of Knox Rivers Road and Edmonds Road, and the approval of the county transit GDOT Title VI plan. They will also consider an ordinance amendment for a special lighting district, a fire‑fee amendment, and a statement of work for landscape services at the government complex. A key financial decision is the approval of the fourth modification for the loan supporting the Wrightsboro Road sewer project.

• Proclamation designating Sep 17, 2024 as National Information Technology Professionals Day
• Abandonment of a portion of Knox Rivers Road
• Abandonment of Edmonds Road
• Ordinance Amendment 24-01, 2nd Reading, Special Lighting District
• Approval of fourth modification loan for Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved several items, including abandoning portions of Knox Rivers Road and Edmonds Road, the McDuffie County Transit GDOT 5311 Title VI Plan, Ordinance Amendment 24-01 (Special Lighting District), a loan modification for the Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project, and a statement of work for landscape architecture services. The board tabled the fire fee discussion to a special called session and moved the Ferrous Road relocation discussion to a future work session.

• Approved agenda and minutes from four prior meetings (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation for National IT Professionals Day (unanimous)
• Approved abandonment of portion of Knox Rivers Road (unanimous)
• Approved abandonment of Edmonds Road (unanimous)
• Approved McDuffie County Transit GDOT 5311 Title VI Plan (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance Amendment 24-01, 2nd reading, Special Lighting District (unanimous)
• Approved fourth loan modification for Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project (unanimous)
• Approved statement of work for Cranston landscape architecture services (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will meet on August 29, 2024 at 6:30 PM in the Government Center Meeting Room. The meeting includes a public hearing on the FY 2024 millage rate. No other agenda items are listed beyond standard procedural items.

• Public hearing on FY 2024 millage rate

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners held a special called meeting and public hearing on the FY 2024 millage rate. County Manager David Crawley presented two options: a rate of 7.709 mills or a rollback rate of 7.425 mills. The minutes do not record the board's final decision or vote on the millage rate.

• Held public hearing on FY 2024 millage rate (no vote recorded in minutes)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will hold a special meeting on Thursday, August 29, 2024 at 10:00 AM in the Government Center Meeting Room. The agenda includes a public hearing and a discussion of the FY 2024 Millage Rate. No other substantive items are listed.

• Public hearing
• Discussion of FY 2024 Millage Rate

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on the FY 2024 millage rate. County Manager David Crawley presented two options: a rate of 7.709 mills and a rollback rate of 7.425 mills. No vote was taken during this special called meeting; it was procedural only.

• Held public hearing on FY 2024 millage rate (no vote taken)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on a variance request for a hydroponics farm located on Highway 221 (Parcel 00760006). The meeting will also include an audit presentation by The Baird Audit Group, LLC, and a vote on Ordinance Amendment 24-01 to revise lighting district fees. Commissioners will consider education salary increases for the Fire Department and the Sheriff’s Department, and receive budget and financial reports.

• Public hearing and vote on variance request for hydroponics farm on Hwy 221 (Parcel 00760006)
• Vote on Ordinance Amendment 24-01 to establish revised fees for Lighting Districts
• Consideration of education salary increase for the Fire Department
• Consideration of education salary increase for the Sheriff’s Department
• Audit presentation by The Baird Audit Group, LLC

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a variance request for a hydroponics farm on residential property on Hwy 221 (Parcel 00760006). They also approved education salary increases for both the Fire and Sheriff's departments, and appointed Vice-Chair Wilson as the 2024 Legislative Leadership Delegate. No action was taken on Ordinance Amendment 24-01 regarding Lighting District fees.

• Approved hydroponics farm variance on Hwy 221 (unanimous)
• Approved education salary increase for Fire Department (unanimous)
• Approved education salary increase for Sheriff's Department (unanimous)
• Approved Vice-Chair Wilson as 2024 Legislative Leadership Delegate (unanimous)
• No action on Ordinance Amendment 24-01 (Lighting District fees)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will consider several resolutions related to the Community Housing Improvement Program (CHIP) 2024. The meeting includes the adoption of Georgia statutes and federal Section 3 standards.

• Resolution 05-2024: CHIP 2024 Policies and Procedures
• Resolution 06-2024: Homeowner Eligibility and Property Value Limits 2024
• Resolution 07-2024: Georgia Statutes Adoption
• Resolution 08-2024: Federal Standards for Section 3 Adoption
• Language Access Plan for CHIP 2024

The Thomson City Council approved all five resolutions tied to the 2024 Community Home Investment Program (CHIP) grant in a single 5-0 vote. These resolutions set policies, eligibility limits, state law adoptions, HUD standards, and a Language Access Plan. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting also included citizen input and reports.

• Adopted Resolution 05-2024 (CHIP policies and procedures) as part of package (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 06-2024 (homeowner eligibility and property value limits) as part of package (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 07-2024 (Georgia statutes adoption) as part of package (5-0)
• Adopted Resolution 08-2024 (HUD Section 3 standards) as part of package (5-0)
• Adopted Language Access Plan for CHIP 2024 as part of package (5-0)
• Approved agenda as written (5-0)
• Approved minutes of July 11, 2024 meeting (5-0)

Land Bank Authority

The Land Bank Authority commission will first approve the current agenda. It will then receive an update on tax properties. Finally, it will discuss the status and updates of Land Bank properties.

• Approve current agenda
• Update on tax properties
• Discussion on status and update of Land Bank properties

The Thomson-McDuffie Land Bank Authority met and took several property actions. It approved the agenda, secured a surveyor for the Hawes Street property, obtained asbestos and demolition quotes for Sycamore and Clements Street, and unanimously donated the First Avenue property to the City of Thomson. No action was taken on Washington Road or Walnut Street properties.

• Approved current agenda (unanimous)
• Secured surveyor for Hawes Street property (unanimous)
• Obtained asbestos and demolition quotes for Sycamore and Clements Street (unanimous)
• Donated First Avenue property to City of Thomson (unanimous)
• No action on Washington Road property
• No action on Walnut Street properties

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss budget amendments and several service updates. Key items include a drug and alcohol policy for McDuffie Transit and a fee schedule for the Health Department. The board will also consider a notice to terminate ambulance coverage for Glascock County.

• Mid-Year 2024 Budget Amendments
• Notice of Termination to Provide Ambulance Coverage to Glascock County
• McDuffie County Health Department Fee Schedule
• Bid No. 24-002 for Old Milledgeville Rd at Gin Branch and Hobbs Mill Rd at Sweetwater Creek
• CivicPlus: CivicEngage Central Website Upgrade

The Board of Commissioners approved several administrative updates, including the 2024 mid-year budget amendments and a drug and alcohol policy for McDuffie Transit. The board also authorized road work bids and upgrades to the county website and recreation center camera system.

• Approved McDuffie Transit DOT Zero Tolerance Drug & Alcohol Policy 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved McDuffie County Health Department Fee Schedule (Unanimous)
• Approved update of Notice of Termination to provide ambulance coverage to Glascock County (Unanimous)
• Approved Bid No. 24-002 for Old Milledgeville Rd and Hobbs Mill Rd, pending Performance Bond (Unanimous)
• Approved CivicPlus: CivicEngage Central Website Upgrade (Unanimous)
• Approved camera system upgrade for Recreation Department Sweetwater Complex (Unanimous)
• Approved Mid-Year 2024 Budget Amendments (Unanimous)
• Approved July ACO Report (Unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting to discuss a range of new‑business items. Topics include a zero‑tolerance drug and alcohol policy for the transit department, a health‑department fee schedule, and updates to social media, vehicle, and financial policies. The board will also review a road‑work bid, a website upgrade, a recreation‑camera system upgrade, and mid‑year 2024 budget amendments. An executive session will be held for personnel and property matters.

• Discussion on McDuffie Transit DOT Zero Tolerance Drug & Alcohol Policy 2024
• Discussion on McDuffie County Health Department Fee Schedule
• Discussion regarding Bid No. 24-002 23-MCD-23 Old Milledgeville Rd at Gin Branch & 23-MCD-23 Hobbs Mill Rd at Sweetwater Creek
• Discussion on CivicPlus: CivicEngage Central Website Upgrade
• Discussion on Mid-Year 2024 Budget Amendments

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting on August 5, 2024, but took no substantive action on any agenda item. All 11 discussion items were deferred to future meetings, with several scheduled for the September 4 morning session. The board entered executive session to discuss personnel and property, then adjourned.

• Deferred transit drug/alcohol policy discussion to next meeting
• Deferred health department fee schedule discussion to next meeting
• Deferred social media policy discussion to Sept 4 morning session
• Deferred vehicle care/maintenance policy discussion to Sept 4 morning session
• Deferred financial policy discussion to Sept 4 morning session
• Deferred ambulance coverage termination notice to next meeting
• Deferred bid discussion for road projects to next meeting
• Entered executive session for personnel and property (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will consider a rezoning request for a subdivision near Wire Road and Augusta Highway, approve a road dedication for Montgomery Place, and review the monthly budget and financial reports.

• Rezoning request for subdivision near Wire Road and Augusta Highway
• Bid No. 2024-001 for resurfacing
• Accept dedication of roads, right-of-way, water, and storm-water infrastructure in Montgomery Place
• Temporary alcohol license for McTell Music Festival
• Reappointment of Ruthie Thomas to Recreation Advisory Board

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezoning request for a subdivision and a bid for road resurfacing. They also granted a temporary alcohol license for the McTell Music Festival and reappointed a member to the Recreation Advisory Board.

• Approved rezoning request for subdivision near Wire Road, Ellington Airline Road and Augusta Highway (unanimous)
• Approved Bid No. 2024-001 for Resurfacing (unanimous)
• Approved temporary alcohol license for Arts Council of Thomson - McTell Music Festival (unanimous)
• Approved dedication of infrastructure within Montgomery Place Subdivision upon project completion (unanimous)
• Reappointed Ruthie Thomas to the Recreation Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved July 1 and July 3 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved current agenda (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will review business items including a street resurfacing contract and a construction contract award. The agenda also includes discussions regarding naming policy and requests for a one-day alcohol license, street closure, and signage.

• Award Southern Asphalt, LLC the 2024 LMIG Contract to Resurface Select City Streets
• All South Construction Contract Award
• Naming Policy and Louis Graziano
• One Day Alcohol License, Street Closure and Signage Request

The City Council approved several infrastructure contracts, including water treatment plant improvements and street resurfacing. The council also supported renaming a portion of National Avenue and approved event permits for the Blind Willie McTell Music Festival.

• Awarded Augusta Road Water Treatment Plant contract to Allsouth Constructors, Inc. for $4,783,907.00 (5-0)
• Approved renaming a portion of National Avenue for Retired Master Sargent Louis Graziano (5-0)
• Approved one-day beer license, street closure, and signage for Blind Willie McTell Music Festival (4-0)
• Awarded 2024 LMIG street resurfacing contract to Southern Asphalt, LLC for $369,793.00 (5-0)
• Approved June 13, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

City of Thomson Council

This work session includes discussions on street resurfacing contracts and construction awards. The council will also review naming policies, alcohol license requests, and shared expenses with McDuffie County.

• Awarding Southern Asphalt, LLC the 2024 LMIG Contract to resurface select city streets
• All South Construction contract award
• Naming Policy and Louis Graziano discussion
• One Day Alcohol License, Street Closure and Signage Request
• Service Delivery Strategy costs and shared expenses with McDuffie County

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider several items, including a rezoning request for a solar operation on Wellmaker Road. The agenda also includes engineering authorizations and contracts related to senior services.

• Rezoning 70 acres on Wellmaker Road for a solar operation
• Alcohol license for convenience store at 1011 Whiteoak Road
• Engineering work authorization with Atlas Technical Consultants, LLC for East Bypass school entrance
• Contract with G.A. Good Services of Pinellas County, LLC for senior meals
• GEFA loan extension request

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a rezoning application for 70 acres on Wellmaker Road to allow a solar operation. The board also approved an alcohol license for a convenience store, engineering contracts for school and highway projects, and agreements for senior meal services and a loan extension.

• Agenda and June 18 minutes approved unanimously
• Rezoning of 70 acres on Wellmaker Road for solar operation approved unanimously
• Alcohol license for convenience store at 1011 Whiteoak Road approved unanimously
• Work authorization with Atlas Technical Consultants for school entrance drive on East Bypass approved unanimously
• Work authorization with Atlas Technical Consultants for gateway landscape at I-20 and Washington Road approved unanimously
• Verification of Position Funding for UGA Extension Office replacement approved unanimously
• CSRA RC Area Agency on Aging Subgrant Agreement for GA Foods Contract approved unanimously
• Contract with G.A. Good Services for senior meals approved unanimously

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a rezoning application for a solar operation on Wellmaker Road and an alcohol license for a convenience store. The agenda also includes engineering authorizations, ambulance coverage termination, and senior meal service contracts.

• Rezoning 70 acres on Wellmaker Road for a solar operation
• Alcohol license for a convenience store at 1011 Whiteoak Road
• Engineering and design authorizations with Atlas Technical Consultants, LLC
• Glascock County notice of termination regarding ambulance coverage agreement
• Senior meal service contract with G.A. Good Services of Pinellas County, LLC

The Board of Commissioners met on July 1, 2024, and discussed several items, but took no substantive votes. Most items — including a solar rezoning on Wellmaker Road, an alcohol license for a convenience store at 1011 Whiteoak Road, two work authorizations with Atlas Technical Consultants, a UGA Extension Office position, and senior meals contracts — were deferred to the next meeting agenda. The only item noted as discussion-only was a Glascock County notice of termination for ambulance coverage.

• No substantive decisions were made; most items were added to the next meeting agenda
• Solar rezoning on Wellmaker Road (70 acres) deferred to next meeting
• Alcohol license for convenience store at 1011 Whiteoak Road deferred to next meeting
• Atlas Technical Consultants work authorization for school entrance drive on East Bypass deferred to next meeting
• Atlas Technical Consultants work authorization for gateway landscape and signage at I-20 and Washington Road deferred to next meeting
• UGA Extension Office replacement position funding verification deferred to next meeting
• Glascock County ambulance coverage termination discussed only, no action taken
• CSRA RC Area Agency on Aging subgrant and G.A. Good Services senior meals contract deferred to next meeting

Board of Commissioners

The Board will consider rezoning applications for a 108.9-acre planned unit development and a solar operation. The meeting also includes discussions on a mutual aid agreement with the City of Harlem and contract renewals for UGA Cooperative Extension.

• Special exception for 108.9 acres at Thomson Bypass and Dallas Drive
• Rezoning 207.9 acres on Sturkey Lane and Wellmaker Road for solar use
• Rezoning 3.37 acres on Augusta Highway to C-2 District
• Fire Department Mutual Aid Agreement with the City of Harlem
• Alcohol license for SMAQ Investments LLC at 1850 Washington Road

The Board of Commissioners approved several rezoning applications and a special exception for a Planned Unit Development. They also approved a fire department mutual aid agreement and a health insurance renewal for 2024-2025. A request for a solar operation rezoning was tabled.

• Approved special exceptions for 108.9 acres at Thomson Bypass and Dallas Drive (unanimous)
• Tabled rezoning of 207.9 acres on Sturkey Lane and Wellmaker Road for solar operation (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 3.37 acres on Augusta Highway from R-2 to C-2 (unanimous)
• Approved health insurance renewal for July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025 (3-2)
• Approved Fire Department Mutual Aid Agreement with the City of Harlem (unanimous)
• Approved renewal contract with UGA Cooperative Extension (unanimous)
• Approved beer and wine license for SMAQ Investments LLC (unanimous)
• Approved Drug Court Subgrant Award (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The council will consider several requests regarding the use of public streets and parking lot access for upcoming community events. The meeting also includes reports from the Mayor and City Administrator.

• Popular Springs Baptist Church request to use Elections Parking Lot on July 20th
• Springfield Baptist Church request to close Martin Luther King, West and Springfield Streets on June 28th
• Recreation Department request to close Railroad Street and Augusta 1st for a Food Truck event on July 25th

The Thomson City Council approved requests from two churches and the Recreation Department to close specific streets for community events. The Council also voted to give raises to two city directors following a closed executive session. Additionally, the Council discussed the Augusta Road Water Treatment Plant bids, noting the lowest bid exceeded the available loan amount.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved May 9 and May 21 meeting minutes (5-0 each)
• Approved Popular Springs Baptist Church parking lot use for July 20 and July 27 (5-0)
• Approved Springfield Baptist Church street closure for June 28 (5-0)
• Approved TMRD Railroad Street closures for July 25 and August 1 (5-0)
• Entered Executive Session for personnel discussion (5-0)
• Approved raises for two Directors (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council is holding a work session to discuss police activities. No other substantive items are listed for discussion or decision at this meeting.

• Discussion of police activities

Board of Commissioners

The Board will consider a contract for Moose Club Road culvert repairs and an amendment to the CorrectHealth Services Agreement. They will also review the 2025 budget schedule and various appointments.

• Moose Club Road Culvert Repair via Utility Asset Management, Inc.
• Amendment to CorrectHealth Services Agreement (May 15 – July 14, 2024)
• Approval of the 2025 Budget Schedule
• Appointments/Reappointments for Recreation Advisory Board and Region Six EMS Council

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved several administrative and operational items. These included a culvert repair contract, an amendment to a health services agreement, and the schedule for the 2025 budget. The board also approved appointments to the Recreation Advisory Board and the Region Six EMS Council.

• Approved Utility Asset Management, Inc. for Moose Club Road Culvert Repair (unanimous)
• Approved Amendment to CorrectHealth Services Agreement May 15, 2024 - July 14, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 Budget Schedule (unanimous)
• Approved May 2024 ACO Report (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Harris Richards to Recreation Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Approved reappointment of Chief Stephen Sewell to Region Six EMS Council (unanimous)
• Approved current agenda and previous meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission will consider several land-use applications. These include requests for special exceptions for a planned unit development and rezoning for a solar operation and commercial district.

• Special exception for 108.9 acres at Thomson Bypass and Dallas Drive
• Rezoning 207.9 acres on Sturkey Lane and Wellmaker Road for a solar operation
• Rezoning 3.37 acres on Augusta Highway from R-2 to C-2

The board approved special exceptions for a residential and commercial development at Thomson Bypass and Dallas Drive. A request to adjust parcels for a solar operation was partially approved, while a rezoning request for a convenience store on Augusta Highway was denied.

• Approved variance for R-3 use on 108.9 acres at Thomson Bypass and Dallas Drive (6-0)
• Approved special exemption for solar operation on parcels 00640051G00, 00640051A00, 00640051C00, and 00640051E00 (6-0)
• Denied special exemption for solar operation on parcel 00710001F00 (6-0)
• Denied rezoning of 3.37 acres on Augusta Highway from R-2 to C-2 (5-1)
• Approved May 7, 2024 meeting minutes (6-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several administrative appointments and operational plans. Key topics include the 2025 budget schedule and a concept plan for the animal shelter.

• Animal Shelter Concept Plan discussion
• Proposed contract with Utility Asset Management, Inc. for Moose Club Road Culvert Repair
• Amendment to CorrectHealth Services Agreement (May 15, 2024 - July 14, 2024)
• Health insurance renewal discussion
• 2025 Budget Schedule discussion

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners met on June 3, 2024, but took no substantive action on the eight discussion items. Appointments to the Recreation Advisory Board and Region Six EMS Council, a Moose Club Road culvert repair contract, a CorrectHealth Services agreement amendment, the 2025 budget schedule, and the May 2024 ACO report were all deferred to the next meeting agenda. The animal shelter concept plan and health insurance renewal were discussion-only. The board entered a closed executive session on personnel after a unanimous vote.

• Deferred Recreation Advisory Board appointment/reappointment to next meeting agenda
• Deferred reappointment of Chief Stephen Sewell to Region Six EMS Council to next meeting agenda
• Animal Shelter Concept Plan discussed only; no action taken
• Deferred Utility Asset Management, Inc. for Moose Club Road Culvert Repair to next meeting agenda
• Deferred CorrectHealth Services Agreement amendment (May 15–July 14, 2024) to next meeting agenda
• Health Insurance Renewal discussed only; no action taken
• Deferred 2025 Budget Schedule to next meeting agenda
• Deferred May 2024 ACO Report approval to next meeting agenda

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will meet to discuss and potentially authorize contracts related to airport lighting engineering. The meeting focuses on specific project IDs provided by the Georgia Department of Transportation.

• GDOT Airport Lighting Engineering Contract PID T008743
• Resolution 03-2024: Authorization to Execute Contract PID Y008743

At a called meeting on May 21, 2024, the Thomson City Council approved a GDOT Airport Lighting Engineering Contract (PID T008743) and Resolution 03-2024, which authorizes Mayor Cranford to sign the contract. The contract covers updating the Fiscal Year 2024-2026 DBE plan at the Thomson-McDuffie Regional Airport and approves FY 24 design services for rehabilitating runway lighting, taxiway lighting and airfield signage, to be furnished by the City's airport engineering firm, Goodwyn Mills Cawood. The vote was 5-0. Council members also held a general discussion touching on the police force, roadside mowing and Freedom Blast fireworks, with no action recorded, and adjourned at 4:50pm.

• Approved GDOT Airport Lighting Engineering Contract PID T008743 and Resolution 03-2024 authorizing Mayor Cranford to sign it (5-0)
• Adjourned the called meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a contract for the Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project and the purchase of fireworks for Freedom Blast. The body will also review monthly budget and financial reports.

• Contract with CSRA Regional Commission for Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project for $50,000
• Purchase of fireworks for Freedom Blast not to exceed $6,000
• Proclamation designating May 19-25, 2024, as Emergency Medical Services Week
• Budget amendments

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a $50,000 contract with the CSRA Regional Commission for the Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project. They also approved up to $6,000 for fireworks for the Freedom Blast event and designated the week of May 19-25 as Emergency Medical Services Week. The board passed budget amendments and received monthly financial reports.

• Approved $50,000 contract with CSRA Regional Commission for Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project (unanimous)
• Approved fireworks purchase for Freedom Blast not to exceed $6,000 (unanimous)
• Approved Proclamation designating May 19-25 as Emergency Medical Services Week (unanimous)
• Approved budget amendments (unanimous)
• Approved current agenda and May 1 minutes (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate and reports. No new business is listed for decision or discussion.

The City Council approved updated policies for the 2023 Community Development Block Grant home improvement agreements. The council also granted a conditional request for a church to use a city parking lot for an event.

• Approved updated CDBG 2023 Policies and Procedures (5-0)
• Approved Popular Springs Baptist Church use of Elections Parking Lot on 5/19/2024 pending Special Event permit (5-0)
• Approved April 11, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission will meet to review a request for a zoning change from R-2 to R-1. The board will also discuss a Special Use Exemption for a composting operation at the same location.

• Zoning change from R-2 to R-1 on Boneville Road (Parcel 00640019)
• Special Use Exemption for a composting operation on Boneville Road (Parcel 00640019)

The board considered a zoning change from R-2 to R-1 and a Special Use Exemption for a composting operation on Boneville Road. Following discussion regarding watershed protections and resident concerns, the property owners requested the item be postponed. The board voted to table the request.

• Approved April 2, 2024 minutes (5-0)
• Tabled rezoning and Special Use Exemption for composting operation on Boneville Road (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several new business items. These include a service agreement with Trane and a contract change order for the Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project.

• Trane Scheduled Service Agreement
• Contract Change Order #3 for Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project
• Popular Baptist Church Community Outreach Event
• April 2024 ACO Report

The Board of Commissioners approved a contract change order for asphalt repair on the Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project and a Trane Scheduled Service Agreement. The board also approved a community outreach event for Popular Baptist Church and the April 2024 ACO Report.

• Approved Trane Scheduled Service Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Wrightsboro Road Sewer Project Contract Change Order #3 for asphalt repair (unanimous)
• Approved Popular Baptist Church Community Outreach Event (unanimous)
• Approved April 2024 ACO Report (unanimous)
• Approved April 16, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on a zoning change for a property on Boneville Road. The board will also review sewer project change orders and a service agreement.

• Zoning change from R-1 to R-2 on Boneville Road (Parcel 00630104)
• Temporary alcohol license application for Child Enrichment golf tournament on May 25, 2024
• Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project Change Order #1
• Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project Change Order #2
• Trane Scheduled Service Agreement

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on a zoning change for a property on Boneville Road. The meeting also includes reviews of sewer project change orders and a temporary alcohol license application.

• Zoning change from R-1 to R-2 on Boneville Road (Parcel 00630104)
• Temporary alcohol license for Child Enrichment Golf Tournament on May 25, 2024
• Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project Change Order #1
• Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project Change Order #2
• Trane Scheduled Service Agreement

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners approved a zoning change from R-1 to R-2 on Boneville Road (Parcel Number 00630104), a temporary alcohol license for a Child Enrichment golf tournament on May 25, 2024, and two change orders for the Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project. The board also approved a Trane scheduled service agreement and the purchase of two vehicles for the Planning and Zoning Department using contingency funds. All votes were unanimous. The meeting included a public hearing on the zoning change, public input on a tree on Wrightsboro Road and a Land Bank Authority property on Viola Avery, and monthly financial and budget reports.

• Approved zoning change from R-1 to R-2 on Boneville Road, Parcel Number 00630104 (unanimous)
• Approved temporary alcohol license for Child Enrichment golf tournament on May 25, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project Change Order #1 (unanimous)
• Approved Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project Change Order #2 (unanimous)
• Approved Trane scheduled service agreement (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of two vehicles for Planning and Zoning Department from contingency fund (unanimous)
• Approved current agenda with additional item for vehicle discussion and purchase (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of April 3, 2024 regular session (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will review a spirits license application for Rimpy’s on Old Washington Road. The meeting includes discussions on a GEFA drinking water loan resolution and a GMEBS agreement.

• Spirits License Application – Rimpy’s at 520 Old Washington Road
• Re-appointment of Penny Lowe to the Planning Commission
• Special Event Permit Request for Diabetes Awareness Walk on September 28th
• Resolution 03-2024: GEFA Loan LSLI2022022 Drinking Water State Revolving Fund
• Resolution 04-2024: GMEBS Agreement

With Mayor Cranford absent, Mayor Pro-Tem Corley chaired the April 11, 2024 meeting, leaving four councilmembers to vote. The Council approved a spirits license for Rimpy's at 520 Old Washington Road (3-0, Smalley abstaining), reappointed Penny Lowe to the Planning Commission for 2024-2027 (4-0), approved a special event permit for a September 28 Diabetes Awareness Walk (4-0), and approved a new GMEBS retirement plan agreement (4-0). A GEFA loan resolution (03-2024) was tabled without a vote at the City Administrator's request, to be revisited in a few months.

• Approved spirits license for Rimpy's at 520 Old Washington Road (3-0, Smalley abstaining)
• Reappointed Penny Lowe to Planning Commission for 2024-2027 term (4-0)
• Approved special event permit for Diabetes Awareness Walk on September 28, 2024 (4-0)
• Tabled Resolution 03-2024 (GEFA loan LSLI2022022) without a vote; to be revisited in a few months
• Approved Resolution 04-2024, new GMEBS retirement plan agreement (4-0)
• Approved March 14, 2024 council meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved April 1, 2024 called council meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda as written (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss budget amendments and funding. The body will also consider an audit engagement letter and a Planning Commission appointment.

• 2023 Year-End Budget Amendments
• Additional LMIG Funding
• Audit Engagement Letter with Baird & Company
• Re-appointment of Georgia Hobbs to the Planning Commission Board
• Tax Assessment review for residential home of Mary McNair

The Board of Commissioners approved several administrative items, including the 2023 year-end budget amendments and an audit engagement letter with Baird & Company. A motion to refund a portion of previous taxes for a residential home was denied.

• Re-appointed Georgia Hobbs to the Planning Commission Board (unanimous)
• Approved proclamation for National Public Safety Communications Week (unanimous)
• Approved additional LMIG funding (unanimous)
• Denied refund of county's one-third portion of 2012-2020 taxes for Mary McNair (2-3)
• Approved 2023 Year-End Budget Amendments (unanimous)
• Approved audit engagement letter with Baird & Company (unanimous)
• Approved March 2024 ACO Report (unanimous)

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss one new business item. The board will review an application to change the zoning of a specific parcel on Boneville Road.

• Zoning change application from R-1 to R-2 for Parcel 00630104 on Boneville Road

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a zoning change on Boneville Road. The board also approved the minutes from the March 5, 2024 meeting.

• Recommended approval of zoning change from R-1 to R-2 for Parcel 6630104 on Boneville Road (6-0)
• Approved March 5, 2024 minutes (6-0)

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council is holding a called meeting to address one item of business. The council will consider Ordinance 585 regarding the election of a Mayor Pro-Tem.

• Ordinance 585: Mayor Pro-Tem Election

The City Council voted on whether to uphold or overturn the mayor's veto of Tentative Ordinance 585. The vote to override the veto failed, leaving the City Charter unchanged.

• Veto override of Tentative Ordinance 585 denied (3-2)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several administrative items. The meeting includes reviews of budget amendments, funding, and an audit engagement letter.

• 2023 Year-End Budget Amendments
• Audit Engagement Letter with Baird & Company
• Additional LMIG Funding
• Tax Assessor report for residential home of Mary McNair
• Proclamation for National Public Safety Communications Week (April 14th-April 20th)

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners held a work session on Monday, April 1, 2024 at 6:30 pm in the Government Complex Meeting Room. The minutes state that all agenda items were for discussion only and no action was taken. Six items were discussed and each was set to be added to the next meeting agenda, including a National Public Safety Communications Week proclamation, additional LMIG funding, a tax assessor report for the residential home of Mary McNair, 2023 year-end budget amendments, an audit engagement letter with Baird & Company, and the March 2024 ACO report. No decisions, approvals, denials, or vote tallies were recorded.

• No action taken; work session items were discussion only
• National Public Safety Communications Week proclamation (April 14–20) added to next meeting agenda
• Additional LMIG funding added to next meeting agenda
• Tax Assessor report for residential home of Mary McNair added to next meeting agenda
• 2023 Year-End Budget Amendments added to next meeting agenda
• Audit Engagement Letter with Baird & Company added to next meeting agenda
• March 2024 ACO Report added to next meeting agenda

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and vote on rezoning and a buffer variance for property on Rousseau Creek Road. The body is also considering the purchase of a new ambulance and a fiber conduit for the Recreation Department.

• Rezone property on Rousseau Creek Road from R-1 to C-1
• Vegetative Buffer Variance for property on Rousseau Creek Road
• Purchase of a 2024 Ford Wheeled Coach ambulance from ETR for $363,351.00
• Purchase of 1 Accord Concession Stand Fiber Conduit for the Recreation Department for $5,600
• Temporary Alcohol License for Willie Mac’s for Summer Kickoff at Raysville Marina

The Board of Commissioners approved rezoning a Rousseau Creek Road property from R-1 to C-1, limited to boat and RV storage, and approved a vegetative buffer variance with strict enforcement conditions. Commissioners also approved a temporary alcohol license for Willie Mac's Summer Kickoff at Raysville Marina, the $363,351.00 purchase of a 2024 Ford Wheeled Coach ambulance from ETR, and $5,600 for a 1 Accord concession stand fiber conduit for the Recreation Department. The agenda and March 6, 2024 minutes were approved unanimously, and the meeting adjourned at 7:29 p.m.

• Approved rezoning Rousseau Creek Road property from R-1 to C-1, limited to boat and RV storage (unanimous)
• Approved vegetative buffer variance on Rousseau Creek Road with strict nature-barrier enforcement and 100-foot buffer reversion if not used as intended (unanimous)
• Approved temporary alcohol license for Willie Mac's Summer Kickoff at Raysville Marina (carried; Thompson abstained)
• Approved purchase of 2024 Ford Wheeled Coach ambulance from ETR for $363,351.00 (unanimous)
• Approved $5,600 for 1 Accord concession stand fiber conduit for Recreation Department (unanimous)
• Approved current agenda and March 6, 2024 regular meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:29 p.m. (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will meet to discuss several contracts and administrative resolutions. Key items include the selection of an airport maintenance provider and a loan modification. The body will also consider a request for the use of the Government Center for Juneteenth.

• DBT Aviation contract for airport maintenance provider
• Resolution 01-2024: GEFA Loan CW2020015 Modification
• Ordinance changing how Mayor Pro-Tem is determined (Second Reading)
• CSRA Probation Services contract update
• NAACP request to use Government Center for June 15, 2024 Juneteenth Celebration

The City Council adopted Ordinance 585 to change how the Mayor Pro-Tem is appointed. The council also approved several contract renewals and a loan modification for the Waste Water Treatment Plant.

• Adopted Ordinance 585 to have Mayor Pro-Tem elected by Council every even numbered year (3-2)
• Approved Resolution 01-2024 to modify GEFA loan repayment dates for Waste Water Treatment Plant (5-0)
• Approved one-year contract extension for CSRA Probation Services ending March 31, 2025 (5-0)
• Approved two-year contract renewal for DBT Aviation (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 02-2024 appointing Kenneth Usry as Gas Authority voting delegate and Trelles Robinson as alternate (5-0)
• Approved NAACP request to use Government Center exterior for Juneteenth Celebration on June 15, 2024 (5-0)
• Approved February 8, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)

County Administration

The Land Bank Authority is meeting to discuss the removal of certain delinquent ad valorem property taxes. The board will also consider a brokerage agreement for a property on Washington Road.

• Resolution to extinguish certain delinquent ad valorem property taxes
• Commercial Exclusive Seller Brokerage Agreement for Washington Road property

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss several administrative updates and contract approvals. Topics include a proposal for misdemeanor drug possession fines and a change to how the Mayor Pro-Tem is determined.

• Ordinance changing how Mayor Pro-Tem is determined (second reading)
• Resolution 01-2024 regarding GEFA Loan CW2020015 modification
• Contract approvals for Atlas Engineering and DBT Aviation
• Recommendation to implement fines for misdemeanor drug possession
• NAACP request to use Government Center for Juneteenth on June 15, 2024

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several contracts and equipment purchases, including software for the Planning and Zoning Department. The body is also considering a new EMS fee schedule and the naming of a portion of West Bypass.

• Wrightsboro Road Sewer Improvements-Addendum 3
• Purchase of one E-ONE HR 100’ Aerial with 1500 GPM Hale Pump (2025 Model)
• Cloudpermit building permitting and licensing software for Planning and Zoning
• Amended McDuffie County EMS Schedule of Fees
• Naming a portion of West Bypass in memory of Special Agent Bob Kirk

The Board of Commissioners approved several operational contracts, including a new aerial fire truck and Cloudpermit software for planning and zoning. Other actions included naming a portion of West Bypass and approving a trash amnesty day.

• Approved Wrightsboro Road Sewer Improvements-Addendum 3 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of one 2025 E-ONE HR 100’ Aerial fire truck (unanimous)
• Approved Cloudpermit building permitting and licensing software for Planning and Zoning (unanimous)
• Approved naming a portion of West Bypass in memory of Special Agent Bob Kirk (unanimous)
• Approved amended McDuffie County EMS Schedule of Fees (unanimous)
• Approved Trash Amnesty Day for March 23 or 30 (unanimous)
• Selected Vice Chair Wilson as delegate for Georgia Opioid Settlement Advisory Commission and Regional Advisory Council (unanimous)
• Approved GEMA Statewide Mutual Aid and Assistance Agreement (unanimous)

Planning and Zoning

The McDuffie County Planning Commission will consider two applications regarding properties on Rousseau Creek Road. The body will discuss a zoning change and a variance for buffer requirements.

• Zoning change application from R-1 to C-1 on Rousseau Creek Road (Parcel 00600002C00)
• Variance application for buffer requirements at Rousseau Creek Road and Cobbham Road (Parcel 00600002B00)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting for a work session to discuss various contracts, software, and equipment purchases. The items listed are for discussion and consideration rather than final votes.

• Purchase of one E-ONE HR 100’ Aerial with 1500 GPM Hale Pump
• Wrightsboro Road Sewer Improvements-Addendum 3
• Cloudpermit building permitting and licensing software for Planning and Zoning
• Naming a portion of West Bypass in memory of Special Agent Bob Kirk
• Trash Amnesty Day scheduled for March 23rd or 30th

The Board of Commissioners held a work session to discuss several agenda items. No action was taken during the meeting, and all discussed items were added to the next meeting agenda.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings regarding variances and rezoning for three properties. The meeting also includes decisions on surpusing Sheriff's Department vehicles and servers, as well as networking infrastructure approvals.

• Variances for development at 1860 Dallas Drive
• Rezoning of 0.39 acres at 791 Augusta Road
• Variance for accessory structures at 1280 Washington Road
• Surplus of four Sheriff’s Department vehicles
• Approval of Fortinet Networking Switch and Access Points for 20 sites

The Board of Commissioners approved several land-use variances and a rezoning request. The board also authorized the surplus of Sheriff's Department equipment and approved various IT infrastructure upgrades.

• Approved variances for hotel development at 1860 Dallas Drive (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 0.39 acres at 791 Augusta Road (unanimous)
• Approved variance for accessory structures at 1280 Washington Road (unanimous)
• Approved surpusing four Sheriff’s Department vehicles via GovDeals (unanimous)
• Approved decommissioning and recycling servers 512 and 562 from Sheriff’s Department (unanimous)
• Approved Fortinet networking switch and access points for 20 county-wide sites (unanimous)
• Approved NAACP 4th Annual Juneteenth and Father’s Day Celebration (unanimous)
• Approved Cranston Engineering fee proposal modification from $299K to $270K (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will meet to address several administrative appointments and a proposed charter change. The body will also consider a temporary street closure and agreements with an engineering firm.

• Temporary street closure of Georgia Avenue on February 14, 2024
• Proposed charter change regarding the method to appoint Mayor Pro Tem
• Appointment to Gas Authority
• LMIG 2024 and Engineering Firm agreements
• Personnel vacancies and intergovernmental agreements

The City Council approved the retention of Atlas Technical Consultants for 2024 LMIG engineering services and a temporary road closure for Ash Wednesday. A proposed ordinance regarding the Mayor Pro-Tem was tabled until March.

• Approved temporary closure of one lane of Georgia Avenue on Feb 14 (5-0)
• Approved Kenneth L. Usry to fulfill remainder of Gas Authority Board appointment (5-0)
• Tabled Mayor Pro-Tem Ordinance discussion until March meeting (5-0)
• Approved retaining Atlas Technical Consultants for 2024 LMIG engineering contract (5-0)
• Approved agenda as written (5-0)
• Approved Jan 10, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved Jan 11, 2024 meeting minutes (5-0)

Planning and Zoning

The commission will review several requests regarding land use and property setbacks. Items include two rezoning requests in Thomson and Dearing, as well as variance requests for properties on Washington Road and Dallas Drive.

• Rezoning .39 acres from R-1 to C-1 at 791 Augusta Road, Thomson
• Rezoning 5 acres from RA to R-SF1 at Old Augusta Road, Dearing
• Variance for accessory structure distance requirements at 1280 Washington Road, Thomson
• Multiple variances for a hotel property at 1860 Dallas Drive, Thomson

The Thomson-McDuffie County Planning Commission met on February 6, 2024, with all six members present. The commission approved the December 5, 2023 minutes (5-0-1, Commissioner Matt Milburn abstained). In new business, the commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of four requests: a rezoning from R-1 to C-1 at 791 Augusta Road, a rezoning from RA to R-SF1 on Old Augusta Road in Dearing for six homes, a setback variance for a warehouse at 1280 Washington Road, and multiple variances for a hotel and restaurant at 1860 Dallas Drive. All recommendations now go to the full Board of Commissioners for final action.

• Approved December 5, 2023 minutes (5-0-1, Milburn abstained)
• Recommended approval of rezoning .39 acre from R-1 to C-1 at 791 Augusta Road, Thomson (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of rezoning 5 acres from RA to R-SF1 on Old Augusta Road, Dearing, for six homes (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of setback variance for accessory structure at 1280 Washington Road, Thomson, with civil engineering plans required (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of multiple variances for hotel/restaurant at 1860 Dallas Drive, Thomson, with conditions including buffer, fence, and turn lane (unanimous)
• Adjourned (6-0)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss several administrative and operational items. Topics include a temporary street closure and personnel appointments.

• Temporary street closure of Georgia Ave on 2/14/2024
• Appointment to Gas Authority
• Discussion regarding Mayor Pro-Tem
• Personnel vacancies and intergovernmental agreements
• Planning for Council Retreat on Feb 21-22 at Augusta Tech

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the Eubank Park and Community Center and the purchase of a Yard Dog truck for Public Works. They are considering approvals for several service contracts and a final road resurfacing project list.

• Resolution 24-2 for Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) Program funding
• Microsoft 365 through Dell Technologies
• Atlas consulting services for the County’s Road Improvement Program
• Ethos grant application services for Rock House preservation projects
• Final Road Resurfacing Project List

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved several items, including a work authorization with Atlas for road improvement consulting, funding for the Victims of Crime Act (VOCA) program, and a Microsoft 365 license. The board also approved the purchase of a Yard Dog truck for Public Works and grant application services for the Rock House preservation project. A discussion on the Eubank Park improvement plan and the final road resurfacing list occurred without a recorded vote, and the board entered executive session to discuss personnel and property.

• Agenda and minutes approved unanimously
• Purchase of new or used Yard Dog truck for Public Works approved unanimously
• Resolution 24-2 for VOCA Program funding approved unanimously
• Microsoft 365 through Dell Technologies approved unanimously
• Work Authorization with Atlas for road improvement consulting approved unanimously
• Grant Application Services with Ethos for Rock House preservation approved unanimously
• CivicClerk Boards and Committees Module approved unanimously
• Executive session on personnel and property entered unanimously

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on variances and a special exemption for two properties. The board will also consider changes to fee schedules and a grant agreement for the Blind Willie McTell Park and Amphitheater.

• Variances and special exemption for 168 Branan Street and 166 Honey Hole Road
• Modifications to Animal Services, Campground, and Planning & Zoning fee schedules
• ARPA Blind Willie McTell Park and Amphitheater Grant Agreement

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved variances and a special exemption for properties at 168 Branan Street and 166 Honey Hole Road. They also approved modifications to the schedule of fees for Animal Services, Campground, and Planning & Zoning, and accepted an ARPA grant agreement for Blind Willie McTell Park and Amphitheater. The board combined the February 6 regular session with the February 4 work session due to a leadership conflict.

• Approved variances and special exemption for 168 Branan Street and 166 Honey Hole Road (unanimous)
• Approved modifications to fees for Animal Services, Campground, and Planning & Zoning (unanimous)
• Approved ARPA Blind Willie McTell Park and Amphitheater Grant Agreement with OPB (unanimous)
• Combined Feb 6 Regular Session with Feb 4 Work Session due to leadership conflict (unanimous)
• Approved Monthly Budget and Financial Reports (unanimous)

County Administration

The Land Bank Authority is meeting to consider the purchase of a property from a tax sale and the removal of outstanding taxes on three parcels. The body will also discuss two specific property addresses.

• Purchase of 314 Sycamore Street from Tax Sale
• Request to remove outstanding taxes for Parcel T34-1B00, Parcel T35-133, and Parcel T12-187B
• Discussion concerning 124 Pine Lane
• Discussion concerning 200 Viola Avery

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will meet to discuss the final budget amendments for 2023. The meeting also includes the installation of elected officials and the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• 2023 Final Budget Amendments
• Installation of elected officials

The City Council held an installation ceremony for elected officials, including the transfer of the gavel to Mayor Benji Cranford. The Council also approved year-end budget amendments totaling $80,977.00.

• Approved agenda as written (5-0)
• Approved minutes from December 14 and December 29, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved 2023 budget amendments totaling $80,977.00 (5-0)

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council is holding a called meeting to appoint a new Police Chief. The agenda includes an executive session regarding personnel.

• Appointment of new Police Chief

The Council voted to offer the vacant Police Chief position to Lt. Dan Carrier of the Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. The Council also authorized the City Administrator to explore alternatives to the current police pay rate structure.

• Approved offer for Police Chief position to Lt. Dan Carrier (4-0)
• Approved exploration of alternative Police Department pay rate structure (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to consider appointing a County Attorney and County Clerk. The session includes votes on a funding request for MediaOne and a services agreement for law enforcement cameras.

• Appointment of Davis Dunaway as County Attorney
• Appointment of Carrie Edwards as County Clerk
• MediaOne funding request
• Resolution 24-01: Setting Qualifying Fees
• Master Services Agreement with Flock Group, Inc. for law enforcement cameras

The Board of Commissioners approved several appointments and agreements, including the appointment of a County Attorney and County Clerk. The board also approved a funding request for MediaOne and a services agreement for law enforcement cameras.

• Appointed Davis Dunaway as County Attorney (Unanimous)
• Appointed Carrie Edwards as County Clerk (Unanimous)
• Approved MediaOne funding request (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 24-01 setting qualifying fees (Unanimous)
• Approved Master Services Agreement with Flock Group, Inc. for law enforcement cameras (Unanimous)
• Approved December ACO Report (Unanimous)