Oconee County public meetings in 2023

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to approve previous minutes and review Current Use Value (CUV) continuations for several properties. The board will also address a CUV breach and a homestead removal letter.

• CUV Continuations for Lake Oconee Farms, Sam & Katie Perry, Ashford Investment Properties, Ronald Phillips, and Joseph Teskey
• CUV Breach for Ronald Wykel & Danny Reeves ($18,989.79 paid 11/16/23)
• Homestead Removal Letter

The Board unanimously approved six Conservation Use Value (CUV) continuations and one CUV breach. The Board also approved mailing a homestead removal letter to one property. Personnel matters were discussed in executive session.

• Approved November 14, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved CUV Continuations for Lake Oconee Farms, Sam & Katie Perry, Ashford Investment Properties, Ronald Phillips, and Joseph Teskey (Unanimous)
• Approved CUV breach for Ronald Wykel & Danny Reeves (Unanimous)
• Approved homestead removal letter for B-02B-034E (Unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will meet to discuss fleet and facility maintenance. The body will review training schedules for December and January and evaluate the volunteer recruit list.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• December and January training review
• Volunteer recruit list review
• Monthly training hours list review
• Discussion on CO alarm calls

Station Chiefs reviewed the December training schedule and a draft for January 2024. The group reviewed work orders and the roster for upcoming Firefighter and Support Firefighter classes. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved November 14, 2023 minutes

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to consider two requests to rezone land from agricultural (AG) to residential (AR). The commission will also review the minutes from the November 13, 2023 meeting.

• Rezone #P23-0219: 4.013 acres at 1210 Burr Harris Road from AG to AR for residential use
• Rezone #P23-0228: 6.09 acres at 1251 Sikes Road from AG to AR for undeveloped land

The Planning Commission recommended approval for two properties to be rezoned from Agricultural (AG) to Agricultural Residential (AR). One recommendation included a staff condition regarding development design standards.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0219 for 1210 Burr Harris Road with one staff condition (7-0)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0228 for 1251 Sikes Road (6-1)
• Approved November 11 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review several zoning requests, including a rezoning for general business and a special use permit for self-storage. The body will also discuss ground lease agreements for two cell towers and an auditor report for FY 2023.

• Rezone #P23-0204 for 24.592 acres at 3380 Hog Mountain Road & 1078 Stillwater Way to B-2
• Special Use #P23-0203 for self-storage at 3380 Hog Mountain Road & 1078 Stillwater Way
• Ground lease agreements for 199' cell towers at 1030 Rankin Road and 3500 Hog Mountain Road
• Award of Eagle Tavern Renovation Bid
• Resolution to submit a joint claim for settlement proceeds in PFAS litigation

The Board approved a rezone and special use permit for a commercial subdivision and self-storage facility at Hog Mountain Road and Dooley Connector. Officials also authorized ground leases for two new cell towers and awarded a renovation contract for the historic Eagle Tavern.

• Approved Rezone #P23-0204 for 24.592 acres at 3380 Hog Mountain Road to B-2 zoning
• Approved Special Use #P23-0203 for self-storage facility at Hog Mountain Road (3-2)
• Approved Special Use #P23-0231 for 199-foot tower on Cedar Road
• Approved Variance #P23-0201 for 3:12 roof pitch at 1101 Adams Road
• Approved ground lease agreements with Prime Tower Development for two towers at $17,400 annually each
• Awarded Eagle Tavern renovation bid to Bayne Development Group for $91,373, not to exceed $114,000
• Approved new and 2024 renewal alcohol license for Family Dollar
• Approved text amendments to Articles 3, 6, 7, and 10 of the Unified Development Code

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several land-use matters, including cell tower agreements and the annexation of the Thomas Property. The meeting also includes a financial update and a resolution regarding PFAS litigation settlement proceeds.

• Ground lease agreements for 199' cell towers at 1030 Rankin Road and 3500 Hog Mountain Road
• Proposed abandonment of Hillsboro Road
• Annexation of the Thomas Property to the City of Watkinsville
• Resolution authorizing UOBWA to submit a joint claim for PFAS litigation settlement proceeds
• 2024 Alcohol License Renewal Applications

The Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda and reviewed several proposals, including cell tower leases and a park donation. Most substantive items were placed on the December 5 consent agenda by consensus. No actions were taken during the executive session.

• Approved November 28, 2023 Agenda (4-0)
• Placed Heritage Park naming rights agreement on Dec 5 consent agenda
• Placed PFAS litigation settlement resolution on Dec 5 consent agenda
• Placed abandonment of Hillsboro Road to North High Shoals on Dec 5 consent agenda
• Placed Thomas Property annexation to Watkinsville on Dec 5 consent agenda
• Placed 2024 Alcohol License Renewals on Dec 5 consent agenda
• Placed 2024 meeting schedule on Dec 5 consent agenda
• Placed 2024-2027 Vice-Chairman schedule on Dec 5 consent agenda

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority will meet to discuss and consider budget amendments for the end of fiscal year 2023. The body will also review minutes from the October 17, 2023, meeting.

• FY23 Year End Budget Amendments

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority unanimously approved a year-end budget amendment to balance the FY23 budget. The amendment allocates $926,895 for debt service interest related to Costco bonds. The meeting also included procedural approvals of the agenda and previous minutes.

• Approved FY23 budget amendment for $926,895 in Costco bond interest (unanimous)
• Approved agenda
• Approved October 17, 2023 minutes

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors will meet to approve previous minutes and review Conservation Use Value (CUV) continuations and a breach. The agenda also includes a settlement conference and an executive session.

• CUV Continuations for James Huff, James Smith & Erin Wells, William Watson, and Timothy & Robin Collette
• CUV Breach for Luis & Maria Candelario ($15,277.16 paid 11/6/23)
• Settlement Conference (B-02P-005B)

The Board approved a property value settlement for parcel B-02P-005B and updated schedules for ABOS and mobile home base costs. The Board also approved several Conservation Use Value (CUV) actions and a non-disclosure application.

• Approved property value of $873,048 for parcel B-02P-005B (Unanimous)
• Approved 50% base cost increase for mobile home schedule (Unanimous)
• Approved ABOS schedule released by the state (Unanimous)
• Approved CUV breach for A-07-008FB (Unanimous)
• Approved CUV Continuations for B-03-056A, D-02-004AA, C-05-051AS, B-10-015F, and A-08-010N (Unanimous)
• Approved non-disclosure application (Unanimous)
• Approved October 10, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections will meet to certify the results of the November 7, 2023, City of Watkinsville election. The board will also review the Director's report regarding advance voting and election day operations.

• Certification of November 7, 2023 City of Watkinsville Election
• Director's report on Advance Voting and Election Day
• Approval of October 03, 2023 minutes

The Board of Elections unanimously approved the minutes from October 3, 2023, and certified the results of the November 7, 2023 General Election. The board also received reports on voting operations for the City of Watkinsville General election.

• Approved October 3, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Certified November 7, 2023 General Election results (unanimous)

Recreation Advisory Committee

The committee will meet to review previous minutes and introduce new members. The agenda also includes updates regarding the Oconee Parks Foundation and various parks.

• New RAC Member Introductions
• Oconee Parks Foundation update
• Park updates

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the September 19 meeting. Members received updates on Oconee Parks Foundation activities and department awards. No other substantive policy or funding decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 19 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The board will review director and treasury updates.

The Oconee County Tourism and Visitors Bureau board approved the previous meeting's minutes and the current financial update without opposition. Director Sarah Cumuze reported visitor statistics and marketing results, noting a $30,000 advertising contract started in November. The board discussed future staffing needs and website updates but took no formal action on these items.

• Approved September meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial update (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The station chiefs will meet to review fleet and facility work orders, pump testing status, and training records. The agenda also includes planning for the December 3rd Christmas Parade.

• Truck and station maintenance review
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• December 3rd Christmas Parade lineup
• Personnel matters discussion (Executive Session)

The Station Chiefs approved the minutes from the October 16, 2023 meeting. The group reviewed November training schedules, October training hours, and the status of Medical Responder recruits. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved October 16, 2023 minutes

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to consider several rezoning and special use applications. The body will also review proposed text amendments to the Unified Development Code.

• Rezone #P23-0204: 24.592 acres at 3380 Hog Mountain Road & 1078 Stillwater Way from AG & R-2 MPD to B-2
• Special Use #P23-0203: Self storage on 5.795 acres at 3380 Hog Mountain Road & 1078 Stillwater Way
• Rezone #P23-0243: Change in conditions for 36.39 acres at Gateway East Parkway
• Special Use #P23-0231: Change in conditions for 3.04 acres at Cedar Road
• Text amendments to Unified Development Code Articles 3, 6, 7, and 10

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a rezone and special use permit for self-storage and general business at Hog Mountain Road and Stillwater Way. The commission also recommended approval for a communication tower and changes to a prior rezone at Gateway East Parkway. Additionally, the commission approved text amendments to the Unified Development Code.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0204 for general business with 9 conditions (5-3)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P23-0203 for self-storage with 7 conditions (5-3)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0242 for Gateway East Parkway (7-1)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P23-0231 for a communication tower with 2 conditions (9-0)
• Approved text amendments to Unified Development Code Articles 3, 6, 7, and 10 (9-0)
• Approved October 16 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission is meeting to review budget reports and receive updates from the Executive Director. The agenda consists of standard procedural items and committee reports.

• Budget report
• Executive Director report
• Committee breakout reports

Board of Health

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. The board will review minutes from the last meeting and hear district updates.

• Review of minutes from last meeting
• District updates

The Board approved the August 9, 2023 minutes. Staff reported on new state body art regulations effective October 6, 2023, noting Oconee County has no permitted facilities and must adopt state rules by October 2024. Updates included flu and vaccine statistics, mobile clinic operations, and a PrEP program expansion.

• Approved August 9, 2023 minutes (voice vote)
• No substantive decisions on new regulations or budget items

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold hearings on four zoning and variance requests. The body will also discuss FY23 year-end budget amendments and review several contracts and licenses.

• Rezone #P23-0164 for 1071 Chestnut Glen
• Rezone #P23-0181 for 1160 Maxey Road
• Variance #P23-0187 for parking at Hog Mountain Road
• Ratification of Mathias Corporation for Courthouse Elevator Project
• New alcohol license for Costa Alegre Seafood and Grille, LLC

The Board of Commissioners approved three rezoning requests and one parking variance. They also ratified a general contractor for the courthouse elevator project and approved year-end budget amendments for FY23.

• Approved Rezone #P23-0164 for 1071 Chestnut Glen with one condition
• Approved Rezone #P23-0181 for 1160 Maxey Road (AG to AR) with three conditions
• Approved Rezone #P23-0186 for Hog Mountain Road with six conditions
• Approved Variance #P23-0187 for additional parking at Hog Mountain Road with two conditions
• Ratified Mathias Corporation as General Contractor for Courthouse Elevator Project ($29,773)
• Approved FY23 Year End Budget Amendments
• Approved alcohol license for Costa Alegre Seafood and Grille, LLC
• Appointed Jason Slider as Oconee County Magistrate Court prosecutor

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several county-wide infrastructure projects and a new business license. The session includes reviews of road lighting and water treatment design services.

• Intergovernmental Agreement with GDOT regarding the lighting of roads
• Bear Creek Water Treatment Plan Expansion Design Services
• New alcohol license for Costa Alegre Seafood and Grille, LLC
• Change Order for Fire Engine 701

The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution and agreements with GDOT to install lighting at four intersections along SR 316. Several other items, including a fire engine change order and water plant design services, were moved to the November 7 Consent Agenda.

• Approved GDOT lighting agreements and resolution for SR 316 at Dials Mill Road/Dials Mill Extension, Jimmy Daniel Road, Virgil Langford Road, and Oconee Connector (4-0)
• Moved Fire Engine 701 change order for $29,820.04 to November 7 Consent Agenda
• Moved Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant expansion design expenditure of $547,220.23 to November 7 Consent Agenda
• Moved new alcohol license for Costa Alegre Seafood and Grille, LLC to November 7 Consent Agenda

Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board

The Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board and Walton County Water & Sewerage Authority are meeting to review project financing and facility designs. The body will consider a recommendation to revise water treatment design capacity due to budget concerns and review the Apalachee River Intake status.

• Proposal to revise water treatment facility design capacity to 12 MGD
• Review of 30% cost projections from Jacobs Engineering and Archer-Western
• Status of Apalachee River Intake land acquisition and GEFA Loan extension request
• Proposal from Nelson Environmental for 2024 HLC Annual Downstream Geomorphology and Habitat Survey

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority will meet to review and submit amendment changes for the Gateway Development Guidelines. The body will also consider the adoption of the agenda and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Review and submission of amendment changes for Gateway Development Guidelines

The Authority approved TPA plans subject to review by the County Planning Director. The board also agreed to consider future construction proposals from IMI and TPA regarding siding materials for rear buildings.

• Approved TPA Plans contingent on review by the County Planning Director
• Agreed by consensus to consider future construction proposals from IMI and TPA
• Approved August 23, 2023 meeting minutes
• Approved meeting agenda

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will meet to discuss fleet and facility maintenance. The body will review training hours, volunteer recruits, and the status of FF2 and EMR classes. Updates regarding equipment and ISO evaluation are also on the agenda.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Update on SCBA cylinders expiration date
• Update on new Air Truck and Engine 701
• Update on ISO Evaluation

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs approved membership appeals for two individuals living in adjoining counties. They also reviewed training schedules, equipment maintenance, and ISO survey results, noting that 172 SCBA cylinders will expire in April 2024. No new contracts or budget allocations were approved during this meeting.

• Approved September 11, 2023 minutes
• Approved membership appeal for Cody Marchbanks (unanimous vote)
• Approved membership appeal for Sean O’Connell (unanimous vote)
• Agreed to maintain 'off road' Tanker trucks for future purchases
• Noted 172 SCBA cylinders expire in April 2024; bid planned for later in year
• Confirmed new 105 Air & Light truck is in service
• Set deadline of December 15, 2023 for volunteers to complete 24 training hours

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss four rezoning cases and a change in conditions for existing cases. The body will also review the minutes from the September 18, 2023 meeting.

• Rezone #P23-0164: Change in Conditions for 1071 Chestnut Glen (3.04 acres)
• Rezone #P23-0181: Rezone from AG to AR for 1160 Maxey Road (10.37 acres)
• BISHOP Rezone #P23-0185: Rezone from B-1 to B-1 for 4851 and 4853 Macon Hwy (2.492 acres)
• Rezone #P23-0186: Change in Conditions for Hog Mountain Road (2.0603 acres)

The Oconee County Planning Commission approved the September 18 meeting minutes and recommended approval for four separate rezoning and condition change requests, which now proceed to the Board of Commissioners. Recommendations included changes of conditions for properties at 1071 Chestnut Glen and Hog Mountain Road, a rezoning from AG to AR for 10.37 acres at 1160 Maxey Road, and a B-1 rezone for 2.492 acres at 4851 and 4853 Macon Highway.

• Approved September 18 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0164 with 1 staff condition (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0181 with 3 staff conditions (5-1)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0185 with 3 staff conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0186 with 6 staff conditions (unanimous)

Animal Services Meeting

The Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to approve previous minutes and receive updates from the Manager of Animal Services. The agenda includes time for public comments and new business.

• Approval of August 9, 2023 minutes
• Manager of Animal Services updates from Crystal Berisko

The Oconee Animal Services Advisory Board approved previous meeting minutes with minor corrections. No substantive policy decisions or budget approvals were made. The board discussed upcoming events, potential grant applications, and operational updates, and elected new officers.

• Approved previous meeting minutes with minor corrections
• Elected Theresa as Chair, Kelsey as Vice Chair, and Shannon Martin as Secretary
• Scheduled next meeting for February 7, 2024
• Discussed applying for $75K PetSmart Capacity Building Grant
• Discussed epoxy floor and soundproofing project ($17-$35K range)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to approve previous minutes and handle tax-related administrative items. The body will discuss appeal updates and specific property tax exemptions.

• Homestead approval B-08-025BA S5 HS
• Approval of 30-day notices and BOE appeals
• CUV Continuations

The Board approved several tax-related applications, including two CUV continuations and a homestead application for a disabled veteran. The Board also approved sending eight real property appeals to the Board of Equalization. A proposal to change the vehicle appeal policy was rejected.

• Approved September 12, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved CUV Continuations for Jack & Diane Lewis and Joel & Marcelle Fleming (Unanimous)
• Approved homestead for parcel B-B-08-025BA (Unanimous)
• Approved non-disclosure application (Unanimous)
• Approved 8 real property appeals to go to Board of Equalization (Unanimous)
• Denied changes to vehicle appeal policy; policy remains as is (Unanimous)

Library Advisory Board

The Oconee County Library Board of Trustees will meet to review reports from branch and regional services. The board will discuss updates regarding the new library and a request for reconsideration of materials.

• Request for reconsideration of material
• Art for the new Wire Park location
• Dedication plaques from current Oconee Library
• New library update

The board approved the closure date for the Watkinsville Branch to facilitate the transition to the new Wire Park location. The board also ruled on the classification of five books following resident requests for reconsideration.

• Approved closing Watkinsville Branch on November 24 (unanimous)
• Reclassified 'Beyond Magenta' from young adult to adult section
• Designated 'If You're a Kid Like Gavin' as juvenile nonfiction (unanimous)
• Reclassified 'Welcome to Consent' from juvenile to young adult section
• Reclassified 'Welcome to St. Hell' from young adult to adult section (unanimous)
• Retained 'The ABC’s of LGBTQ+' in young adult classification (unanimous)
• Approved July 10, 2023 meeting minutes

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is meeting to receive reports on logic and accuracy testing and Colham Ferry Precinct upgrades. The body will also discuss voter registration totals and upcoming advance voting schedules.

• Update on Colham Ferry Precinct upgrades
• SOS investigation of independent candidate petitions
• Advance Voting period from 10/16/2023 through 11/3/2023
• SAFE assessment on 10/04/2023
• Advance Voting Training on 10/11/2023

The Board of Elections unanimously approved the September 5, 2023, meeting minutes after minor corrections. No new business or unfinished business items were presented. The Director provided updates on voting machine testing, precinct accessibility, voter registration totals, and upcoming election logistics.

• Approved September 5, 2023, minutes unanimously (pending corrections)
• Confirmed Colham Ferry Precinct is ADA compliant; recommended adding caution signs
• Recommended moving next board meeting to 11/14/2023 to certify Watkinsville municipal election
• Adjourned meeting unanimously at 5:32 p.m.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold hearings on nine zoning matters, including several requests for mini-storage uses. The body will also consider an alcohol license application and several contract renewals.

• Rezone #P23-0153, #P23-0170, Special Use #P23-0154, and Variance #P23-0159 for 1911 Hog Mountain Road
• Special Use #P23-0161 for a mini storage facility at 1051 Baker Drive
• Alcohol license application for B&T Food Fresh
• Courthouse Elevator Modernization Proposal
• FY24 Northeast Georgia Regional Commission Aging and Transportation Services contracts

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners approved multiple rezone modifications, special uses, and variances for residential and commercial properties, including projects on Talus Street, Hog Mountain Road, and Moreland Heights Road. The board also proclaimed National 4-H Week, approved a new alcohol license for B&T's Food Fresh contingent on proof of ownership, and passed the consent agenda containing elevator modernization, regional commission contracts, and road resurfacing.

• Approved October 3, 2023 Agenda (4-0)
• Approved previous meeting minutes from Sept 12, Sept 20, and Sept 26, 2023 (4-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P23-0160 for 1040 Garland LLC at 1041 and 1061 Talus Street with six conditions (4-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P23-0153 for UAL Holdings, LLC at 1911 Hog Mountain Road to B-1 with five conditions (4-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P23-0170 for UAL Holdings, LLC at Hog Mountain Road to B-2 with five conditions (4-0)
• Approved Special Use No. P23-0154 for UAL Holdings, LLC for self-storage with seven conditions (4-0)
• Approved Variance No. P23-0159 for UAL Holdings, LLC to reduce rear buffer to 25 feet with two conditions (4-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P23-0157 for Rhino Mini Storage, LLC at 1052 Moreland Heights Road with six conditions (4-0)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several county-wide infrastructure and service matters. The agenda includes reviews of regional commission contracts and road resurfacing applications.

• Courthouse Elevator Modernization Proposal
• FY24 Northeast Georgia Regional Commission Aging Services Contract Renewal
• FY24 Northeast Georgia Regional Commission Transportation Services Contract
• FY24 Resurfacing and LMIG Application

The Board of Commissioners discussed several contract renewals and infrastructure projects, moving them to the October 3 Consent Agenda. No substantive votes were taken on these items during this meeting.

• Approved September 26, 2023 Agenda (3-0)
• Moved courthouse elevator modernization proposal to Oct 3 Consent Agenda
• Moved FY24 Aging Services Contract renewal to Oct 3 Consent Agenda
• Moved FY24 Transportation Services Contract renewal to Oct 3 Consent Agenda
• Moved FY24 Resurfacing and LMIG Application to Oct 3 Consent Agenda

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss park updates. The agenda includes a presentation regarding Tall Socks Tennis by Taylor Dodd.

• Tall Socks Tennis presentation by Taylor Dodd
• Park updates

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the July 18 meeting. Members received updates on new tennis programming and upcoming park events. No other substantive policy or funding decisions were made.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved July 18 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The agenda consists of procedural boilerplate. The board will receive updates from the Director and Treasury.

The board received a director's report on visitor numbers, website traffic, and merchandise sales. Financial updates indicated a bank account balance of over $111,000. No formal votes on policy or spending were recorded.

• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to discuss several rezoning requests and special use permits. The agenda includes requests for commercial zoning and mini-storage facilities at various locations.

• Rezone #P23-0153: 2.71 acres at 1911 Hog Mountain Road from AG to B-2
• Rezone #P23-0170: 1.70 acres at 1911 Hog Mountain Road from AG to B-2
• Special Use #P23-0154: Self storage use for 1.70 acres at 1911 Hog Mountain Road
• Rezone #P23-0157: Change in Conditions of Approval for 8.37 acres at 1052 Moreland Heights Road
• Special Use #P23-0161: Mini storage facility for 1.47 acres at 1051 Baker Drive

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval for five land development applications, including four rezonings and two special use permits. Staff recommendations were accepted for all items, each subject to specific conditions. One application faced opposition from neighbors regarding privacy and lighting, but the commission still approved it unanimously.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0153 (UAL Holdings, LLC) with 5 conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0170 (UAL Holdings, LLC) with 5 conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P23-0154 (UAL Holdings, LLC) with 7 conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0157 (Rhino Mini-Storage, LLC) with 6 conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0160 (O.S. Properties, Inc.) with 5 conditions (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P23-0161 (Johnny L. Baker, Jr.) with 4 conditions (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review several Current Use Valuation (CUV) continuations and one homestead approval. The board will also discuss non-disclosure and approve 30-day notices and Board of Equalization appeals.

• CUV Continuations for Rebecca Baxter, Lemuel Verner, Jimmy Dickens, Kelly Price, Linda Fair, Sue Stephens, and Jason Power
• Homestead approval for B-04H-007A S5 HS
• Approval of 30-day notices and BOE appeals

The Board approved eight CUV continuations and a homestead application for parcel B-04H-007A. It also authorized 22 real property appeals to proceed to the Board of Equalization and issued 30 real property 30-day notices.

• Approved August 8, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 8 CUV Continuations (unanimous)
• Approved homestead for parcel B-04H-007A (unanimous)
• Approved non-disclosure application (unanimous)
• Approved 22 real property appeals to go to Board of Equalization
• Approved 30 real property 30-day notices

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review several land use changes and variance requests. The meeting includes discussions on budget amendments for Welcome Center improvements and appointments to county boards.

• Rezone #P23-0138: 2.05 acres at 2000 Atlanta Hwy from B-1 to B-2
• Rezone #P23-0139: 29.44 acres at 1291 Aiken Rd & University Pkwy
• Variance #P23-0140: Street standard hardship for 121.75 acres on Mcree's Gin Road
• Budget amendment to use Hotel Sales Tax Capital Funds for Welcome Center improvements
• Agreement for Court Collection Services between i3 Verticals and Oconee County Probate Court

The Board of Commissioners approved two rezoning requests and two hardship variances. They also authorized a budget amendment to use hotel sales tax funds for Welcome Center improvements and filled several board appointments.

• Approved Rezone No. P23-0138 for 2000 Atlanta Highway from B-1 to B-2 with five conditions (3-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P23-0139 for Aiken Road from R-1/AG to IND/OBP with five conditions (3-0)
• Approved Variance No. P23-0140 for McRee’s Gin Road for a private drive with one condition (3-0)
• Approved Variance No. P23-0147 for 2312 Maddison Avenue to reduce side setback to five feet (3-0)
• Approved $50,000 budget amendment using hotel sales tax capital funds for Welcome Center improvements (3-0)
• Appointed five members to the Recreation Advisory Board for 2-year terms (3-0)
• Appointed Suzie Harvey to the Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission (3-0)
• Appointed Jim Jenkins and Courtney Elder to the Planning Commission for 4-year terms (3-0)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to discuss fleet and facility maintenance. The body will review training hours, volunteer recruit lists, and fire safety classes in elementary schools.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Status of FF2 and EMR classes
• Review of fire safety classes in elementary schools

The Station Chiefs approved the minutes from the August 14, 2023 meeting. The group reviewed maintenance work orders, the September training schedule, and volunteer training hour requirements. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved August 14, 2023 minutes

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is meeting to review the Director's Report. Discussions include the cancellation of an election for the Town of North High Shoals and qualified candidates for the City of Watkinsville.

• Cancellation of Election for Town of North High Shoals
• Review of Qualified Candidates for City of Watkinsville
• Voter Registration update
• Poll Worker Training scheduled for 09/26/2023

The Board of Elections approved the minutes from the August 8, 2023, meeting. The board received reports on voter registration totals and the cancellation of the Town of North High Shoals election due to lack of opposition.

• Approved August 8, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session (unanimous)
• Reconvened from executive session (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several county-wide matters, including a new alcohol license application and the abandonment of Hillsboro Road. The meeting also includes discussions on probation services and court collection services.

• Alcohol license application for La Cabana Lopez LLC
• Abandonment of Hillsboro Road - North High Shoals
• Agreement for Court Collection Services between i3 Verticals and Oconee County Probate Court
• 2023 Resurfacing Contract Modification
• MOU with Tourism and Visitors Bureau for William Daniel House as a Welcome Center

The Board approved a new alcohol license for La Cabana Lopez LLC. Several other items, including a road resurfacing modification and a right-of-way dedication, were moved to the September 12 Consent Agenda by consensus.

• Approved new alcohol license for La Cabana Lopez LLC (4-0)
• Approved August 29, 2023 Agenda (4-0)
• Placed ig Verticals court collection services agreement on Sept 12 Consent Agenda
• Placed 2023 resurfacing contract modification (less than $17,000) on Sept 12 Consent Agenda
• Placed GDOT right-of-way dedication of 0.041 acres on Sept 12 Consent Agenda
• Placed Hillsboro Road abandonment on Sept 12 Consent Agenda
• Placed Tourism and Visitors Bureau MOU for William Daniell House on Sept 12 Consent Agenda

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. The body will consider the adoption of the agenda and the approval of minutes from the August 3, 2023, meeting.

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority voted unanimously to accept a contract for the sale of 52.8 acres of land. The agreement sets the price at $37,500 per acre.

• Approved sale of 52.8 acres of Highway 316 Gateway West property at $37,500 per acre (Unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved minutes from August 3, 2023 meeting

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss two rezoning applications. The body will also review the minutes from the July 17, 2023 meeting.

• Rezone #P23-0138: 2.05 acres at 2000 Atlanta Hwy from B-1 to B-2
• Rezone #P23-0139: 29.44 acres at 1291 Aiken Rd & University Pkwy from R-1/AG to IND/OBP

The Planning Commission recommended approval for two property rezoning requests, both subject to five staff conditions. One request involved a 2.05-acre vacant property on Atlanta Hwy, and the other involved 29.44 acres at Aiken Rd and University Pkwy.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0138 for Hale's Holdings, LLC (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P23-0139 for Andersen-Wells II, LLC (6-1)
• Approved July 17 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Oconee County Tourism & Visitors Bureau Board will meet to hear a director's presentation and vote on bathrooms for WD House. The board will also reschedule its September meeting.

• Vote on bathrooms for WD House

The board accepted a Memorandum of Understanding with the County Commissioners for the William Daniells House. It also authorized bathroom construction via Bane Construction using 2015 Historical SPLOST funding.

• Approved meeting minutes from August (unanimous)
• Accepted MOU between Oconee County Commissioners and OCTVB for the William Daniells House (unanimous)
• Approved bathroom construction at William Daniells House through Bane Construction, not to exceed $50,000 in 2015 Historical SPLOST funding (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will meet to discuss fleet and facility work orders. The body will review training hours, volunteer recruit lists, and fire safety classes in elementary schools.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Status of FF1, FF2, and EMR classes
• Fire safety classes in elementary schools
• Review of preplan and member address lists

The Station Chiefs approved the minutes from the July 10, 2023 meeting. The group reviewed August training schedules, outstanding work orders, and training hour requirements for volunteers.

• Approved July 10, 2023 minutes

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review minutes from the previous meeting and discuss old and new business. The agenda includes district updates and a presentation by Sarah Peck.

• District updates
• Presentation by Sarah Peck

The Board approved the minutes from May 10, 2022. Members received updates regarding Open Meeting Law requirements for in-person participation and a presentation on the new Northeast Health District website.

• Approved May 10, 2022 meeting minutes

Animal Services Meeting

The Oconee County Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to elect officers and introduce new members. The board will also review a dangerous dog declaration regarding Barnett.

• Election of board officers
• Dangerous Dog Declaration- Barnett

The Advisory Committee unanimously upheld a determination to classify a dog named Blanca as a Dangerous Dog following a complaint regarding an injury on Payne Rd. This classification requires yearly licensing and specific housing and handling requirements. The owner, Ms. Barnett, was notified of the obligations and surrender options via a certified letter.

• Approved July meeting minutes
• Voted to wait to elect officers
• Unanimously upheld 'Dangerous Dog' declaration for dog named Blanca

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications, continuations, and releases. The board will also consider a neighborhood reclassification policy and approve late appeal letters.

• CUV Application: Brian & Amanda Watts (D-02-034A)
• CUV Continuations: Terry & Jackie McElroy and Arthur & Laura Templin
• CUV Release: Lynda Sims (A-01-036)
• Homestead approval for A-03-003JA SD HS
• Approval of neighborhood reclassification policy

The Board approved the tax digest for delivery to the tax commissioner's office to generate bills. Members also approved several conservation use (CUV) applications, continuations, and a release, as well as a new subdivision class selection criterion.

• Approved tax digest for delivery to tax commissioner's office
• Approved subdivision class selection criterion
• Approved CUV Application D-02-034A (Watts, Brian & Amanda)
• Approved CUV Continuations A-03-030C, A-03-030CA (McElroy), and B-04-001 (Templin)
• Approved CUV release A-01-036 (Sims, Lynda)
• Approved homestead for parcel A-03-003JA
• Approved denial of appeal for parcel W-09A-002D due to late post-mark
• Approved 36 real property appeals for Board of Equalization, 183 real property 30-day notices, and 10 personal property 30-day notices

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections will discuss a site assessment for ADA compliance at Poplar Springs Baptist Church. The board will also receive reports on voter registration and a Secretary of State decision regarding a software update.

• ADA compliance site assessment for Poplar Springs Baptist Church
• Secretary of State decision on proposed software update
• Qualifying for City of Watkinsville and Town of North High Shoals (August 21-23)
• EMS Fundamental Training for Sharon and Jennifer on August 15, 2023

The Board of Elections approved work to install a hand railing and light at the Colham Ferry precinct to ensure ADA compliance. The board also approved the minutes from the May 2, 2023 meeting.

• Approved minutes from May 2, 2023 meeting (unanimous, one abstention)
• Authorized ADA compliance work at Poplar Springs Baptist Church (unanimous)

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. The body will consider the adoption of the agenda and the approval of minutes from the June 8, 2023, meeting.

• Approval of June 8, 2023, meeting minutes

The Authority approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from June 8, 2023. The board entered an executive session to discuss real estate matters, but no action was taken during that session.

• Approved meeting agenda
• Approved June 8, 2023 meeting minutes

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will review the 2023 tax millage levy for school maintenance and operations. The board is also considering revenue bonds and an intergovernmental contract with the Walton County Water and Sewerage Authority for the Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Project.

• Confirmation of 2023 Tax Millage Levy for Oconee County Schools Maintenance and Operations
• Issuance of Walton County Water and Sewerage Authority Revenue Bonds for Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Project
• Rezone #P23-0120 for Core Blend Training, LLC at 1020 Jamestown Blvd
• Special Use #P23-0116 for Prince Avenue Baptist Church, Inc. at 2201 Ruth Jackson Rd
• Alcohol license application for Jim N Nick's Bar-B-Q

The Board of Commissioners approved the issuance of $12 million in revenue bonds for the Oconee-Half Labor Creek Reservoir Project. Other actions included confirming the school tax millage levy and approving three land-use requests.

• Approved $12M in revenue bonds for Oconee-Half Labor Creek Reservoir Project (4-0)
• Confirmed 2023 tax millage levy of 15.00 mills for Oconee County Schools Maintenance and Operations (4-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P23-0120 for Core Blend Training, LLC at 1020 Jamestown Blvd with three conditions (3-0)
• Approved Special Use No. P23-0116 for Prince Avenue Baptist Church at 2201 Ruth Jackson Road with three conditions (4-0)
• Approved Variance No. P23-0136 for Ryan and Jennifer Hammock at 1400 Dove Creek Road with one condition (4-0)
• Approved new alcohol license for Jim N Nick’s Bar-B-Q (4-0)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a new alcohol license application and a volunteer background check agreement. The agenda also includes time for citizen and commissioner remarks.

• Alcohol license application for Jim N Nick's Bar-B-Q
• NCSI Volunteer Background Check Agreement

The Board of Commissioners approved the renewal of a background check screening agreement for Parks and Recreation volunteers. A request for a new alcohol license for Jim N Nick’s Bar-B-Q was moved to a future meeting's consent agenda.

• Approved NCSI volunteer background check agreement renewal (4-0)
• Placed Jim N Nick’s Management, LLC alcohol license request on August 1, 2023 Consent Agenda

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to review previous minutes and discuss an aquatic facility with representatives from the Oconee Swim League.

• Discussion with Kelly Price and John Harvey of Oconee Swim League regarding an aquatic facility

The committee heard testimony from Oconee Swim League volunteers advocating for a county pool to accommodate 700 swimmers and serve seniors and people with disabilities. Committee members discussed the need for a tangible 5-year plan, including architectural designs and funding projections, to present to the Board of Commissioners.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 16 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss two land-use cases. The body will review a rezoning request for a vacant property and a change in conditions for a church site.

• Rezone #P23-0120: Core Blend Training, LLC for 2.13 acres at 1020 Jamestown Blvd
• Special Use #P23-0116: Prince Avenue Baptist Church, Inc. for 74.41 acres at 2201 Ruth Jackson Rd

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a rezoning request and a special use permit, both subject to staff conditions. Both recommendations passed with unanimous votes.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0120 for Core Blend Training, LLC at 1020 Jamestown Blvd (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P23-0116 for Prince Avenue Baptist Church, Inc. at 2201 Ruth Jackson Rd (Unanimous)
• Approved June 19 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Animal Services Meeting

The Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to elect officers and introduce new members. The Manager of Animal Services will provide updates on the budget, projects, ordinances, and statistics.

• Election of board officers
• Introduction of new members
• Manager of Animal Services updates on budget and ordinances

The board discussed proposed ordinance changes regarding animal registration, sterilization, and vehicle safety. Members also reviewed intake statistics and upcoming community events. A vote was held to hear an appeal for a dangerous dog declaration on Payne Road.

• Voted to hear dangerous dog declaration appeal for Payne Road (2-1)
• Scheduled dangerous dog appeal meeting for August 9

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board unanimously approved several Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications and continuations. It also approved a homestead removal letter and authorized the hiring of an Appraiser II.

• Approved 13 CUV Applications (Unanimous)
• Approved 10 CUV Continuations (Unanimous)
• Approved CUV breach for Stewart Brothers Properties (Unanimous)
• Approved homestead removal letter (Unanimous)
• Approved authority for Wayne Patrick to hire the best fit for Appraiser II position (Unanimous)
• Approved June 11, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The board is meeting to review the Director's report and a finance update. The agenda also includes the approval of minutes from March and May 2023.

• Approval of March 2023 minutes
• Approval of May 2023 minutes
• Director Report
• Finance Update

The board approved the May meeting minutes and received reports on website analytics, advertising, and the William Daniells House move. No final decisions were made regarding billboard options or bathroom installations for the house move.

• Approved May meeting minutes

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will consider the 2023 tax millage levy for government operations and the adoption of Parks Master Plans. The meeting includes several zoning and variance requests and a discussion on selling the Library and Government Annex buildings.

• Rezone #P23-0090: 6.285 acres at 7760 Macon Hwy & Veterans Memorial Parkway from AR to B2
• Special Use #P23-0089: Diesel Truck Refueling Bays at 7760 Macon Hwy & Veterans Memorial Parkway
• Variance #P23-0080: Solar panels in front yard at 1117 Knob Creek Drive
• Variance #P23-0098: Side building setback reduction at 1520 Autumn Park
• Approval of Union Church Road Resurfacing Contract

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezone and special use request for a Quick Trip development on Macon Highway. The project includes a convenience store and diesel truck refueling bays subject to six conditions. The Board also announced the opening of a new Administrative Building on July 24, 2023.

• Approved Rezone No. P23-0090 for 6.285 acres at 7760 Macon Highway from AR to B-2 with six conditions (3-0)
• Approved Special Use No. P23-0089 for diesel truck refueling bays at 7760 Macon Highway with six conditions (3-0)
• Approved July 11, 2023 Agenda (3-0)
• Approved minutes from June 6, June 15, and June 27, 2023 meetings (3-0)

Library Advisory Board

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review reports from the branch manager and regional services. The board will discuss old business regarding a new library update, the 2023-24 budget, and requests for reconsideration of material.

• New Library Update
• Budget for 2023-24
• Request for Reconsideration of Material
• Update on Monthly Programs and Displays

The board approved a revised budget that eliminates staff raises for the fiscal year due to rising health benefit costs and decreased funding from the City of Watkinsville. The board also voted to move the book “Flamer” from the young adult area to the adult area. Construction of the new library at Wire Park is projected for completion in December.

• Approved minutes of the April 2023 meeting
• Approved revised budget (no staff raises this fiscal year)
• Approved moving the book “Flamer” from young adult to adult area (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to discuss fleet and facility maintenance. The body will review training hours, volunteer recruits, and equipment such as thermal imagers.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of July training and FF1 class status
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Discussion on radio traffic and incident command
• Status of target hazard buildings for each station

Station Chiefs approved the formation of a committee to evaluate new Thermal Imaging Cameras for the 2025 fiscal year. The group also reviewed July training schedules and June training hours. Personnel were instructed to ensure volunteers meet annual training requirements by December 15, 2023.

• Approved June 12, 2023 minutes
• Approved appointment of Kirk Atkinson, Ward Burke, Dusty Powell, Paul Thaxton, and Mike Towe to the Thermal Imager committee

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission is meeting to review a budget report and receive updates from the Executive Director. The agenda includes reports from committee breakouts and discussions of new and old business.

• Budget report review
• Executive Director report on current programs

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss road resurfacing contracts and the FY24 property and liability insurance renewal. The meeting includes a review of the Parks Master Plans and a new alcohol license application.

• 2023 Resurfacing Contract Modification
• Union Church Road Resurfacing Contract
• FY24 ACCG-IRMA Property and Liability Insurance Renewal
• FY24 Family Connection Contract (July 1, 2023 - June 30, 2024)
• Alcohol license for 5300 Bishop BP LLC

The Board of Commissioners approved the FY24 property and liability insurance renewal and the FY24 Family Connection Contract. A new alcohol license for 5300 Bishop BP LLC was approved contingent upon a business license. Several road resurfacing items were deferred to the July 11 meeting.

• Approved FY24 ACCG-IRMA Property and Liability Insurance Renewal for $394,488 (4-0)
• Approved FY24 Family Connection Contract for $52,500 (4-0)
• Approved new alcohol license for 5300 Bishop BP LLC contingent upon business license (4-0)
• Tabled 2023 resurfacing contract modification for July 11 meeting
• Tabled Union Church Road resurfacing for July 11 meeting
• Tabled adoption of Parks Master Plans for July 11 meeting

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss a rezoning request and a special use permit for a property at 7760 Macon Hwy & Veterans Memorial Parkway. The commission will also review the minutes from the May 15, 2023 meeting.

• Rezone #P23-0090: Request to change 6.285 acres from AR to B2 at 7760 Macon Hwy & Veterans Memorial Parkway
• Special Use #P23-0089: Request for diesel truck refueling bays at 7760 Macon Hwy & Veterans Memorial Parkway

The Planning Commission recommended approval for a rezoning request and a special use permit for a 6.285-acre site. Both recommendations were subject to four staff conditions.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0090 with 4 staff conditions (4-1)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P23-0089 with 4 staff conditions (4-1)
• Approved May 15 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Farmland Preservation

The committee is meeting to discuss the status of pending ACEP-ALE applications and establish timelines for future submissions and rankings. Members will also plan a public meeting for July 2023.

• Update from Athens Land Trust on pending ACEP-ALE applications
• Establishment of timeline for ACEP-ALE application submissions
• Establishment of timeline for ACEP-ALE application ranking reviews
• Planning of date, time, and location for July 2023 Public Meeting

The Farmland Preservation Committee established a schedule for 2024 ACEP-ALE funding applications, including a September 8 deadline. The committee also scheduled a public meeting for July 20, 2023, to discuss the application process.

• Approved July 21, 2022 meeting minutes
• Scheduled public meeting for July 20, 2023, at UGA J. Phil Campbell Sr. Research and Education Center
• Set ACEP-ALE application deadline for September 8, 2023
• Scheduled farm visits for September 13, 2023
• Scheduled committee ranking meeting for September 20, 2023
• Scheduled presentation to Board of Commissioners for September 26, 2023
• Scheduled Board of Commissioners vote for October 3, 2023

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors will meet to review Current Use Valuation (CUV) applications and continuations. The body will also address homestead approvals and discuss the Policy Manual.

• CUV Applications for Gary & Mary Tyre, Charles Dickens, Michael & Jennifer England, Mark & Heather Christenson, and Eddie Garrett
• CUV Continuation for Michael & Yvette Jackson
• Homestead approval review
• Policy Manual discussion

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will meet to discuss fleet and facility maintenance. The body will review training hours, volunteer recruits, and the status of several pieces of equipment. An executive session may be held to discuss personnel matters.

• Review of June training and FF1 class status
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Status of new Rescue 4, Rescue 7, and Air Truck
• Status of ISO Evaluation
• Update on LED hand lights and tanker map holders

Station Chiefs approved the May 10, 2023 minutes and reviewed June training schedules. The group agreed to remove report holders from all Tankers. Officials provided updates on vehicle maintenance, new rescue units, and an upcoming office relocation.

• Approved May 10, 2023 minutes
• Agreed to remove report holders from all Tankers

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority is meeting to approve its budget and insurance renewal for fiscal year 2024. The body will also review minutes from the March 21, 2023, meeting.

• Presentation and approval of the FY24 Budget
• Approval of the FY24 ACCG-IRMA Insurance Renewal

The Authority approved a balanced FY24 operating budget of $47,000 and the FY24 ACCG-IRMA insurance renewal. Members also approved a warranty deed and an amendment to the Declaration of Restrictions, Easements, and Covenants for the OIIT building.

• Approved FY24 balanced budget of $47,000 (Unanimous)
• Approved FY24 ACCG-IRMA Insurance Renewal (Unanimous)
• Approved warranty deed for OIIT building conveyance to The Board of Regents (Unanimous)
• Approved amendment of Declaration of Restrictions, Easements, and Covenants for OIIT property (Unanimous)
• Approved March 21, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the FY24 Budget. The meeting includes several zoning requests and variances, as well as discussions on county rights-of-way and personnel appointments.

• Public hearing on the FY24 Budget
• Rezoning requests for Julian Drive, 1030 Chambers Court, 1391 Jennings Mill Road, and 2521 Mars Hill Road
• Variances for a dental office at 2521 Mars Hill Rd and a rehabilitation hospital at 1083 Parkway Blvd
• Public hearing on Old Jennings Mill Road, Jennings Mill Extension and Research Parkway Rights-of-Way
• Text Amendments to Unified Development Code Articles 2, 3, 6, and 13

The Board of Commissioners approved the FY24 General Fund budget and total budget, along with a revised fee schedule. The Board also approved the Joint Comprehensive Plan Update and two rezoning requests, while denying one.

• Approved FY24 General Fund budget of $38,834,959 and total budget of $75,018,615
• Approved FY24 Revised Fee schedule
• Approved Joint Comprehensive Plan Update
• Denied Rezone No. P22-0204 for Lifemark Development, LLC at Julian Drive/Mars Hill Road (3-1)
• Approved Rezone No. P22-0317 for Chambers Family Partnership, LLC at 1030 Chambers Court to R-1
• Approved Rezone No. P23-0046 for Chambers Family Partnership, LLC at 1391 Jennings Mill Road to OIP

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority will review a financial report and operations and management updates. The body is scheduled to consider the approval of a second amendment to the Chip Ferguson Intergovernmental Water Treatment and Transmission Agreement.

• Approval of Second Amendment to the Chip Ferguson Intergovernmental Water Treatment and Transmission Agreement
• Update on meeting with EPD

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding the FY24 Budget. The meeting also includes discussions on county-wide personnel adjustments and a joint use agreement with the Board of Education.

• Public hearing on FY24 Budget
• Contract award for Athletic Turf Fields Annual Maintenance
• Oconee County 401a Plan Amendment
• Joint Use Agreement with the Board of Education
• Merit and Equity Adjustments

The Board held a public hearing for the proposed FY24 budget, which includes a General Fund of $38,834,959. Several items were discussed and placed on the June 6 consent agenda for final action. No substantive votes were taken other than approving the meeting agenda.

• Approved May 23, 2023 Agenda (4-0)
• Placed Athletic Turf Maintenance contract for Laserturf SE (not to exceed $156,486) on June 6 Consent Agenda
• Placed 401(a) plan matching contribution proposal on June 6 Consent Agenda
• Placed five-year Joint Use Agreement with Board of Education on June 6 Consent Agenda
• Placed equity adjustments ($1,000 full-time/$500 part-time) and $50,000 merit funding on June 6 Consent Agenda

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to tour the expansion of the Senior Center. The body will also review minutes and notes from a March 21 Town Hall meeting.

• Tour of Senior Center expansion

The committee toured the Senior Center expansion and reviewed notes from a March 21 town hall meeting. Discussions included the timeline for LAS site decommissioning and potential future projects for tennis and pickleball courts. No new policy or funding decisions were made.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 17 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to discuss four specific rezoning applications. The body will also review the minutes from the April 17, 2023 meeting.

• Rezone #P22-0294: 6 acres on Julian Drive from R-1 to OBP
• Rezone #P22-0317: 18.98 acres at 1030 Chambers Court from R-2, R-3 to R-1
• Rezone #P23-0046: 6.35 acres at 1391 Jennings Mill Road from AG, R-2 to OIP
• Rezone #P23-0073: 3.05 acres at 2521 Mars Hill Road from AR to OIP

The Planning Commission recommended approval for three rezoning requests with staff conditions. One rezoning request at 2521 Mars Hill Road was denied following public opposition regarding traffic and neighborhood precedent.

• Approved Rezone #P22-0294 for Lifemark Development, LLC at Julian Drive (5-1)
• Approved Rezone #223-0317 for Chambers Family Partnership, LLLP at 1030 Chambers Court (Unanimous)
• Approved Rezone #P23-0046 for Chambers Family Partnership, LLLP at 1391 Jennings Mill Road (Unanimous)
• Denied Rezone #P23-0073 for Steven Lamar & David Hale at 2521 Mars Hill Road (4-2)
• Approved April 17 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to discuss district updates and review minutes from the previous meeting. Keli Hinson will provide an overview of the Environmental Health Program.

• Environmental Health Program Overview presented by Keli Hinson
• District Updates

The Board approved the minutes from the February 8, 2022 meeting. Members discussed a denied budget request for an additional Environmental Health employee and a variance request for a property on Hodges Mill Road.

• Approved February 8, 2022 meeting minutes

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Oconee County Tourism and Visitors Bureau Board will meet to review director and finance reports. The board is scheduled to vote on the FY23/FY24 budget and a motion to move WC.

• Vote to approve FY23/FY24 budget
• Vote to move WC

The Board approved the FY24 Budget with a planned $6,000 rent adjustment for the William Daniels House. Members also authorized staff to move forward with relocating the visitors center to the William Daniels House.

• Approved April 13 minutes
• Approved FY24 Budget with anticipated $6,000 rent adjustment for William Daniels House
• Approved relocation of visitors center to the William Daniels House

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications and continuations. The board will also discuss the final ratio approval and the mailing of assessment notices.

• CUV Applications for 14 properties, including parcels for Mark Dawson (64.18) and Michael & Lorelei Lowder (58.37)
• CUV Continuations for 5 properties, including Rose Creek Plantation (395.00 and 15.60)
• Final Ratio approval
• Approval of Homestead, Freeport, and mailing of assessment notices
• Update on Acmin exempt property application

The Board unanimously approved final ratios and the mailing of real and personal property assessment notices. The board also approved several CUV applications, continuations, and an exempt property application for Acmin.

• Approved April 11, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 14 CUV Applications (unanimous)
• Approved 5 CUV Continuations (unanimous)
• Approved four non-disclosure applications (unanimous)
• Approved exempt property application of Acmin (unanimous)
• Approved final ratios (unanimous)
• Approved mailing of assessment notices and freeport and homestead (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to discuss fleet and facility work orders. The body will review training hours, volunteer recruits, and the status of the FF1 class. The meeting includes a discussion on ISO meeting status regarding engines, tanker compartments, and stations.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Argus TIC batteries
• May training and volunteer recruit list
• FF1 class status
• ISO meeting status for engines, tanker compartments, and stations

The Oconee County Fire Rescue chiefs met on May 8, 2023, and reviewed station maintenance, training schedules, and volunteer training compliance. They noted that 7 of 18 thermal imaging camera batteries are out of service and the units are obsolete. Chiefs were reminded to prepare for an ISO inspection on May 17.

• Approved minutes of April 10, 2023 meeting
• Noted 7 of 18 Argus TIC batteries out of service; vendors contacted for replacements
• Encouraged chiefs to clean trucks and station bays ahead of ISO evaluation on May 17
• Reminded chiefs to ensure training reports match monthly calendars
• Adjourned by consensus at 6:45 PM

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission is meeting to review a budget report and receive updates from the Executive Director. The agenda consists of standard procedural items and committee reports.

• Approval of March 2023 meeting minutes
• Budget report
• Executive Director report on current programs

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will present the FY24 Budget Proposal and discuss a Joint Use Agreement with the Board of Education. The meeting includes several zoning requests and approvals for infrastructure and alcohol licenses.

• FY24 Budget Proposal presentation
• Rezone #P23-0087: 42.76 acres at Southeast corner of Highway 78 and Highway 53
• Special Use #P23-0052: Residential Amenity Lot on Treadwell Bridge Road (415.48 acres)
• Alcohol license requests for The Crab Hut (1011 Park Drive) and Flying Biscuit Cafe (1850 Epps Bridge Parkway)
• Right-of-Way contract for SR53 at Snows Mill Road/Rocky Branch

The Board of Commissioners approved three rezoning requests. The most consequential was Rezone P23-0087, which rezoned 42.76 acres at State Route 53 and US Highway 78 from B-1 to B-1 and B-2 to allow a mixed-use commercial development, including a grocery store, with five conditions. The vote was 3-1, with Commissioner Horton dissenting. The Board also approved a change of conditions for a 1.38-acre property at 1030 Cliff Dawson Road to increase allowable building size, and a 7.82-acre rezone from AG to AR-3 for estate planning.

• Approved Rezone P23-0087 for 42.76 acres off Hog Mountain Road and Hwy 78 from B-1 to B-1 and B-2 with five conditions (3-1)
• Approved Rezone P22-0315 for 1.38 acres at 1030 Cliff Dawson Road changing conditions from Rezone #1967 to allow larger building with nine conditions (4-0)
• Approved Rezone P23-0043 for 7.82 acres at Hwy 53 and Bishop Farms Parkway from AG to AR-3 with three conditions (4-0)
• Approved the May 2, 2023 agenda (4-0)
• Approved minutes of April 4, 2023 Regular Meeting and April 25, 2023 Agenda Meeting (4-0)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is meeting to approve previous minutes and receive updates from the Director. The agenda includes reports on a move, voter registration, and precinct surveying.

• Approval of April 4, 2023 minutes
• Update on office move
• High School voter registration drive at OCHS
• Surveying of precincts
• Potential executive session for personnel matters or litigation

The board unanimously approved the April 4, 2023 meeting minutes. No new business was discussed. The board noted that the June and July meetings were previously cancelled, and the August meeting was delayed one week to August 8, 2023. The director reported that the office move is now scheduled to begin July 20, with an open date of July 24.

• Approved minutes from April 4, 2023 meeting (unanimous)
• Noted cancellation of June and July meetings (previously decided)
• Rescheduled August meeting to August 8, 2023 (previously decided)

Animal Services Meeting

The Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to approve previous minutes and receive updates from Manager Crystal Berisko. Discussions will cover budget, events, and statistics.

• Approval of February 1, 2023 minutes
• Manager of Animal Services updates on budget, events, and stats

The board reviewed facility needs including kennel doors, soundproofing, and epoxy flooring. Discussions were held regarding staffing, volunteer coordination, and upcoming adoption events. No formal votes on expenditures or policy changes were recorded.

• Discussed replacement of metal hollow dog kennel doors
• Discussed soundproofing in kennel areas
• Discussed key card entry for non-public areas
• Discussed purchase of industrial printer
• Discussed PetPoint and Blue Fin credit card services
• Discussed potential for full-time admin or kennel tech position
• Discussed GiftPulse subscription for volunteers ($20-$170 monthly)
• Discussed replacement of epoxy flooring

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the draft update to the Comprehensive Plan. The board will also discuss several infrastructure contracts, alcohol license requests, and right-of-way agreements.

• Public Hearing on the Draft Update to the Comprehensive Plan
• SR53 at Snows Mill Road/Rocky Branch Right-of-Way Contract
• SR 53 at Union Church Road Signal Installation and Oconee Connector Signal Head Replacement bid
• Alcohol license requests for The Crab Hut (1011 Park Drive) and Flying Biscuit Cafe (1850 Epps Bridge Parkway)
• Right of Way Abandonment for Old Jennings Mill Road, Jennings Mill Extension and Research Parkway

The Board held a public hearing regarding proposed revisions to the Comprehensive Plan, which will be presented for adoption on June 27, 2023. Several other items were discussed and placed on the May 2, 2023, Consent Agenda for future action. No substantive votes were taken other than the approval of the meeting agenda.

• Approved April 25, 2023 Agenda (4-0)
• Placed GDOT right-of-way contract for SR53 roundabout on May 2 Consent Agenda
• Placed $240,825 bid award to Wright Brown Electric on May 2 Consent Agenda
• Placed Oconee Futbol Club and Oconee County Little League concession renewals on May 2 Consent Agenda
• Placed MOU with Oconee Parks Foundation on May 2 Consent Agenda
• Placed GTC Encroachment Agreement for Fuller Drive on May 2 Consent Agenda
• Placed alcohol license requests for The Crab Hut and Flying Biscuit Cafe on May 2 Consent Agenda
• Placed right-of-way abandonment for Old Jennings Mill Road, Jennings Mill Extension, and Research Parkway on May 2 Consent Agenda

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to discuss several land-use changes and text amendments. The body will consider rezoning requests for properties on Cliff Dawson Road, Highway 53, and Cole Springs Road, as well as a special use request for a residential amenity lot.

• Rezone #P22-0315: 1.38 acres at 1030 Cliff Dawson Road
• Rezone #P23-0043: 7.82 acres at Highway 53 and Bishop Farms Parkway (AG to AR-3)
• Rezone #P23-0051: 10.03 acres at 2371 Cole Springs Road (AG to AR)
• Special Use #P23-0052: 415.48 acres at Choyce Johnson Road and Treadwell Bridge Road
• Text Amendments

The Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval for four rezoning applications and approved amendments to the Unified Development Code. One rezoning request included five specific conditions regarding building facades and windows.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P22-0315 at 1030 Cliff Dawson Road with 5 conditions (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0043 at Highway 53 and Bishop Farms Parkway (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0051 at 2371 Cole Springs Road (Unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0052 at Treadwell Bridge Road (Unanimous)
• Approved UDC Text Amendments for Articles 2, 3, and 10 (Unanimous)
• Approved March 20, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific business items or decisions are listed for public discussion.

The board met on April 13, 2023, and entered an executive session. No substantive decisions or public actions were recorded in the minutes.

• Entered executive session at 5:43 p.m.
• Exited executive session at 6:25 p.m.

Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board

The Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board and Walton County Water & Sewerage Authority are meeting to discuss water treatment facility contracts and reservoir maintenance. The body will review project budgets and decommissioning proposals for the Apalachee River Intake.

• Proposed contract for Water Transmission Main Design Services to Engineering Strategies, Inc. for $597,224.38
• Proposed contract for decommissioning items to Thomas Brothers Hydro for $126,958.00
• Proposed 2023 mowing and maintenance contract to Lead Foot Mulching and Grading for $21,126.00
• Proposed $2,000 payment to Wesley Howard for livestock fence repair off Howard Road
• Consideration of contract and fee negotiations with Archer Western Construction for CMAR services

Planning Commission Meeting

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review applications for Conservation Use Values (CUV), including new applications and continuations. The board will also consider exempt property applications and discuss the budget.

• Review of multiple new CUV applications, including a 122.75-acre parcel for Lovern Family LLP
• Review of CUV continuations, including a 193.51-acre parcel for Johnny Michael
• CUV breach without penalty for multiple Gissendanner Estate parcels
• Exempt property applications for Radio Training Network and Acmin, LLC
• Budget discussion

The Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved a large volume of Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications and continuations. The board also approved an exempt property application for Radio Training Network and hired Rachel Smith for an open position. A budget for training was approved at an amended amount of $9,280.

• Approved multiple CUV Applications (Unanimous)
• Approved multiple CUV Continuations (Unanimous)
• Approved CUV breach with no penalty for Gissendanner Estate
• Approved exempt property application for Radio Training Network (Unanimous)
• Tabled exempt property application for Acmin, LLC (Unanimous)
• Approved amended training budget of $9,280 (Unanimous)
• Approved hiring of Rachel Smith (Opposed by Jim Luke)
• Approved March 14, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

Library Advisory Board

The Oconee County Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the 2023-24 budget and a request for reconsideration of material. The board will also receive updates on the new library and naming rights fundraising.

• Budget for 2023-24
• Request for Reconsideration of Material
• New Library update
• Naming Rights and Fundraising

The board approved the proposed budget for the 2024 fiscal year. Members also reviewed the third-quarter financial performance and discussed naming opportunities for the new library at Wire Park.

• Approved proposed fiscal year 2024 budget
• Approved January 2023 meeting minutes

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and Membership will meet to discuss fleet and facility work orders. The body will review April training, volunteer recruits, and training hour compliance. The agenda includes a status update on the ISO meeting regarding clean trucks and stations.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Status of FF1 Class
• ISO meeting status regarding clean trucks and stations
• Review of members lacking training hours

The Station Chiefs approved the minutes from the March 13, 2023 meeting. The group reviewed April training schedules, March training hours, and outstanding maintenance work orders. No other formal votes were recorded.

• Approved March 13, 2023 minutes

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will review two rezoning applications and three street light tax districts. The board is also considering several contracts, including a budget amendment for Sheriff's Office vehicles.

• Rezone #P22-0319: 1181 Jennings Mill Road (± 23.92 acres)
• Rezone #P23-0015: 1031 Mallard Lake Drive (± 9.21 acres)
• Street Light Tax Districts for Village at Stonebridge, River Rock Phase I, and Stonewood Phase III
• Budget amendment to fund Sheriff's Office vehicles and equipment
• FY23 Aging Services Contract with Northeast Georgia Regional Commission

The Board of Commissioners approved a change of conditions for a business district rezone and a request to create a three-lot residential subdivision. Three special street light tax districts were established, and several administrative contracts and budget amendments were passed via the consent agenda.

• Approved Rezone No. P22-0319 for 1181 Jennings Mill Road with nine conditions
• Approved Rezone No. P23-0015 for 1031 Mallard Lake Drive with three conditions
• Approved Street Light Tax District No. P22-0149 for Village at Stonebridge
• Approved Street Light Tax District No. P22-0162 for River Rock Phase 1
• Approved Street Light Tax District No. P23-0034 for Stonewood Phase III
• Approved Tax Commissioner Agreement
• Approved FY23 Aging Services Contract with Northeast Georgia Regional Commission
• Approved budget amendment for Sheriffs Office vehicles and equipment

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a Tax Commissioner Agreement and an FY23 Aging Services Contract. The meeting includes reviews of right-of-way deeds and budget amendments for the Sheriff's Office.

• Tax Commissioner Agreement discussion
• FY23 Aging Services Contract with Northeast Georgia Regional Commission
• SR53 at Rays Church/Malcom Bridge Road Right-of-Way Contract
• Budget amendment for Sheriff's Office vehicles and equipment
• Memorandum of Understanding with SANE

The Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda and held an executive session with no action taken. Several items, including budget amendments for vehicles and various service contracts, were moved by consensus to the April 4 Regular Meeting consent agenda.

• Approved March 28, 2023 Agenda (4-0)
• Moved Tax Commissioner Agreement to April 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved FV23 Aging Services Contract to April 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved SR53 at Rays Church/Malcom Bridge Road Right-of-Way Contract to April 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved Sanitary Sewer Easements and Right-of-Way Deeds to April 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved $269,811 Station 1 Air Truck change order to April 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved $415,000 Sheriff's Office vehicle budget amendment to April 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved Memorandum of Understanding with SANE to April 4 Consent Agenda

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The authority will review an auditor's report from Rushton & Company and receive updates from the engineering and operations committees. The body is also scheduled to discuss the reappointment of an at-large member.

• Auditor’s Report from Rushton & Company
• Reappointment of At Large Member

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority will meet to elect a Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary. The body will also receive updates regarding the sale and closing of the post office and the annual insurance renewal with ACCG.

• Election of officers (Chair, Vice-Chair, and Secretary)
• Update on the Post Office sale and closing
• Update on the annual insurance renewal with ACCG

The Authority elected its Chairman, Vice-Chair, and Secretary to five-year terms. The board received confirmation that the Post Office property sale closed with net funds of $1,599,000.71 deposited.

• Elected Brock Toole as Chairman through 12/31/2027
• Elected John Daniell as Vice-Chair through 12/31/2027
• Elected Courtney Bernardi as Secretary through 12/31/2027
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved November 7, 2022 meeting minutes

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to discuss two rezoning applications. The body will also review the minutes from the February 20, 2023 meeting.

• Rezone #P22-0319: Change in Conditions of Approval for ± 23.92 acres at 1181 Jennings Mill Road
• Rezone #P23-0015: Change from AR-1 to AR for ± 9.21 acres at 1031 Mallard Lake Drive

The Planning Commission unanimously approved two rezoning applications for properties on Jennings Mill Road and Mallard Lake Drive. Both approvals followed staff recommendations and public comment periods.

• Approved Rezone #P22-0319 for 23.92 acres at 1181 Jennings Mill Road (Unanimous)
• Approved Rezone #P23-0015 for 9.23 acres at 1031 Mallard Lake Drive (Unanimous)
• Approved February 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Family and Children Services

The Board is reviewing financial reports and staffing conditions for the Office of Family Independence and Social Services. The meeting includes updates on vacant positions and the relocation of Regional Accounting to the Oconee office.

• FY 23 spending through February 2023: $61,671.60 (65.98%)
• Office of Family Independence staffing: 0 staff
• Social Services Supervisor position vacant since August 26, 2022
• Relocation of Regional Accounting to the Oconee office before end of FY 23
• Submission of County Budget request

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Tourism & Visitors Bureau Board is meeting to review an executive director's overview and a finance and budget update. The session includes the approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Visitors Bureau Overview by the Executive Director
• Finance Update and Budget Overview

The Board approved the January meeting minutes. Members discussed February visitor KPIs and the FY23/24 financial outlook, noting that a budget vote will occur after further review. The Board requested more information and an inspection regarding the William Daniels House as a potential rent-free Welcome Center site.

• Approved January minutes (unanimous)
• Requested further information and inspection of the William Daniels House for use as a Welcome Center

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to approve minutes and review a large volume of Current Use Valuation (CUV) applications and continuations. The board will also address exempt property applications and commercial schedules.

• Review of CUV Applications for various parcels, including Townley Family Partnership and SE Commercial Group, LLC
• Review of CUV Continuations for parcels including those owned by Townley Family Partnership and David & Brenda Patrick
• CUV Release for William James parcels A-04A-003 and A-04A-004
• Exempt property application review
• Discussion of beginning ratio and commercial schedule

The Board unanimously approved a 10% base cost increase for all commercial properties and specific increases for large tracts. The Board also approved numerous Conservation Use Valuation (CUV) applications and continuations. A decision to hire a new employee was tabled until a new chief appraiser is in place.

• Approved 10% base cost increase for all commercial properties (Unanimous)
• Approved 15% increase for open large tracts and 10% for wooded large tracts (Unanimous)
• Approved multiple CUV Applications and Continuations (Unanimous)
• Approved CUV lease for 0.50 acres for a fiber hut on parcel A-07-026 (Unanimous)
• Tabled hiring of new employee until new chief appraiser is in place
• Approved one non-disclosure (Unanimous)
• Approved exempt application for church-owned parcel B-02-012BB (Unanimous)
• Approved February 14, 2023 minutes (Unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will meet to discuss fleet and facility maintenance. The body will review training schedules, volunteer recruits, and NFPA 1403 standards for live fire training.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Status of FF1 Class
• Discussion on NFPA 1403 live fire training
• Review of members lacking training hours

Station Chiefs approved the February 13, 2023 meeting minutes and a membership appeal for Jim Pirkle. The group reviewed training schedules, firefighter rosters, and equipment maintenance protocols.

• Approved February 13, 2023 minutes
• Approved membership appeal for Jim Pirkle (unanimous)
• Agreed that fire trucks and station equipment shall not be borrowed

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission will meet to approve previous minutes and review a budget report. The session includes updates from the Executive Director and committee reports.

• Approval of November 2022 meeting minutes
• Budget report
• Executive Director report on current programs

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections will meet to approve February minutes and receive reports on voter registration and the budget. The agenda includes a potential executive session for personnel matters or litigation.

• Approval of February 7, 2023 minutes
• Voter registration update
• Budget report
• Potential executive session regarding personnel or litigation

The Board of Elections unanimously approved a letter to the Board of Commissioners requesting one additional full-time staff member. The board also approved the minutes from the February 7, 2023 meeting. Preliminary FY24 budget recommendations were reviewed.

• Approved February 7, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Board of Commissioners requesting additional full-time staff (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold hearings on several zoning changes and variances. The meeting also includes approvals for road improvements and a project change order for the OVP Gym HVAC.

• Rezone #P22-0263: R-1 to B-1 for ± 0.5 acres on Stonebridge Parkway
• Rezone #P22-0295, Variance #P22-0296, and Special Use #P22-0297 for Halloran Masonry Inc. at 1619 New High Shoals Road
• Variance #P23-0016 for a residence and accessory structure at 1544 Edge Water Road
• Approval of Malcom Bridge Road Improvements
• Clarification of Mars Hil Road on No Through Truck Ordinance

The Board approved several zoning requests, including a self-storage facility at 1619 New High Shoals Road and a stormwater facility at 1315 Stonebridge Parkway. Commissioners also voted to participate in national opioid settlements and approved a settlement agreement regarding the Donald Hammett zoning issue.

• Approved Rezone #P22-0263 for stormwater facility at 1315 Stonebridge Parkway (3-0)
• Approved Rezone #P22-0295 for self-storage use at 1619 New High Shoals Road (3-2)
• Approved Variance #P22-0296 to reduce buffer from 50 to 25 feet at 1619 New High Shoals Road (3-2)
• Approved Special Use #P22-0297 for self-storage at 1619 New High Shoals Road (3-2)
• Approved Variance #P23-0016 for front-yard garage at 1544 Edge Water Drive (4-0)
• Approved Resolution to participate in national Opioid Settlements (4-0)
• Approved settlement agreement for Donald Hammett zoning issue (4-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda items including OVP Gym HVAC and Malcom Bridge Road improvements (4-0)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss infrastructure projects and county ordinances. Key items include road improvements and a project change order for the OVP Gym HVAC.

• OVP Gym HVAC Operations SPLOST Project Change Order
• Malcom Bridge Road Improvements
• 4-H Memorandum of Understanding
• Mars Hill Road clarification regarding No Through Truck Ordinance

The Board approved the meeting agenda and discussed several items, including road improvements and HVAC changes. All substantive items were placed on the March 7 Consent Agenda by consensus and no final votes were taken on those proposals.

• Approved February 28, 2023 Agenda (4-0)
• Placed OVP Gym HVAC change order of $23,924 on March 7 Consent Agenda
• Placed Malcom Bridge Road Median U-turn project award to Peach State Construction for $1,253,472 on March 7 Consent Agenda
• Placed 4-H Memorandum of Understanding on March 7 Consent Agenda
• Placed clarification of Mars Hill Road on No Through Truck Ordinance on March 7 Consent Agenda

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to discuss a settlement conference update regarding Wal-Mart. The board will also establish its next meeting date.

• Wal-Mart Settlement Conference update

The Board approved an increase in base cost per square foot and adjusted land values for several small tract parcel classes. The Board also processed numerous Conservation Use Valuation (CUV) applications and continuations.

• Approved base cost adjustment from $106.59 to $128 per square foot (unanimous)
• Approved 20% increase adjustment on accessories (unanimous)
• Approved land value increases for small tracts: 10% for 1C, 25% for 2C, 20% for 3C, 15% for 6C, and 10% for 8C (unanimous)
• Approved 51 CUV Applications (unanimous)
• Denied 2 CUV Applications (unanimous)
• Approved 29 CUV Continuations (unanimous)
• Approved CUV release for Sanders, Donna & Robert (unanimous)
• Approved 6 non-disclosures (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review numerous Current Use Valuation (CUV) applications, continuations, and appeals. The board will also discuss beginning ratios for residential, rural, commercial, and industrial properties, as well as the rural land schedule.

• Review of CUV Applications for 2023, including Elder Farm, LP (344.39) and Chad Powell (210.87)
• Review of CUV Continuations for various parcels dating back to 2015
• CUV Breach for Alexander and Sadie Ginn (breach paid 1/23/23 $12,015.02)
• CUV Release for Donna and Robert Sanders
• CUV appeal for Tony Setzer

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will meet to discuss fleet and facility maintenance. The body will also review training hours, volunteer recruits, and membership appeals.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of February training and FF1 class status
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Review of membership appeal

Station Chiefs approved the January 10, 2023 minutes and voted to deny a membership appeal. The board also reviewed February training schedules and January training hours.

• Approved January 10, 2023 minutes
• Denied membership appeal for Seth Haller

Board of Health

The Board of Health is meeting to elect officers and review district updates. The agenda includes a discussion on the FY24 Budget presented by Emily Eisenman.

• Election of Officers
• FY24 Budget discussion
• Emergency Preparedness activities report
• Nursing updates
• Environmental Health updates

The Board of Health approved the FY2024 budget, which includes a request for $227,326 from Oconee County to fund an additional Environmental Health employee. The board also voted to maintain the current slate of officers. Staff provided updates on septic system permits, patient counts, and emergency preparedness.

• Approved FY2024 budget as presented
• Approved keeping current slate of officers
• Approved minutes from November 9, 2022

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections met to review the Director's Report and upcoming events. The Director reported on a tentative office move and preparations for the fiscal year 23-24 budget.

• Tentative office move date of July 7-10
• Budget preparation for fiscal year 23-24
• Project for improved website
• New Precinct Card/MVP upgrade

The Board approved the minutes from the January 3, 2023 meeting. Members discussed an upcoming office move to the Administration Building and the preparation of the fiscal year 23-24 budget. No new business was introduced.

• Approved January 3, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled petition process and procedures
• Agreed to email Board of Commissioners regarding need for additional personnel

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a hearing on a rezoning request for a vacant property and review the 2nd Quarter FY23 financial presentation. The body will also consider agreements for roundabout engineering and a mid-year budget amendment.

• Rezone #P22-0155 for 1291 Virgil Langford Road (± 33.657 acres)
• Memorandum of Agreement with GDOT for preliminary engineering of 53 roundabouts
• Alcohol license request for Golden Pantry at 1010 Mars Hill Road
• Mid-Year Budget Amendment
• Award of Sanitary Sewer Modeling RFQ#23-09-004

The Board of Commissioners denied a rezone request for a 33.657-acre property on Virgil Langford Road. The Board also approved a GDOT agreement for roundabout design services and an alcohol license for Golden Pantry #34.

• Denied Rezone No. P22-0155 for 1291 Virgil Langford Road (4-0)
• Approved Memorandum of Agreements with GDOT for roundabout design services costing $68,000 (4-0)
• Approved alcohol license for Golden Pantry #34 at 1010 Mars Hill Road (4-0)
• Approved Resolution and Quit Claim Deed for Post Office Property (4-0)
• Appointed Adam Layfield as alternate to Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board (4-0)
• Approved Mid-Year Budget Amendment (4-0)
• Approved Sanitary Sewer Modeling RFQ#23-09-004 (4-0)
• Approved IPAWS Messaging Agreement renewal with FEMA (4-0)

Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board

The Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board and Walton County Water & Sewerage Authority are reviewing water treatment and transmission system designs. The body is considering a fee proposal from Jacobs Engineering and shortlisting firms for transmission system design services.

• Review of Scope of Work and Not-to-Exceed Fee Proposal from Jacobs Engineering for a 16 MGD Water Treatment Facility
• Shortlisting of three firms for Water Transmission System Design Services RFQ
• Proposal from Thomas Brothers Hydro to decommission existing hydro facility per FERC Order
• Authorization for PPI to solicit pricing for 2023 Dam Mowing Services
• Review of 2022 Annual Reports for Hard Labor Creek and Walton County Stream Buffer Protection

Animal Services Meeting

The Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to approve previous minutes and receive updates from Manager Crystal Berisko. The discussion will cover budget, events, and statistics.

• Approval of September 28, 2022 minutes
• Manager of Animal Services updates on budget, events, and stats

The board discussed facility upgrades, staffing needs, and upcoming community events. No formal votes or policy changes were recorded in the minutes.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a mid-year budget amendment and updates to the Unified Development Code for House Bill 1405 compliance. The body will also review a sanitary sewer modeling contract and a FEMA messaging agreement.

• Recommended UDC Amendments for House Bill 1405
• Award of Sanitary Sewer Modeling RFQ#23-09-004
• Mid-Year Budget Amendment
• Renewal of IPAWS Messaging Agreement with FEMA
• Change Order for Fire Hydrant Flow Testing & Inspection Program

The Board approved the meeting agenda and discussed compliance with House Bill 1405 regarding zoning decisions. Several items, including a sewer system model contract and a budget amendment, were moved to the February 7 Consent Agenda by consensus.

• Approved January 31, 2023 Agenda (4-0)
• Determined all zoning decisions will be presented to the BOC for approval to comply with HB 1405
• Placed $305,000 Kimley-Horn sewer system model contract on Feb 7 Consent Agenda
• Placed mid-year budget amendment request on Feb 7 Consent Agenda
• Placed FEMA IPAWS agreement renewal on Feb 7 Consent Agenda
• Placed $123,120 fire hydrant painting change order on Feb 7 Consent Agenda

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The authority will meet to receive reports on financial status, operations, and management. The agenda includes a report from the Treatment Plant Expansion Committee.

• Treatment Plant Expansion Committee Report
• Financial Report
• Operations and Management report
• Committee Appointments

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to conduct settlement conferences regarding specific tax assessments. The board will address cases involving Wal-Mart and Broad and Pope.

• Wal-Mart Settlement Conference
• Broad and Pope Settlement Conference

The Board reviewed tax appeals for Wal-Mart and Broad and Pope. A decision on the Wal-Mart appeal was deferred via a 30-day extension. A settlement value of $2.6 million was proposed to Broad and Pope, who will provide a final decision within 30 days.

• Approved 30-day extension before deciding on Wal-Mart appeal (C-01V-001)
• Proposed $2.6 million settlement to Broad and Pope (C-01-045E)

Family and Children Services

The board is reviewing the November 2022 minutes and a financial report showing $47,777.52 spent through December 31, 2022. The meeting includes updates on staffing vacancies and performance indicators for Medicaid and food stamps.

• Financial report showing $47,777.52 spent (51.11%) through December 31, 2022
• Staffing updates for Office of Family Independence and Social Services
• Discussion of potential move of regional staff to Oconee office
• Budget request deadline of February 15, 2023

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to discuss a Heritage Park concept presented by Amanda McCoy Ledford of the Athens Area Horse Community.

• Heritage Park Concept presentation by Amanda McCoy Ledford (Athens Area Horse Community)

The Recreation Advisory Committee unanimously recommended that the Board of Commissioners approve Phase I improvements for Heritage Park. The proposal focuses on equestrian facilities to attract more events to the county. Members also discussed a priority need for additional county-owned basketball gymnasium space.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved November 15 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Recommended Phase I Heritage Park improvements (arena footing, fencing, and warm-up arena) to the BOC (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will meet to discuss fleet and facility work orders. The body will also review January training, volunteer recruits, and member training hours.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Review of monthly training hours list
• Personnel matters (executive session if needed)

The Station Chiefs approved the minutes from the December 12, 2022 meeting. The group reviewed outstanding work orders, the January training schedule, and recruit rosters. They also reviewed training hour requirements for volunteers.

• Approved December 12, 2022 minutes

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Tourism & Visitors Bureau Board is meeting to review an overview from the Executive Director and receive a finance update. The board will also vote on the approval of previous minutes.

• Visitors Bureau Overview by the Executive Director
• Finance Update

The board reviewed KPI data for November and December and received a budget update. Members discussed the potential use of the Eagle Tavern location for future Tourism Office expansion.

• Approved previous meeting minutes

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to elect officers and review 18 new Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications and 6 continuations. The board will also discuss policy regarding minimum acreage requirements for residential properties in the program.

• Election of new Board of Assessors officers
• Review of 18 CUV Applications including parcels for Dickens Farms INC and Reta Thomas
• Review of 6 CUV Continuations including parcels for Eugenia M Martin and Chanda Bennett
• Discussion of Conservation Use minimum acreage requirement policy for residence property
• Discussion of PBMH base cost increase

The Board approved a 50% base cost increase for mobile homes to correct a NADA value application error. The Board also voted on several conservation use (CUV) applications and continuations and denied a request for a minimum acreage policy for residences entering conservation use.

• Approved 50% base cost increase for mobile homes (unanimous)
• Denied request for minimum acreage policy for residences entering conservation use (unanimous)
• Approved 16 CUV Applications (unanimous)
• Denied CUV Application C-01-014 Setzer, Tony & Terri (unanimous)
• Approved 8 CUV Continuations (unanimous)
• Approved appointment of Danny Mobley as Chairman, Jim Luke as Vice-Chairman, and Amanda Shelton as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved December 13, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Library Advisory Board

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to elect officers and review reports from branch managers and regional services. The board will also discuss the status of the new library and naming rights and fundraising.

• Election of officers
• Update on new library
• Naming rights and fundraising discussion
• Reports from Bogart and Watkinsville Friends of the Library

The Board unanimously approved a construction contract with Garland and Associates for the new library after reviewing six bids. The Board also elected its officers for 2023. No other substantive policy decisions were recorded.

• Approved construction contract with Garland and Associates (unanimous)
• Approved January 9, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Elected Mark Campbell as Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Rubielen Norris as Vice-Chairperson (unanimous)
• Elected Fred Lutz as Secretary (unanimous)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is meeting to approve previous minutes and receive a director's report. The session includes updates on voter registration processing and record maintenance.

• Approval of December 12, 2022 minutes
• Director's report on routine record maintenance
• Processing of Voter Registrations and Driver Services Registrations
• GA SOS Training Conference on Elections Systems (January 4-6, 2023)

The Board of Elections approved the minutes from the December 12, 2022 meeting. No new or unfinished business was addressed. The Director provided a report on voter list maintenance and registration processing.

• Approved December 12, 2022 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold hearings on seven zoning, special use, and variance requests. The body will also discuss homestead exemption changes, the budget submittal plan, and alcohol license renewals and requests.

• Rezone #P22-0252: 3651 Mars Hill Road from R2 MPD to OBP
• Special Use #P22-0254 and Variance #P22-0255: 8801 Macon Highway for self-storage
• Special Use #P22-0260: 4080 Barnett Shoals Road
• Resolution for Homestead Exemption Changes
• Alcohol license request for Bobalicious Cafe & Sushi One at 1430 Capitol Avenue

The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to change homestead exemptions and authorized a $631,000 contract for administrative building furniture. Several rezoning and special use permits were granted for commercial developments and a college. The Board also initiated the bidding process for the disposal of the Government Annex and Library buildings.

• Approved Resolution for Homestead Exemption Changes (4-0)
• Approved $631,000 contract with Corporate Environments for Administrative Building FFE (4-0)
• Approved Rezone #P22-0252 for 3651 Mars Hill Road to B-1 with 11 conditions (4-0)
• Approved Rezone #P22-0253, Special Use #P22-0254, and Variance #P22-0255 for 8801 Macon Highway (4-0)
• Approved Rezone #P22-0257 and Special Use #P22-0256 for Old Macon Highway with 7 conditions (4-0)
• Approved Special Use #P22-0260 for 4080 Barnett Shoals Road with 4 conditions (4-0)
• Approved seeking sealed bids for Government Annex and Library Buildings (4-0)
• Approved conveyance of Post Office grounds to Oconee County Industrial Development Authority (4-0)