Newton County public meetings in 2025

Solid Waste Authority

The Newton County Solid Waste Management Authority will review financial status and tonnage reports for November. The body will discuss the Solid Waste Management Plan and updates regarding waste excavation. Members will also consider the purchase of a Hitachi 350 Excavator and a 740 CAT Haul Truck.

• Purchase of a Hitachi 350 Excavator
• Purchase of a 740 CAT Haul Truck
• Newton County Solid Waste Management Plan
• Harbin Engineering and Peed Brothers invoices
• Trees along Piper Road Convenience Center Border

The Newton County Solid Waste Management Authority unanimously approved payment of the Harbin Engineering invoice, ratified the purchase of a Hitachi 350 excavator for $172,000, and approved the purchase of a 2010 CAT haul truck for $130,000. Members also agreed to request a revised payment request from Peed Brothers for $142,378.82 and to review cost estimates for tree removal along Piper Road. All agenda and minutes items were adopted without opposition.

• Approved payment of Harbin Engineering invoice (amount under $130,000) – all voted in favor
• Ratified purchase of Hitachi 350 excavator for $172,000 – all voted in favor
• Approved purchase of 2010 CAT haul truck for $130,000 – all voted in favor
• Requested Peed Brothers submit revised pay request for $142,378.82 – all voted in favor
• Adopted meeting agenda – all voted in favor
• Approved minutes from 11‑6‑25 meeting – all voted in favor
• Agreed to review cost estimates for tree removal at Piper Road – all voted in favor
• Entered and exited executive session to discuss personnel matters – all voted in favor

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners will consider ratifying contracts, appointing officials, and creating street light districts. The board will also discuss budget transfers, new positions, and a proposed ordinance regarding retirement supplements for superior court judges.

• Ratification of Juvenile Court Break the Cycle counseling contracts ($177,430)
• Creation of street light districts for Westfield Village and Fairview Chase subdivisions
• Ordinance to amend retirement supplement for Superior Court Judges
• Consideration of 8 new Detention Officer positions ($397,595.52)
• Budget transfer for a new Human Resources Generalist position ($45,588.00)

The commissioners approved $15,000 to fund a warming shelter in collaboration with the City of Covington (vote 5‑0). They also approved five zoning-related actions, including a future land‑use amendment, a conditional use permit for a tree‑service/sawmill, and three rezoning petitions, each passing unanimously. Additionally, two juvenile‑court service contracts were ratified.

• Approved $15,000 warming shelter fund (vote 5‑0)
• Approved FLU25-000008 future land‑use amendment to HDR (vote 5‑0)
• Approved CUP25-000013 conditional use permit for tree service/sawmill with conditions (vote 5‑0)
• Approved REZ25-000004 rezoning to Rural Estate with conditions (vote 5‑0)
• Approved REZ25-000006 rezoning to Heavy Industrial, limiting use to existing hydro‑electric generator repair business (vote 5‑0)
• Approved REZ25-000007 rezoning to Heavy Industrial, same use limitation (vote 5‑0)
• Ratified Juvenile Court professional services agreement with Break the Cycle Counseling – up to $93,980
• Ratified Juvenile Court professional services agreement with Break the Cycle Counseling – up to $83,450

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners has called a special meeting for December 2, 2025. The agenda consists of an executive session to discuss litigation.

• Executive session regarding litigation

The Board approved the meeting agenda with a 5-0 vote. It then voted 5-0 to enter executive session to discuss litigation. Finally, the Board adjourned the meeting by a 5-0 vote.

• Adopted agenda (5-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss litigation (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Newton County Planning Commission will review several petitions, including a rezoning request for 91 & 100 Edgefield Lane, a conditional use permit for a tree service/sawmill at 55 Potts Lane, and rezoning applications for parcels on Woodlawn Road and Snapping Shoals Road. Additional items include a request for an in‑home daycare at 215 Lanella Parkway and a solar panel installation request at 40 Saddlebrook Lane. The commission will vote on each petition during the special meeting.

• FLU25-000008 – Amend FLUM to HDR and rezone 91 & 100 Edgefield Ln to RMF (0.55 & 0.51 ac)
• CUP25-000013 – Conditional use permit for a tree service/sawmill at 55 Potts Ln (33.68 ac)
• REZ25-000004 – Rezone 1286 Woodlawn Rd from Agricultural to Rural Estate (4.67 ac)
• REZ25-000006 – Rezone 115 Snapping Shoals Rd to Heavy Industrial (M‑2) (10.19 ac)
• AUP25-000007 – Request to establish an in‑home children’s daycare at 215 Lanella Pkwy (1.66 ac)

Solid Waste Authority

The Newton County Solid Waste Management Authority will review and potentially approve a D & O Task Order Amendment. It will also receive updates on landfill tonnage, the month‑5 financial status for FY 2026, equipment, and waste excavation. The meeting includes routine items such as minutes approval, officer nominations, and an executive session if needed.

• October Landfill Tonnage Reports
• Financial Status for Solid Waste for Month 5 (October) of FY 2026
• D & O Task Order Amendment
• Equipment and Department Update
• Waste Excavation Update

The Solid Waste Management Authority voted unanimously to approve the purchase of a 2015 CAT 740B truck and two excavators (a 2019 CAT 336 and a 2018 DEERE 470G). The board also approved the new SWMA logo design, the 2026 meeting calendar, and the slate of officers for 2026. In the executive session members authorized reclassifying one Operator 2 position, creating a new Operator 2 and a Maintenance Worker position, and granting a 25% salary increase for the Solid Waste Director.

• Approved purchase of 2015 CAT 740B Truck (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2019 CAT 336 Excavator (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2018 DEERE 470G Excavator (unanimous)
• Approved new SWMA logo combining font from Option C and colors from Option A (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 SWMA meeting schedule (unanimous)
• Approved same slate of officers for 2026 as 2025 (unanimous)
• Authorized reclassification of one Operator 2 to Operator 3 and creation of new Operator 2 and Maintenance Worker positions (unanimous)
• Authorized 25% salary increase for the Solid Waste Director (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will vote on several infrastructure contracts and facility renovations funded by SPLOST. The meeting includes discussions on juvenile court services, a new Fire Marshal position, and the establishment of a warming shelter.

• Massana Construction, Inc. contract for 2025 Maintenance and Repair Project Phase II: $1,311,380.00
• Pittman Construction Company contract for Henderson Mill Road 2 Foot Widening Project: $565,653.50
• Four contract amendments for Sunbelt Builders, Inc. regarding the Nelson Heights Community Center, Senior Services Enrichment Center, Administration Building, and R.L. Cousins Center
• Establishment of funds up to $15,000.00 for a warming shelter in collaboration with the City of Covington
• Annexation of Parcel 0129-058 (approximately 20.0 acres) by the City of Mansfield

The Newton County Board approved several contracts and agreements, including a $1,311,380 maintenance and repair contract, a $565,653.50 road widening contract, a $47,000 transportation services MOU, and a full‑time Fire Marshal position. It also approved the annexation of about 20 acres by the City of Mansfield and a budget transfer to add new paving crew positions. Two counseling service contracts were tabled until the December 2 meeting. All actions passed with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved FY2026 Transportation Services MOU with NEGRC ($47,000) (5-0)
• Approved Massana Construction contract for Maintenance & Repair Phase II ($1,311,380) (5-0)
• Approved Pittman Construction contract for Henderson Mill Road widening ($565,653.50) (5-0)
• Approved Dobbs Road LLC performance bond agreement (no cost) (5-0)
• Approved Sunbelt Builders amendment for Nelson Heights Community Center ($83,113 amendment) (5-0)
• Approved annexation of ~20 acres by City of Mansfield (5-0)
• Approved budget transfer for new paving crew positions (5-0)
• Approved creation of a full‑time Fire Marshal position (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners will hold a special called meeting to discuss litigation and land acquisition before adjourning. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, November 4, 2025, at 6:30 PM at the Historic Courthouse.

• Special called meeting to discuss litigation and land acquisition
• Executive session to discuss litigation and land acquisition
• Meeting at Historic Courthouse - 1124 Clark Street, Covington, GA 30014

The commissioners approved the agenda, voted to enter executive session for litigation and land‑acquisition discussion, and then adjourned the meeting. All three motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote. No substantive policy or budget items were decided.

• Adopted agenda (5-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss litigation and land acquisition (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning Commission

The Newton County Planning Commission meeting on Oct. 28, 2025 will review six petitions. Items include a request to amend the future land use map for two parcels on Edgefield Lane and rezone them to Multi‑Family Residential, a conditional use permit for a tree‑service/sawmill at 55 Potts Lane, and several rezoning applications for properties in District 1. The commission will also hear a request for an in‑home children’s daycare at 215 Lanella Parkway.

• FLU25-000008: Amend FLUM to HDR and rezone 91 & 100 Edgefield Ln to RMF (0.55 & 0.51 acres).
• CUP25-000013: Conditional use permit for a tree service/sawmill at 55 Potts Ln (33.68 acres).
• REZ25-000004: Rezone 1286 Woodlawn Rd from Agricultural to Rural Estate to enable subdivision.
• REZ25-000006: Rezone 115 Snapping Shoals Rd from Agricultural Residential to M‑2 Heavy Industrial for a transfer station.
• REZ25-000007: Rezone 140 Snapping Shoals Rd from Agricultural Residential to M‑2 Heavy Industrial for a transfer station.

Board of Zoning Appeals

The Newton County Board of Zoning Appeals will meet on October 23, 2025 at 7:00 PM in the Historic Courthouse boardroom. The agenda includes a variance application (VAR25-000004) for an 18.24‑acre rural residential parcel on Richards Chapel Road. The applicant seeks relief from the flag‑lot road‑frontage requirements in Sec. 1505‑030(E.2.).

• Variance VAR25-000004 for 18.24‑acre parcel (Map & Parcel No. 0008 055) on Richards Chapel Rd, seeking relief from Sec. 1505‑030(E.2.) flag‑lot road‑frontage rules.
• Applicant: Lonnie D. Cox, 1386 Gardner Rd NW, Conyers, GA 30012; Agent: John Brewer (W&A Engineering).
• Companion cases listed: FLU25-000003 & REZ25-000005.

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners will discuss three annexation requests to bring large parcels into the City of Covington for data center and technology campus development. They will also review several budget transfers for new positions in senior services, public works, and the fleet department. Additional items include contract amendments for community projects and a security‑light contract for Factory Shoals Park.

• Annexation request for Alcovy Rise, LLC: 1,522.68 acres at 600 Elks Club Road for a data center
• Annexation request for Falconwood Farms, LLC: parcels at 10383 and 10385 Highway 278 for a data center
• Annexation request for Shrouds Creek Road/Lakewood Drive area: ~753.03 acres for a technology campus
• Sunbelt Builders contract amendment #2 for Nelson Heights Community Center: $83,113 (SPLOST 23)
• Contract with Snapping Shoals Electric Membership Corp for security lights at Factory Shoals Park: $1,280 trenching, $11.90 monthly

The board approved several contracts and budget transfers, each passing unanimously. It adopted an amended agenda and approved the consent agenda. Most notably, the board adopted three resolutions objecting to annexation requests by the City of Covington and the City of Social Circle, citing concerns over data center and industrial development. The annexation resolutions passed with one commissioner abstaining.

• Amended agenda (add item 8a, remove items 15 and 16) approved 5-0
• Consent agenda approved 5-0, including mental health court addendum and cancellation of Nov/Dec meetings
• SFY 2026 Aging Services contract with NEGRC ($461,891.62) approved 5-0
• Intergovernmental agreements update for municipal tax collection approved 5-0
• Budget transfer of $334,260 for new Public Works and Senior Services positions approved 5-0
• Budget transfer of $58,159 for Fleet Department position reclassification/creation approved 5-0
• Ross Associates professional services agreement for impact fee update ($55,650) approved 5-0
• Resolutions objecting to three annexation proposals (Covington/Alcovy Rise, Covington/Strategic Development Partners, Social Circle/Shrouds Creek) passed with one abstention

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners will hold a special called meeting to enter into executive session regarding litigation and land acquisition. The meeting is scheduled for 5:30 PM at the Historic Courthouse.

• Executive session for litigation and land acquisition
• Meeting at Historic Courthouse, 1124 Clark Street

The board approved the meeting agenda by a 3‑0 vote. It then approved entering executive session to discuss litigation, land acquisition and personnel, also by a 3‑0 vote. Finally, the board adjourned the meeting with a unanimous 4‑0 vote. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adopted agenda (3-0)
• Entered executive session to discuss litigation, land acquisition and personnel (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Solid Waste Authority

The Newton County Solid Waste Management Authority will consider several routine items, including approval of recent meeting minutes and September landfill tonnage reports. It will also discuss the month’s financial status, an update to the solid waste management plan, and a grant application for a generator. Additional updates on equipment and operations will be provided.

• Approval of minutes from SWMA regular meetings (8-14-25 and 9-11-25)
• September landfill tonnage reports
• Financial status for solid waste for September (Month 4 of FY 2026)
• Solid Waste Management Plan update
• Generator grant application

The board unanimously approved Atlantic Coast Consulting Task Order 2025-01 and Task Order 2025-02. It also authorized the Solid Waste Manager to purchase a new inbound scale and related technology upgrades. Additionally, the board approved moving forward with Scenario 4 for waste excavation and the rental plan for top‑soil screen equipment.

• Approved ACC Task Order 2025-01 (unanimous)
• Approved ACC Task Order 2025-02 (unanimous)
• Authorized purchase of new scale and technology upgrades (unanimous)
• Authorized start of Scenario 4 waste excavation process (unanimous)
• Approved top‑soil screen, stacker, and excavator rental plan (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners and Planning Commission will hold a special called meeting. The session is dedicated to discussing the Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) update.

• Unified Development Ordinance (UDO) update

The Board of Commissioners reviewed a presentation on the Unified Development Ordinance update. No resolutions, approvals, or votes were recorded. The meeting was then adjourned.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will vote on several infrastructure contracts and federal grants for juvenile and mental health courts. The meeting includes a public hearing for four zoning and conditional use permit requests. Members will also consider allocations from the National Opioid Settlement.

• Right of way services for Brown Bridge Road @ Crowell Road Intersection Improvement Project: $206,410.00
• Fire Services reporting software change to ImageTrend: $188,089.50
• Opioid Settlement Funds allocations: $165,000.00
• Yellow River Bridge replacement (CR 511/Brown Bridge Road) Change Order #1: $79,157.50
• Conditional use permit for a C-store and restaurant at 12955 Brown Bridge Road

The Newton County Board of Commissioners approved a series of unanimous motions, including a budget transfer to hire two full‑time public defender positions. It also adopted an $125,000 allocation from opioid settlement funds, a contract for ImageTrend software, an Amazon donation, and several infrastructure and right‑of‑way agreements. Additionally, the board approved rezoning of a property at 6610 Hwy 20 to Agricultural Residential.

• Approved consent agenda items (MoUs, grant acceptances, etc.) – vote 5-0
• Approved budget transfer to fund two new full‑time public defender positions – vote 5-0
• Approved ImageTrend software contract for Fire Services, $188,089.50 – vote 5-0
• Approved Amazon donation of $12,800 to Parks and Recreation – vote 5-0
• Approved Change Order #1 Wright Brothers Construction for Brown Bridge Road bridge, $79,157.50 – vote 5-0
• Approved Johnson, Mirmiran & Thompson agreement for right‑of‑way services, $206,410 – vote 5-0
• Approved allocation of $125,000 from opioid settlement funds – vote 5-0
• Approved rezoning REZ25‑000008 (6610 Hwy 20) to Agricultural Residential – vote 5-0

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners will hold a special called meeting on Thursday, October 2, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. The meeting will be adjourned into executive session, which is not open to the public. In that session, commissioners will discuss and deliberate the hiring or appointment of employees.

• Adjourn to executive session to discuss hiring or appointment of employees

Planning Commission

The Newton County Planning Commission will review two rezoning petitions (REZ25-000008 for 6610 Hwy 20 and REZ25-000009 for 825 Davis Ford Rd) and two conditional‑use permits (CUP25-000011 for a C‑store with gas pumps at 12955 Brown Bridge Rd and CUP25-000012 for a tree‑service business at 4248 Hwy 212). Each item includes the applicant’s name, parcel details, current and proposed land‑use classifications, and acreage. The meeting also notes a general discussion of solar‑panel applications across all districts.

• REZ25-000008: Rezone 9.26 ac at 6610 Hwy 20 from Neighborhood Commercial (CN) to Agricultural Residential (A‑R) – applicant Briana Scott
• CUP25-000011: Conditional use permit for a C‑store with gas pumps and drive‑through/drive‑in restaurant on 2.047 ac at 12955 Brown Bridge Rd – applicant Ishan Hakani
• CUP25-000012: Conditional use permit for a tree‑service business on 47.61 ac at 4248 Hwy 212 – applicant Tiffany Fuller
• REZ25-000009: Rezone 11.23 ac at 825 Davis Ford Rd from Agricultural (A) to Rural Estate (RE) – applicant Mark Patrick
• Solar Panels: General discussion of solar‑panel applications for all districts (various applicants)

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners will meet on September 16, 2025. After routine items, the board will enter an executive session to discuss a potential land acquisition related to annexation. No other decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Executive session to discuss land acquisition (annexation)

The Board of Commissioners adopted the meeting agenda, entered an executive session to discuss potential litigation and land acquisition, then reconvened and adjourned. All motions passed unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Adopt agenda – motion passed unanimously
• Enter executive session for litigation and land acquisition discussion – motion passed unanimously
• End executive session and reconvene regular meeting – motion passed unanimously
• Adjourn meeting – motion passed unanimously

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review a request to annex 41.55 acres at 1279 Cannon Drive for a data center. The meeting includes several zoning public hearings for a daycare, automotive dealership, and a C-store. The Board will also consider several construction and repair contracts.

• Annexation of 41.55 acres at 1279 Cannon Drive for a data center
• Mission Construction, LLC agreement for jail pod roof replacement: $81,400.00
• Budget amendment transfer for Harris Spring Church and pavilion repairs: $50,000.00
• C2i Change Order #2 for Cornish Creek Water Treatment Facility: $11,515.34
• Zoning requests for 3198 Salem Rd (auto dealership), 5242 Salem Rd (daycare), and 3396 Hwy 212 (C-store/restaurant)

The Newton County Board adopted its agenda and consent agenda, then approved several specific actions: an Alcovy Judicial Circuit intergovernmental agreement, a jail‑pod roof replacement contract for $81,400, a $50,000 budget transfer for Harris Spring Church repairs, a resolution objecting to the City of Social Circle annexation, a change order for the Cornish Creek water‑treatment project, and a conditional use permit for an automotive dealership. All motions passed with a 4‑0 vote except the annexation resolution, which passed 3‑1.

• Adopted agenda (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda items (4-0)
• Approved Alcovy Judicial Circuit Intergovernmental Agreement (4-0)
• Approved Mission Construction LLC jail‑pod roof contract $81,400 (4-0)
• Approved Gaither’s Budget amendment transfer $50,000 for Harris Spring Church (4-0)
• Approved Resolution R-091625 objecting to City of Social Circle annexation (3-1)
• Approved Change Order #2 for Cornish Creek Water Treatment Facility $11,515.34 (4-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit CUP25-000008 for automotive dealership (4-0)

Solid Waste Authority

The board will adopt the agenda, approve minutes from the August 14‑25 meeting, and review several operational reports including landfill tonnage, financial status for June, remaining capacity, and equipment updates. It will also consider two equipment purchases: an outbound scale and waste excavation equipment. The meeting includes citizen comment periods and may enter an executive session if needed.

• Approval of minutes from SWMA meeting Aug 14‑25
• August landfill tonnage reports
• Financial status for solid waste for June FY 2025 (preliminary year‑end)
• Purchase of outbound scale
• Purchase of waste excavation equipment

The board adopted the agenda and voted to table approval of the August 14 minutes until the next meeting. A motion to purchase a new leachate sampler and telemetry system was approved unanimously. The Authority agreed to draft changes to the Intergovernmental Agreement for county administrative fees and will present that at the next meeting. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Adopt agenda (unanimous)
• Table approval of August 14 minutes to next meeting (unanimous)
• Approve purchase of leachate monitoring sampler and telemetry equipment (unanimous)
• Agree to draft IGA amendments for county administrative fees (no vote recorded)
• Adjourn meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board adopted its agenda and approved several contracts, including a $1,595,821 property‑casualty insurance renewal (4‑1). It also approved participation in the Purdue Direct National Opioid Settlement (5‑0), an electric service agreement for the senior enrichment center (5‑0), and a FY 2026 budget transfer for two new county positions (4‑1). Additional approvals included a water‑resources maintenance contract and multiple zoning amendments.

• Adopted agenda (5‑0)
• Approved 2025‑2026 Property & Casualty Insurance renewal $1,595,821 (4‑1)
• Approved participation in Purdue opioid settlement (5‑0)
• Approved Electric Service Agreement for Senior Enrichment Center (5‑0)
• Approved FY 2026 budget transfer for new positions (4‑1)
• Approved Pattons PM Service Agreement $16,133.25 (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning REZ25‑000003 to CG with conditions (5‑0)
• Approved amendment FLU25‑000005 to M‑2 industrial zoning (5‑0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings regarding millage rates and consider several infrastructure and facility projects. The meeting includes votes on insurance renewals, opioid settlement entry, and alcohol beverage licenses.

• Purchase of pipe package from Cherokee Culvert Company, Inc. for $94,328.01
• Pavement evaluation program contract with IMS for $97,475.00
• Final change order for Kirkland Road @ Jack Neely Road roundabout for $48,750.00
• Budget supplement of $137,312.00 for Historic Jail Renovation
• Lake Varner Lakeshore Management Plan Update agreement with Garver, LLC for $77,198.00

The Newton County Board of Commissioners approved the Sandoz Opioid Settlement Agreement and a series of contracts for public works, fire services, water management, and a youth facility. All motions passed unanimously except two, which were approved by a 4‑1 vote. The meeting concluded with an unanimous adjournment.

• Approved agenda amendment to remove item 15 (4-0)
• Approved consent agenda covering prior minutes and vehicle surplus (5-0)
• Approved Sandoz Opioid Settlement Agreement (5-0)
• Approved Rural Fire Defense Cooperative Lease and MOU with Georgia Forestry Commission (5-0)
• Approved Cherokee Culvert Company pipe package purchase for $94,328.01 (5-0)
• Approved IMS Infrastructure Management Services contract for $97,475.00 (5-0)
• Approved Westside Youth Facility scope of work and Ascension Program Management services (4-1, Commissioner Henderson opposed)
• Approved Sunbelt Builders Amendment #2 contract for Newton County Historic Jail renovations (4-1, Commissioner Long opposed)

Solid Waste Authority

The Newton County Solid Waste Management Authority will meet to approve contracts for engineering services and a change order, as well as purchase a pickup truck and hydroseeder. The agenda also includes a discussion on a landfill permit and approval of July tonnage reports.

• Approval of Atlantic Coast Consulting, Inc. Contract for Professional Engineering Services
• Approval of Harbin Engineering Task Order
• Approval of Peed Brothers Change Order
• Approval of Purchase of F150 Pickup Truck
• Approval of Purchase of Hydroseeder

The Solid Waste Management Authority unanimously approved a five‑year professional engineering services contract with Atlantic Coast Consulting, Inc. It also approved a $75,000 task order for Harbin Engineering, a change order extending Peed Brothers’ contract, and purchases of a used excavator (up to $60,000), a 2017 F‑150 pickup truck for $15,200, and a hydroseeder for $20,137. All motions were adopted with unanimous votes.

• Approved 5‑year contract with Atlantic Coast Consulting, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved $75,000 Harbin Engineering task order (unanimous)
• Approved Peed Brothers change order extending contract to Feb 28 2026 (unanimous)
• Authorized negotiation to purchase used excavator, not to exceed $60,000 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of 2017 F‑150 pickup truck for $15,200 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of hydroseeder for $20,137 (unanimous)

Solid Waste Authority

The Newton County Solid Waste Management Authority will approve contracts for engineering services and a task order, as well as purchase a pickup truck and hydroseeder. The board will also discuss a landfill permit and review July tonnage reports.

• Approval of Atlantic Coast Consulting, Inc. Contract for Professional Engineering Services
• Approval of Harbin Engineering Task Order
• Approval of Peed Brothers Change Order
• Approval of Purchase of F150 Pickup Truck
• Approval of Purchase of Hydroseeder

Board of Commissioners

The board approved the 2025 millage rate for County Maintenance & Operations (8.56) and the Fire District (0.892) with a 4‑1 vote. They ratified the FY 2026 Juvenile Court CHINS Grants and Juvenile Prevention and Intervention Grants programs. Several appointments were confirmed, including reappointments to the Solid Waste Management Authority, a new Planning Commission chair, and Juanita Thompson to the Board of Family & Children Services. Additional unanimous approvals covered a fire‑safety education MOU, the Life Vest Learner Program funded by a Walmart grant, and a Pearson VUE authorized testing center agreement.

• Adopted 2025 millage rate (County Maintenance & Operations 8.56, Fire District 0.892) – vote 4-1
• Ratified FY 2026 Juvenile Court CHINS and Juvenile Prevention & Intervention Grants programs – approved (consent agenda)
• Reappointed Solid Waste Management Authority members and appointed Planning Commission chair – approved (consent agenda)
• Appointed Juanita Thompson to DFACS board – vote 5-0
• Approved Fire Safety Education MOU with Newton County School System – vote 5-0
• Approved Fire Services Life Vest Learner Program (Walmart grant) – vote 5-0
• Approved Pearson VUE Authorized Center Agreement – vote 5-0

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners conducted a public hearing on the proposed 2025 millage rate. Commissioners Stan Edwards, Demond Mason, Andre Cooper, J.C. Henderson, and LeAnne Long were present. No vote or formal decision was recorded; the hearing was adjourned.

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners conducted two public hearings—one at 11:00 a.m. and another at 6:00 p.m.—to gather citizen input on the proposed 2025 millage rate. No votes, approvals, or denials were recorded; the meeting concluded with adjournment after board comments.

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners conducted two public hearings on the proposed 2025 millage rate, one at 11:00 a.m. and another at 6:00 p.m. Citizens offered comments during both sessions. The meeting was adjourned without any vote, approval, denial, or other substantive decision.

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted Resolution R071525, formally objecting to the City of Social Circle’s annexation request for 45.95 acres at 370 Highway 11. The Board also unanimously approved a deannexation request for 1.06 acres on Edgefield Lane, pending city approval, and approved the E‑911 Debt Intergovernmental Agreement with the City of Covington. All consent‑agenda items, including a $6,000 arson‑control grant and a $222,248 Adult Drug Court contract, were also approved unanimously.

• Adopted agenda (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda items (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution R071525 objecting to Social Circle annexation (unanimous)
• Approved deannexation of 1.06 acres at 91 & 100 Edgefield Lane (unanimous, contingent on city approval)
• Approved E‑911 Debt Intergovernmental Agreement with City of Covington (unanimous)
• Approved $6,000 Georgia Arson Control Grant for Fire Services (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 Adult Drug Court contract with View Point Health, $222,248 total cost (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board of Commissioners adopted the meeting agenda, entered an executive session to discuss potential litigation and land acquisition, then ended the session, reconvened the regular session, and adjourned. All motions passed unanimously.

• Adopted agenda (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss potential litigation and land acquisition (unanimous)
• Ended executive session (unanimous)
• Reconvened regular session (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Solid Waste Authority

The board approved the Evaluation Committee’s recommendation to award the professional engineering services contract (RFP 25-32) to Atlantic Coast Consulting. Members also approved the purchase of a 2018 Ford F‑150 pickup truck for $12,300 and supported buying a $2,800 pressure washer. The Authority agreed to rent a Jerome Analyzer for a week to monitor landfill odors.

• Award professional engineering services contract to Atlantic Coast Consulting – all voted in favor
• Approve purchase of 2018 Ford F‑150 pickup truck ($12,300) – all voted in favor
• Support purchase of pressure washer ($2,800) – members expressed support
• Agree to rent Jerome Analyzer for one week to monitor odors – members agreed

Board of Commissioners

The Board approved the consent agenda items, including a $100,000 sheriff grant, a $5,195.80 fire service grant, a family services appointment, and FY2026 juvenile court contracts totaling $254,640, with a 5‑0 vote. The Board also approved acquiring fire equipment and a specialty apparatus from the Dekalb County Fire Department at no cost, vote 5‑0. Several zoning and conditional‑use petitions were approved, including a future land‑use amendment for 6610 Hwy 20 (5‑0), a future land‑use amendment for Richards Chapel Road (4‑1), a special‑events facility permit at 910 Duncan Rd (4‑1), and a large‑scale solar project on Magnet Road (5‑0).

• Approved consent agenda items (sheriff grant, fire service grant, appointment, juvenile court contracts) – Vote 5-0
• Approved acquisition of fire equipment and specialty apparatus from Dekalb County Fire Department – Vote 5-0
• Approved Zoning Case FLU25-000001 (Future Land Use amendment for 6610 Hwy 20) – Vote 5-0
• Approved Zoning Case FLU25-000003 (Future Land Use amendment for Richards Chapel Road) – Vote 4-1 (Commissioner Long opposed)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit CUP25-000004 (Special Events Facility at 910 Duncan Rd) – Vote 4-1 (Commissioner Long opposed)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit CUP25-000003 (40‑MW solar array on Magnet Road) – Vote 5-0

Board of Commissioners

The board approved the FY2026 county budget totaling $143,624,854, with a vote of 4‑for, 0‑against and 1 abstention. They also unanimously approved the FY2026 appropriations resolution and the FY26 employee holiday schedule. Additional unanimous approvals included a change order for lawn‑care services, funding for a senior center pickleball court, and a pre‑construction contract with Sunbelt Builders.

• Adopt FY2026 Budget ($143,624,854) (4‑for, 0‑against, 1 abstain)
• Approve FY2026 appropriations to entities (5‑for, 0‑against)
• Approve FY26 Employee Holiday Schedule (4‑for, 0‑against)
• Approve Change Order #4 for Five Fields Lawn Care ($31,166.16) (5‑for, 0‑against)
• Approve acceptance of donation for senior center pickleball court ($32,473) (5‑for, 0‑against)
• Approve CMAR contract with Sunbelt Builders ($3,000) (5‑for, 0‑against)

Solid Waste Authority

The board amended the agenda to add items on permit modification and contract extension, with all members voting in favor. The minutes from the May 15 meeting were approved unanimously. The board voted to extend the professional engineering services contract with Harbin Engineering on a month‑to‑month basis until August 31, 2025, pending legal review. No citizen comments were received and no executive session was held.

• Amended agenda to add Item #6B (Modification of Permit Application) – all voted in favor
• Amended agenda to add Item #6C (Discussion of Extension of Contract with Engineering Consultants) – all voted in favor
• Approved minutes from SWMA meeting on 5‑15‑25 – all voted in favor
• Approved month‑to‑month extension of Harbin Engineering contract, not past Aug 31 2025, subject to legal review – all voted in favor

Board of Commissioners

The board heard a presentation of the proposed FY 2026 budget. No actions, approvals, or votes were taken on the budget. The budget adoption is scheduled for June 17, 2025.

Board of Commissioners

The board adopted its agenda unanimously and approved several items including closure pay for fire fighters, a consent agenda covering equipment, grants and appointments, and funding for a water‑resources trainee position. It rejected the sheriff’s request for $53,116 for a youth academy. Major capital projects were authorized: a $951,070.50 road resurfacing contract, a $70,000 Cricket Frog Trail improvement agreement, and a zoning overlay change for 5242 Salem Road. All votes were recorded.

• Adopted agenda (5-0)
• Approved closure pay for fire fighters (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda (equipment, veterans court grant, Walmart grants, appointments) (5-0)
• Rejected sheriff’s academy funding request $53,116 (2-3)
• Approved water resources operator trainee position (5-0)
• Approved Cricket Frog Trail intergovernmental agreement ($70,000) (5-0)
• Approved Triple R Paving road resurfacing project $951,070.50 (5-0)
• Approved zoning overlay tier change OTC25-0001 (4-1)

Board of Commissioners

The board heard a presentation of the FY2026 proposed budget. A motion was made to enter executive session to discuss litigation and personnel matters. Another motion was made to reconvene the regular session and adjourn. The minutes do not record vote outcomes for either motion.

• Motion to enter executive session on litigation and personnel – outcome not recorded
• Motion to reconvene regular session and adjourn – outcome not recorded

Board of Commissioners

The Board unanimously approved a $6,502,090 budget amendment for the 2026 County Road Resurfacing Project. It also approved the ClearGov digital‑software renewal, several grant applications, a mutual aid agreement with Rockdale County, and a transmittal resolution to the Department of Community Affairs. All actions were carried out with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda amendment to consider ClearGov renewal (5/0)
• Approved ClearGov renewal contract (5/0)
• Approved Sheriff's Office request to apply for QuikTrip grant (5/0)
• Approved Fire Services request to apply for Auto Club Foundation grant (5/0)
• Approved Mutual & Automatic Aid Agreement with Rockdale County (5/0)
• Approved 2026 County Road Resurfacing Project, $6,502,090 budget amendment (5/0)
• Approved Resolution R05202025 to send FY24 Capital Improvement report to DCA (5/0)

Solid Waste Authority

The Authority adopted an amended agenda, changed regular meeting dates to the second Thursday of each month, and approved the minutes from the April 17 meeting. It approved the FY 2026 budget, which includes a $3 per‑ton tipping fee increase to $62/ton, higher tire fees, and a $185 hang‑tag fee. The board also approved repair costs for the D5 dozer undercarriage and decided members will purchase their own hang tags.

• Approved agenda amendment to add Item #3B (unanimous)
• Changed regular meeting day from third to second Thursday each month (unanimous)
• Approved April 17 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved FY 2026 budget with proposed fee increases (unanimous)
• Decided Authority members will pay for their own hang tags (unanimous)
• Approved D5 dozer undercarriage repair costs per Estimate No. 152119-1 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Newton County Board adopted the meeting agenda and consent agenda unanimously. It approved several contracts and grant requests, including a fire services grant, a synthetic turf contract, a professional services agreement, a water‑plan seed grant, and the FY26 CIGNA insurance plan. The board also appointed members to the Public Facilities Authority and approved the authority’s revenue bond issuance for the City of Covington.

• Adopted agenda (May 6, 2025) – unanimous (3‑0)
• Approved consent agenda – unanimous (5‑0)
• Approved $15,000 Fire Services safety grant – unanimous (5‑0)
• Approved $83,745.89 Flexground synthetic turf contract – unanimous (5‑0)
• Approved $656,068.95 Professional Services Agreement with Michael Baker International – unanimous (5‑0)
• Approved $75,000 Regional Water Plan Seed Grant – unanimous (5‑0)
• Approved FY26 CIGNA employee medical and dental insurance plan – unanimous (5‑0)
• Approved revenue bond issuance by the Public Facilities Authority – unanimous (5‑0)

Solid Waste Authority

The Authority adopted an amended agenda adding items on truck purchase and new members, and approved the February 20 minutes. Members voted to conduct exploratory drilling to assess additional waste discovered during excavation. The $175,000 truck purchase was ratified and the vehicle is now in use.

• Adopted agenda with items 9A (truck purchase) and 9B (new members) – all voted in favor
• Approved minutes from the 2‑20‑25 meeting – all voted in favor
• Voted to conduct exploratory drilling for additional waste – all voted in favor
• Ratified purchase of a $175,000 truck for landfill operations – all voted in favor

Board of Commissioners

The board adopted an agenda amendment removing items #12 and #14 (5-0). It approved the consent agenda, which included April 1 meeting minutes and the appointment of Matt Crowe to Planning Commission District One (5-0). The board also approved a salary adjustment for Superior Court law clerks, a $280,876.24 purchase of 25 breathing apparatus for fire services, a $6,000 annual contract with Reconnect Inc., and two change orders for Nova Engineering projects (each 5-0).

• Approved agenda amendment removing items #12 & #14 (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items including April 1 minutes and Planning Commission appointment (5-0)
• Approved salary adjustment for Newton County Superior Court law clerks (5-0)
• Approved purchase of 25 breathing apparatus for fire services for $280,876.24 (5-0)
• Approved Reconnect Inc. contract for services at $6,000 annually (5-0)
• Approved Nova Engineering change order #2 for Brown Bridge Road over Yellow River replacement (5-0)
• Approved Nova Engineering change order #2 for Access Rd @ I-20 improvements (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board met on April 8, 2025 at the historic courthouse in Covington. Commissioners opened with an invocation and the Pledge of Allegiance, then department heads presented their FY 2026 budget appropriations. The meeting included a recess and adjourned at 3:14 p.m. No votes or formal approvals were recorded.

Board of Commissioners

The board adopted its agenda and approved the consent agenda, which included a $1,000 Publix fire‑prevention grant, the appointment of the Solid Waste Authority chair, and a $277,847 contract to renovate inmate showers at the sheriff’s detention center. It also approved a memorandum of understanding with the local animal services and humane society at no cost. The board approved four zoning and conditional‑use requests—Rezoning REZ24‑000011, CUP24‑000013, Rezoning REZ24‑000013, and Rezoning REZ24‑000012—while denying the CUP24‑000014 farm‑wedding venue permit. All approvals passed with unanimous or near‑unanimous votes, and the denied permit was rejected 4‑1.

• Adopted agenda (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda items: March 18 minutes, $1,000 Publix grant, Solid Waste Authority chair appointment, $277,847 Benise‑Dowling inmate‑shower contract (5-0)
• Approved MOU with Newton County Animal Services and Humane Society (5-0)
• Approved Rezoning REZ24-000011 (R-2/CN to CG) (5-0)
• Approved Conditional Use Permit CUP24-000013 (5-0)
• Denied Conditional Use Permit CUP24-000014 for farm wedding venue (4-1; Long abstained)
• Approved Rezoning REZ24-000013 (CH) (5-0)
• Approved Rezoning REZ24-000012 (A-R to CG) (4-1; Edwards abstained)

Board of Commissioners

The Board adopted the meeting agenda and approved several procedural motions, including entering and ending an executive session, reconvening the special meeting, and adjourning. All motions passed unanimously with a 5-0 vote where recorded.

• Adopt agenda (passed 5-0)
• Enter executive session to discuss litigation (passed 5-0)
• End executive session (passed 5-0)
• Reconvene special called meeting (passed 5-0)
• Adjourn meeting (motion passed)