Oconee County public meetings in 2024

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors will meet to approve minutes from two previous meetings and receive an update on Superior Court appeals. The agenda includes a scheduled executive session.

• Approve minutes from November 12 & 20 meetings
• Superior Court Appeals Update
• Executive Session

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved minutes, set values for several parcels, and discussed a conservation use renewal. They also went into executive session twice for legal discussions and approved mailing public utility notices.

• Approved November 12 minutes (unanimous)
• Set value of $6,100,000 for parcel B-04K-100 (unanimous)
• Set value of $85,000/acre for parcel B-06P-003A and $100/sqft for parcels B-06P-500, B-06P-600-603, B-06P-600-605 (unanimous)
• Approved mailing Public Utilities notices (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 hours, potential volunteer recruits, and standard operating guideline revisions.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Discussion of SOG revisions
• Discussion of Pension Fund regarding fire call response
• Review of CAD reports and times

The Station Chiefs meeting was called to order and the November 12, 2024 minutes were approved. Chiefs reviewed December training (21 classes), the Potential Firefighter and Medical Responder roster, and November training hours. They also discussed adding two sections to the SOGs, monitoring pension fund responses, ISO requirements, and reminding members of the December 19th training deadline.

• Approved November 12, 2024 meeting minutes
• Reviewed December training schedule (21 classes)
• Reviewed Potential Firefighter and Medical Responder roster (3 recruits for assessment lab)
• Reviewed November training hours
• Discussed adding SOG sections 1.60.11 and 5.20.2
• Asked chiefs to monitor pension fund structure fire responses
• Reminded chiefs of ISO on-scene time requirements
• Encouraged chiefs to contact members lacking required training hours

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will discuss three land‑use proposals at its December 9 meeting. First, a rezoning of the Townley Family Partnership (299.94 acres) from AG to AR. Second, a special‑use request by the Dixon Family Trust for overnight camp cabins on 356.05 acres. Third, a special‑use request by Prince Avenue Baptist Church to expand its church and school campus on 74.41 acres.

• Rezone #P24-0217 Townley Family Partnership; 299.94 acres; from AG to AR; located at Hog Mountain Road, Hodges Mill Road, & Rocky Branch Road; vacant
• Special Use #P24-0210 Dixon Family Trust of 2012; recreational overnight camps with rental cabins; 356.05 acres; 6011 Hog Mountain Road & 1170 Lane Creek Road; residential/agricultural
• Special Use #P24-0216 Prince Avenue Baptist Church; expansion of church and school campus; 74.41 acres; 2201 Ruth Jackson Road; church and school campus

The Oconee County Planning Commission denied a rezoning request for 299.94 acres on Hog Mountain, Hodges Mill, and Rocky Branch Roads (P24-0217) by a 4-3 vote, recommending denial to the Board of Commissioners. The commission approved a special use for a recreational camp with rental cabins on 356.05 acres (P24-0210) by a 5-1 vote, and approved a special use for expansion of Prince Avenue Baptist Church's campus on 74.41 acres (P24-0216) by a 6-0 vote, both with conditions.

• Denied Rezone #P24-0217 (299.94 acres, Hog Mountain/Hodges Mill/Rocky Branch Roads) 4-3
• Approved Special Use #P24-0210 (recreational camp, 356.05 acres, 6011 Hog Mountain Rd & 1170 Lane Creek Rd) 5-1 with conditions
• Approved Special Use #P24-0216 (church/school expansion, 74.41 acres, 2201 Ruth Jackson Rd) 6-0 with conditions
• Approved minutes of November 18, 2024 meeting unanimously

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections will approve the November 8, 2024 minutes and hear public comments. New business includes considering a revision to the residency affirmation form, discussing the feasibility of consolidating precincts, and reviewing 228 voter challenges from October. The Director will report voter registration totals, and an executive session may address personnel or litigation matters.

• Approve November 8, 2024 Board of Elections minutes
• Consider revision to the residency affirmation form
• Discuss feasibility of precinct consolidation
• Review 228 voter challenges from October
• Executive session for personnel matters or potential litigation

The Oconee County Board of Elections unanimously approved a revised Residency Affirmation Form, replacing the notary signature with a line for a poll official. The board also voted to consolidate several precincts, moving City Hall, Bishop, and North Oconee precincts to the Civic Center, and Bogart precinct to St. Philothea Greek Orthodox Church, while keeping Colham Ferry and Dark Corner precinct lines unchanged. The board tabled 228 voter challenges pending legal counsel input. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved revised Residency Affirmation Form (unanimous)
• Approved consolidating City Hall, Bishop, and North Oconee precincts with Civic Center (unanimous)
• Approved consolidating Bogart precinct with Marswood Hall precinct at St. Philothea Greek Orthodox Church (unanimous)
• Tabled 228 voter challenges until legal counsel provides more information (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on proposed updates to the Alcohol Ordinance and consider a new license for Catch 22 Garage. The meeting includes several zoning and variance requests for residential properties and the presentation of the FY24 Audit Report.

• Public hearing for proposed updates to the Alcohol Ordinance
• Rezone #P24-0115: 10 acres at Plaza Parkway & Jennings Mill Rd from R-3 to B-2
• Rezone #P24-0187: 0.68 acres at 1001 Ruth Jackson Rd from AG to OIP
• Variance #P24-0144: 56.10 acres at 3470 Greensboro Highway
• Approval of the 2025 Employee Health Insurance Plan Renewal

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners approved multiple rezonings, including changing 14.33 acres at 1660 Jennings Mill Road from R-3 to B-2 for a hotel and health fitness club. Commissioners also approved updates to the alcohol ordinance and fee schedule, denied a hardship variance for an off-site property manager at a short-term rental, and approved various board appointments and consent agenda items.

• Approved FY24 Audit Report with unmodified opinion (3-0)
• Approved Proposed Updates to the Alcohol Ordinance and FY25 Fee Schedule (3-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P24-0115 for St. Mary’s Highland Hills, Inc., 1660 Jennings Mill Road, with eight conditions (3-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P24-0187 for Brenda H. Dupree, 1001 Ruth Jackson Road, with three conditions (3-0)
• Denied Hardship Variance No. P24-0144 for The Elizabeth Price Dolvin Foundation, LLC, 3470 Greensboro Highway (3-0)
• Approved Variance No. P24-0161 for Hunter Hargrave, 1230 Oconee Forest Drive (3-0)
• Approved Variance No. P24-0164 and Variance No. P24-0213 for Michael and Theresa Heath, 1381 Hickory Hills Drive, with conditions (3-0)
• Approved new alcohol license for Catch 22 Garage at 2131 Hog Mountain Road (3-0)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will conduct the first reading and public hearing of proposed updates to the county’s alcohol ordinance. Commissioners will also discuss a protective netting project for the BSC Quad, the 2025 employee health‑insurance plan renewal, and several applications for new alcohol licenses. Additional agenda items include reviews of 2025 alcohol license renewals, the annual Flyover agreement, and various service and transportation agreements.

• First reading and public hearing of proposed updates to the Alcohol Ordinance
• Discuss BSC Quad Protective Netting Project
• Discuss 2025 Employee Health Insurance Plan Renewal
• Discuss and consider new alcohol licenses for PGPM RCH, LLC (Jennings Mill Country Club and Lane Creek Golf Club) and Maxwell MC Dinings & Hospitality, LLC
• Discuss 2025 Alcohol License Renewal Applications

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners approved three new alcohol licenses for PGPM RCH, LLC (Jennings Mill Country Club and Lane Creek Country Club) and Maxwell MC Dinings and Hospitality, LLC (Amici at the Falls). The board also held a first reading and public hearing on proposed updates to the Alcohol Ordinance, with no public comment. Several items, including the BSC Quad Protective Netting Project, 2025 Employee Health Insurance Plan renewal, and 2025 Alcohol License Renewal Applications, were placed on the consent agenda for the December 3, 2024 meeting.

• Approved new alcohol license for PGPM RCH, LLC for Jennings Mill Country Club (unanimous)
• Approved new alcohol license for PGPM RCH, LLC for Lane Creek Country Club (unanimous)
• Approved new alcohol license for Maxwell MC Dinings and Hospitality, LLC for Amici at the Falls (unanimous)
• Approved agenda for November 26, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Held first reading and public hearing on proposed Alcohol Ordinance updates; no public comment
• Placed BSC Quad Protective Netting Project bid award on consent agenda for Dec. 3
• Placed 2025 Employee Health Insurance Plan renewal with Cigna on consent agenda for Dec. 3
• Placed 2025 Alcohol License Renewal Applications on consent agenda for Dec. 3

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The Authority will meet to approve the FY25 budget and finalize terms for the Series 2024 Revenue Bonds. Members will also discuss the investment of bond funds and receive an update on the water treatment plant expansion.

• Approval of FY25 Budget
• Approval of Supplemental Bond Resolution for Revenue Bonds, Series 2024
• Extension of audit services with Rushton
• 2025 Chemical Bid Tabulation
• Election of 2025 Officers

The Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority approved its FY25 budget, the final terms for Series 2024 revenue bonds, and several related financial actions. All votes were unanimous. No other substantive decisions were made; updates on the water treatment plant expansion and operations were informational only.

• Approved September and October 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial report for period ending October 31, 2024 (unanimous)
• Approved FY25 budget (unanimous)
• Approved Supplemental Bond Resolution for final terms of Series 2024 revenue bonds (unanimous)
• Approved investment of bond funds with Stifel (unanimous)
• Approved one-year extension of audit services with Rushton (unanimous)
• Approved acceptance of low bidders for 2025 chemical providers (unanimous)
• Approved current slate of officers for 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board will hold a regular meeting, begin with a call to order, and enter an executive session. It will also set the date for the next meeting on December 10, 2024.

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors met on November 20, 2024, and unanimously approved hiring Bailey Wingrove for the Appraiser I position. The board also entered and exited executive session during the meeting. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved hiring Bailey Wingrove for Appraiser I position (unanimous)

Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board

The Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board and Walton County Water & Sewerage Authority will review the FY 2024‑25 construction budget and funding sources totaling $176,275,840. They will consider approving the final guaranteed maximum price of up to $122,026,840 for the new water treatment facility. Additional engineering proposals for the Apalachee River Intake, dam monitoring, and habitat surveys will also be considered.

• Review funding sources totaling $176,275,840, including ARPA Grant $46.2M and Walton Revenue Bond $69M
• Consider approval of final GMP for Hard Labor Creek Water Treatment Facility up to $122,026,840
• Consider approval of Jacobs Engineering services for Apalachee River Intake up to $209,539
• Consider approval of Schnabel Engineering services for post‑construction dam monitoring up to $136,000
• Consider approval of Nelson Environmental habitat survey up to $35,332.19

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Oconee County Tourism & Visitors Bureau Board will meet to approve September minutes, receive a treasurer update, and hear an executive director report. The meeting is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. at the Administrative Building in North High Shoals.

• Approval of September minutes
• Treasurer update
• Visitors Bureau Executive Director update

The Oconee County Tourism and Visitors Bureau board voted to continue its contract with AJC/Cox Media for marketing. The board also approved meeting minutes and heard updates on Welcome Center and Eagle Tavern visitor numbers, social media, merchandise sales, and events. Future 2025 meeting dates were proposed, with the next meeting set for January 14, 2025, at the William Daniells House.

• Approved September meeting minutes (none opposed)
• Approved September meeting minutes (none opposed) — second approval recorded
• Continued AJC/Cox Media contract (none opposed)
• Adjourned meeting (none opposed)

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and receive updates on park projects. The meeting includes a period for public comments.

• Park Projects updates

The Recreation Advisory Committee met and unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the September 17 meeting minutes. Staff provided updates on multiple park projects and programs, but no formal decisions were made on these items. The meeting adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 17 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will convene to approve minutes from a previous meeting and consider two rezoning proposals for residential properties.

• Approval of October 21, 2024 minutes
• Rezone #P24-0115: St. Mary's Highland Hills, INC. (R-3 to B-2)
• Rezone #P24-0187: Brenda H. Dupre (AG to OIP)

The Oconee County Planning Commission recommended approval of two rezones: Rezone #P24-0115 (St. Mary's Highland Hills, Inc.) from R-3 to B-2 on 10 acres at Plaza Parkway & Jennings Mill Rd, and Rezone #P24-0187 (Brenda H. Dupre) from AG to OIP on 0.68 acres at 1001 Ruth Jackson Rd. Both recommendations were approved unanimously (8-0) and will go to the Board of Commissioners for final decision.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0115 (R-3 to B-2, 10 acres, Plaza Parkway & Jennings Mill Rd) with 8 conditions and an amendment to Condition #8 (8-0)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0187 (AG to OIP, 0.68 acres, 1001 Ruth Jackson Rd) with 3 conditions (8-0)
• Approved minutes of October 21, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Oconee County Board of Health will meet at 3:30 p.m. on November 13, 2024. The agenda calls for reviewing minutes from the prior meeting, hearing district updates, receiving reports, and accepting public input. No specific actions or decisions are listed in the agenda.

• Call to Order
• Minutes from the last meeting
• District Updates
• Reports
• Public Input

The Oconee County Board of Health approved the previous meeting's minutes. Staff reported that a denied variance request for 1591 Lane Creek Drive is under review by the state's General Council, with a hearing scheduled for November 21, 2024. Josh Bowman presented an overview of emergency preparedness activities related to recent hurricanes and a chemical explosion. No new votes or policy changes were made.

• Approved previous meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Reported variance denial for 1591 Lane Creek Drive sent to state General Council
• Notified Board of upcoming variance hearing on Nov 21, 2024
• Presented emergency preparedness overview (no vote taken)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to conduct business, including an executive session. No specific substantive items are listed on the agenda.

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors met on November 12, 2024, and unanimously approved the October 8 minutes, a CUV release (D-02-035B), one non-disclosure application, one homestead application (A-05A-007), and the ABOS schedule. The board also received an update on upcoming Superior Court appeals. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved October 8, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved CUV Release D-02-035B (unanimous)
• Approved one non-disclosure application (unanimous)
• Approved Homestead Application A-05A-007 (unanimous)
• Approved ABOS schedule (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met to review maintenance work orders for fleet and facilities. They examined November training activities, volunteer recruitment, and training hour compliance. The meeting also covered revisions to the Standard Operating Guidelines and planning for the station’s Christmas dinner. An executive session may be held to discuss personnel matters.

• Review work orders for fleet and facilities maintenance
• Review November training schedule and volunteer recruit list
• Discuss revisions to Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG)
• Plan dates for station Christmas dinner
• Executive session to discuss personnel matters (closed)

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs meeting on November 12, 2024, was largely procedural, with no formal votes or policy decisions. Chiefs approved the previous meeting's minutes, reviewed outstanding work orders, training schedules, and volunteer training compliance, and discussed recruitment and retention ideas. A revision to Section 5.20.2 of the SOGs was noted as pending.

• Approved October 14, 2024 meeting minutes
• Reviewed outstanding work orders for Fire Rescue
• Reviewed November training schedule (10 classes plus maintenance nights)
• Reviewed Potential Firefighter and Medical Responder roster; two recruits completed assessment lab
• Reviewed October training hours
• Noted six of seven recruits completed Fall EMR Course; will do 36 hours clinical ride-alongs
• Discussed revision to SOG Section 5.20.2 (noted, not approved)
• Encouraged chiefs to contact volunteers lacking required 24 training hours by Dec 19

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission will approve the previous meeting minutes, receive a budget report, and discuss new and old business items. The meeting will also include current program updates and a report from the Executive Director. The session concludes with committee breakout reports before adjourning.

• Approval of minutes
• Budget report
• New Business discussion
• Old Business discussion
• Current Program updates & Executive Director report

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections will reconvene to certify the results of the November 5, 2024, General Special Election. The meeting includes a pre-certification session at 3:00 p.m. and a recess until 5:30 p.m. for the formal certification.

• Pre-certification of Election Results (3:00 p.m.)
• Certification of November 5, 2024, General Special Election (5:30 p.m.)
• Approval of October 1, 2024 Minutes

The Board of Elections met to review and certify the results of the November 5, 2024, General Election. Following a precertification review of ballot recaps and scanner tapes, the board voted to certify the final totals.

• Approved October 1, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Certified November 5, 2024 General Election (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will discuss and vote on several items, including a resolution to approve a contract with the Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority and updates to the county's alcohol ordinance. They will also review multiple zoning and special‑use requests, consider budget amendments for FY24, and evaluate bid awards for county projects. Additional topics include sewer policy amendments, law‑enforcement vehicle funding, and a cybersecurity grant acceptance.

• Resolution to approve the contract with Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority
• Discussion of updates to the Alcohol Ordinance
• Rezone request for 2880 Monroe Hwy (17.387 acres) from AG to R‑1
• Approval of FY24 Year End Budget Amendments
• Approval of the ACTS Building Electrical Renovation Bid Award

The Board of Commissioners approved a contract with the Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority for a $140 million bond transaction to expand the Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant. They also approved several rezones and special use permits, denied one variance for an unpermitted accessory building, and postponed another variance. A bid award for a benefit program consultant was tabled after a motion failed.

• Approved contract with Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority for $140M bond transaction (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone P24-0116 at 2880 Monroe Highway to R-1 with 7 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use P24-0155 at 1600 Black Ike Road with 2 conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use P24-0166 at 2791 Oliver Bridge Road for manufactured home with 1 condition (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone P23-0287 at 1030 Garrett Road (unanimous)
• Denied Variance P24-0160 at 1230 Oconee Forest Drive (3-1)
• Postponed Variance P24-0161 at 1230 Oconee Forest Drive to Dec 3 (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 law enforcement vehicles budget amendment up to $387,500 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss budget amendments for the current fiscal year, including a request for utility relocation costs for a Georgia Department of Transportation project. The agenda also includes items regarding court collection services, cybersecurity grants, and updates to the alcohol ordinance.

• Discuss FY24 Year End Budget Amendments
• Discuss Budget Amendment for Utility Relocation for GDOT Project 0017185
• Discuss Agreement for Court Collection Services between i3 Verticles and Oconee County Probate Court
• Discuss Updates to the Alcohol Ordinance
• Discuss Acceptance of the GEMA/Homeland Security Cybersecurity Grant

The Board of Commissioners voted to terminate the current custodial services contract with Tribond due to performance issues and approved a new contract with C&C Janitorial. The board also discussed several upcoming agenda items, including alcohol ordinance updates, budget amendments, and a cybersecurity grant, which are scheduled for further review on November 5, 2024.

• Approved agenda with addition (4-0)
• Terminated Tribond custodial contract and approved C&C Janitorial contract (4-0)
• Adjourned into Executive Session to discuss land, personnel, and litigation (4-0)

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority will consider several items at its October 28 meeting. The board will discuss and consider the transfer of the Gateway Owners Association for Gateway Park. It will also review the FY25 insurance renewal and FY24 year‑end budget amendments. Additional agenda items include setting a regular annual meeting and a possible executive session.

• Transfer of Gateway Owners Association for Gateway Park
• Ratification of FY25 insurance renewal
• FY24 year‑end budget amendments
• Set a regular annual meeting
• Executive session, if needed

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes and consider two special use permit requests for residential properties.

• Approval of September 16, 2024 minutes
• Modify conditions for Special Use #P24-0155 (1600 Black Ike Rd)
• Special Use #P24-0166 for Accessory Modular Farm Tenant Dwelling (2791 Oliver Bridge Rd)

The Oconee County Planning Commission voted unanimously to recommend approval of two special use requests. The first was a request to modify conditions of a previous special use approval for a residential property at 1600 Black Ike Rd. The second was a request for an accessory modular farm tenant dwelling at 2791 Oliver Bridge Rd. Both recommendations include staff conditions.

• Recommended approval of Special Use #P24-0155 to modify conditions of previous approval at 1600 Black Ike Rd (8-0)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P24-0166 for accessory modular farm tenant dwelling at 2791 Oliver Bridge Rd (8-0)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors will meet to discuss Current Use Value (CUV) continuations for nine properties and a CUV discussion for Curtis Dawson. The board will also review non-disclosure applications and a veteran exemption homestead approval.

• CUV continuations for properties including Felker Investment Properties, Ryan Tenney, and James & Pamela Willis
• CUV discussion for Curtis Dawson
• Non-disclosure applications
• Veteran Exemption homestead approval for A-05A-007

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved its September 10, 2024 minutes and unanimously approved nine CUV (conservation use valuation) continuations. The Board denied Curtis Dawson's request to overturn his CUVA release dated June 26, 2024. It also unanimously approved three non-disclosure applications and one homestead application (A-05A-007), received an appeal update, and expressed interest in meeting with the new county attorney on November 12 about the Walmart appeal and appeal/settlement conference procedures.

• Approved September 10, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 9 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Denied Curtis Dawson's request to overturn his June 26, 2024 CUVA release (all in favor)
• Approved 3 non-disclosure applications (unanimous)
• Approved homestead application A-05A-007 (unanimous)
• Expressed interest in meeting with new county attorney on Nov 12 re: Walmart appeal and appeal/settlement conference procedures
• Adjourned (unanimous)

Library Advisory Board

The Oconee County Library Board will meet to approve previous minutes, receive reports from branches and the Friends of the Library, and select officers for 2025. The board will also discuss art for the new Wire Park location.

• Approval of July 8, 2024, Board meeting minutes
• Reports from Bogart and Watkinsville branches
• Friends of the Library reports for Bogart and Watkinsville
• Discussion on art for the new Wire Park location
• Selection of officers for 2025

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 October training, volunteer recruit lists, and the status of the Fall EMR Course.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Status of Fall EMR Course
• Recruitment trailer signs and can trailers
• Review of members lacking training hours

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met and approved the September 10, 2024 minutes. They reviewed maintenance work orders, training schedules, and recruit rosters. Plans were announced to form a Technical Rescue team with courses beginning in January 2025, and a proposal to present fire safety skits to members and families next summer was discussed. No formal votes were taken on these plans.

• Approved September 10, 2024 meeting minutes
• Reviewed outstanding work orders for Fire Rescue
• Reviewed October training schedule (21 classes and maintenance nights)
• Noted three Firefighter recruits ready for Firefighter Assessment Lab
• Planned Technical Rescue team courses (NPQ Intro & Core, Rope Technician) starting January 2025
• Discussed presenting fire safety skits to OCFR membership and families in August 2025
• Directed chiefs to wash recruitment signs and empty Station 6 trailer
• Encouraged chiefs to contact volunteers lacking required training hours

Animal Services Meeting

The Oconee County Animal Services Advisory Board will consider approval of the July 10, 2024 meeting minutes. Board members will hear a brief update from Manager Crystal Berisko on budget, projects, ordinances, statistics, events, and other items. The agenda also includes public comment time, scheduling of future meeting dates, and any new business raised by members.

• Approval of July 10, 2024 minutes
• Public comments – limit of 5 minutes each
• Manager Crystal Berisko provides updates on budget, projects, ordinances, stats, events, and other items
• Discussion of future meeting dates
• Consideration of new business items

The board approved the July 10, 2024 minutes. The manager reported that spay/neuter prices will increase starting October 1, 2024, with a further increase planned for July 1, 2025, and a midyear budget amendment will be needed. A mandatory spay/neuter ordinance for outdoor cats was proposed and will be reviewed by the county attorney. No other formal decisions were made.

• Approved July 10, 2024 minutes (motion by Kelsey Fox, seconded by Fran Leathers)
• Spay/neuter fees increased: dogs 2-99 lbs $150, 100+ lbs $225, cats $90 (effective Oct 1, 2024)
• Spay/neuter fee for dogs to increase to $175 on July 1, 2025
• Mandatory spay/neuter for outdoor cats proposed; county attorney to review

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will hold hearings on five zoning and variance requests. The board will also consider budget amendments for the Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant and a scale replacement on 441.

• Rezone #P24-0116: 17.387 acres at 2880 Monroe Hwy from AG to R-1
• Rezone #P23-0287 and Variances #P23-0288, #P23-0289: 2.48 acres at 1030 Garrett Rd
• Variance #P24-0135: Guest house in front yard at 2480 Barnett Shoals Rd
• Change order and budget amendments for Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant Expansion Design Services
• Budget amendment for 441 Scale Replacement

The Board of Commissioners approved a variance for a guest house at 2480 Barnett Shoals Road and passed the entire consent agenda, which included courthouse and water treatment plant items. Several zoning and variance requests for 1030 Garrett Road and 2880 Monroe Highway were tabled until the November 5, 2024, meeting. The Board also recognized National 4-H Week with a proclamation.

• Approved variance for guest house at 2480 Barnett Shoals Road (4-0)
• Tabled rezone request for 2880 Monroe Highway to Nov 5 (4-0)
• Tabled three zoning/variance requests for 1030 Garrett Road to Nov 5 (4-0)
• Approved resolution for alternate courthouses (4-0)
• Approved Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant design change order (4-0)
• Approved budget amendment for 441 scale replacement (4-0)
• Approved acceptance of right-of-way deeds (4-0)
• Approved Sept 10 and Sept 24 meeting minutes (4-0)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections will discuss revisions to voter challenge procedures and hold hearings regarding specific voter challenges. The meeting also includes a Director's report on election preparations and a review of upcoming general election deadlines.

• Revision of voter challenge procedure
• Voter Challenge 21-2-230 Hearing
• Probable cause determinations for 11 voter challenges issued between 9-8-24 and 9-19-24
• Logic and Accuracy Testing report
• Review of State Election Board Rules

The Oconee County Board of Elections approved amendments to voter challenge procedures to allow administrative handling under O.C.G.A. 21-2-228 and heard a prior voter challenge. The board also evaluated probable cause for multiple voter residency challenges submitted by Victoria Cruz and Stephen Aleshire, and set dates for an upcoming challenged voters hearing and the November board certification meeting.

• Approved September 4, 2024 meeting minutes with updates
• Approved revised voter challenge procedures under O.C.G.A. 21-2-228 unanimously
• Upheld 08/27/24 voter challenge after no response from challenged voters
• Determined probable cause on 2 voters from 9-8-24 challenge (unanimous)
• Determined probable cause on 9 voters from 9-10-24 challenge (3-1 vote)
• Determined probable cause on 3 of 4 voters from 9-10-24 Stephen Aleshire challenge; found no probable cause on 1 (unanimous)
• Determined probable cause on 9 of 11 voters from 9-10-24 Stephen Aleshire challenge (unanimous)
• Set November board certification meeting for 11/8/24 at 5:30 (unanimous)

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority will hear reports on its finances, finance committee, engineering committee, and operations and management. An update on the water treatment plant expansion will be presented. The meeting includes a public comment period and may hold an executive session if needed.

• Financial Report
• Finance Committee Report
• Water Treatment Plant Expansion Update
• Engineering Committee Report
• Operations and Management Report

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a change order for the Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant Expansion Design Services and a budget amendment for the 441 Scale Replacement. The agenda also includes a resolution for alternate courthouses and the acceptance of right-of-way deeds.

• Discuss Resolution for Alternate Courthouses
• Discuss Change Order for Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant Expansion Design Services
• Discuss Budget Amendment for 441 Scale Replacement
• Discuss Acceptance of Right-of-Way Deeds to Oconee County

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners held a regular meeting with no public comment and no substantive votes. The board agreed by consensus to place four items on the October 1, 2024 consent agenda: a resolution allowing Athens-Clarke County to use the Oconee County Courthouse as an alternate venue, a change order for the Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant expansion, a budget amendment for the 441 Collection Site scale replacement, and acceptance of a right-of-way deed from Moore's Ford River Revival. The board also entered executive session for personnel matters and took no action there.

• Placed alternate courthouse resolution on Oct. 1 consent agenda (consensus)
• Placed Bear Creek Water Treatment Plant change order on Oct. 1 consent agenda (consensus)
• Placed 441 Collection Site scale replacement budget amendment on Oct. 1 consent agenda (consensus)
• Placed right-of-way deed acceptance on Oct. 1 consent agenda (consensus)
• Adjourned to executive session for personnel matters (4-0)
• No action taken in executive session

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to discuss park updates and recommendations for park trees provided by Dr. Dirr. The body will also review and approve minutes from the July 16 meeting.

• Dr. Dirr's improvements and recommendations for park trees
• General park updates

The Recreation Advisory Committee heard a report from Dr. Dirr on park tree improvements, including a $5,000 donation from him and his wife to match another $5,000 for park trees. Staff provided updates on park projects and programs. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the agenda and minutes.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved September 17 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will consider two rezoning applications for residential properties. The body will also elect officers and approve minutes from the August 19, 2024 meeting.

• Rezone #P23-0287: Request to modify conditions for 2.48 acres at 1030 Garrett Rd
• Rezone #P24-0116: Request to rezone 17.387 acres from AG to R-1 at 2880 Monroe Hwy
• Election of Officers

The Oconee County Planning Commission recommended denial of a request to modify conditions of a previous rezone for a guest house at 1030 Garrett Rd, voting 6-1. It also recommended approval of a rezoning from AG to R-1 for 17.387 acres at 2880 Monroe Hwy, subject to 7 conditions, voting 7-0. The commission also elected Chuck Hunt as chairman and Nathan Byrd as vice chairman.

• Recommended denial of Rezone #P23-0287 (modify conditions for guest house at 1030 Garrett Rd) (6-1)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0116 (AG to R-1, 17.387 acres at 2880 Monroe Hwy) with 7 conditions (7-0)
• Elected Chuck Hunt as chairman and Nathan Byrd as vice chairman (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors will approve the minutes from its August 13 meeting and discuss continuation of several CUV items. It will review a Department of Audit ratio study, consider a non‑disclosure application, and receive an update on appeals. The next meeting is scheduled for October 8, 2024.

• Approve minutes from the August 13, 2024 meeting
• Continue CUV items D-01-005D Carter, W (19.05) and C-04-065 Light Blue Shark (12.00) and C-04-065G Light Blue Shark (59.19)
• Review Department of Audit ratio study
• Consider non‑disclosure application
• Provide update on appeals

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved the August 13, 2024 minutes, three CUV continuations, one non-disclosure application, one 30-day notice, and forwarded five appeals plus two tabled parcels to the Board of Equalization. The board also reviewed the county's audit ratio study (39.54) and discussed pending appeals. All actions were approved unanimously.

• Approved August 13, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved CUV continuations for D-01-005D, C-04-065, C-04-065G (unanimous)
• Approved one non-disclosure application (unanimous)
• Approved one 30-day notice (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding five appeals plus parcels C-02G and C-02M to Board of Equalization (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will consider routine agenda items, citizen and commissioner remarks, and approve minutes from prior meetings. They will hear three zoning matters: a rezoning of 13.06 acres at 1195 Old Barnett Shoals Rd, a variance request for a private drive on 21.56 acres at 1241 Elder Road, and an appeal of a variance decision for 0.5 acres at 2362 Gober Road. The board will also consider appointments to the Recreation Advisory Board and Planning Commission, and vote on four consent items including a culvert replacement bid, farmland preservation recommendation, a Viper upgrade for the sheriff’s office, and a new alcohol license for The Village Market.

• Rezone #P24-0099: 13.06 acres at 1195 Old Barnett Shoals Rd, change from AR to AG
• Variance #P24-0101: 21.56 acres at 1241 Elder Road, modify private access drive dimensions
• Appeal #P24-0124: 0.5 acres at 2362 Gober Road, eligibility for variance on antenna towers
• Approval of Millers Lake Drive Culvert Replacement Bid Award
• Approval of Viper Upgrade for the Sheriff's Office

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners approved a rezone (P24-0099) for 1195 Old Barnett Shoals Road from AR to AG with one condition, and approved a variance (P24-0101) for 1241 Elder Road with two conditions. The board denied an appeal (P24-0124) of an administrative decision regarding screening structures at 2362 Gober Road. Appointments were made to the Recreation Advisory Board and Planning Commission, and the consent agenda was approved.

• Approved Rezone P24-0099 (AR to AG, 13.06 acres, 1195 Old Barnett Shoals Rd) with one condition (5-0)
• Approved Variance P24-0101 (private access drive, 21.56 acres, 1241 Elder Rd) with two conditions (5-0)
• Denied Appeal P24-0124 (DC Blox, 2362 Gober Rd) of administrative decision on screening (5-0)
• Appointed Richard Ashmore, Giles Moree, Dan Moore, Wesley Scott to Recreation Advisory Board (2-year terms) (5-0)
• Appointed Charles Hunt, James Staples, Colby Baker, Nathan Byrd to Planning Commission (4-year terms) (5-0)
• Approved Consent Agenda including Millers Lake Drive culvert replacement bid, Farmland Preservation Committee recommendation, Viper upgrade for Sheriff's Office, and new alcohol license for The Village Market (5-0)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Station Chiefs will approve the August meeting minutes, review maintenance work orders for fleet and facilities, and examine training topics including September training, volunteer recruitment, training hours, and the fall EMR course. They will also discuss competition results, recruitment trailer signs and can trailers, and members lacking training hours. An executive session may be held to discuss personnel matters if needed.

• Approval of August minutes
• Review of work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of September training, volunteer recruit list, and training hours
• Discussion of recruitment trailer signs and can trailers
• Executive session on personnel matters (if needed)

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met on September 10, 2024, and approved the August 12 minutes. They reviewed outstanding work orders, the September training schedule, and the Potential Firefighter and Medical Responder roster. August 2024 set a record for membership training hours at 804. The chiefs also discussed the recent line-of-duty death in Greene County and the CISM debriefing, and reminded that all non-career personnel must complete 24 annual training hours by December 19, 2024.

• Approved August 12, 2024 minutes
• Reviewed outstanding work orders for Fire Rescue
• Reviewed September training schedule (19 classes)
• Reviewed Potential Firefighter and Medical Responder roster
• Noted August 2024 training hours: 804 (record for August)
• Discussed LODD in Greene County and CISM debriefing
• Reminded chiefs to contact members lacking training hours

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The board will meet to approve previous minutes and receive updates from the Treasurer and Executive Director. The session includes a review of Google, Facebook, and Instagram statistics and a discussion on new marketing options.

• Review of Google statistics
• Review of Facebook and Instagram statistics
• Discussion of new marketing options

The Oconee County Tourism and Visitors Bureau board approved allowing staff to spend up to $10,000 per month for marketing for the next 60 days (until November 10). The board also approved the July meeting minutes and received updates on finances, KPIs, events, and marketing plans. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved up to $10,000/month marketing spend for 60 days (unanimous)
• Approved July meeting minutes (unanimous)

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission will meet 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 on current programs

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections will discuss revisions to voter challenge procedures and a specific voter challenge. The meeting also includes reports on Secretary of State training and voter registration totals.

• Revision of voter challenge procedure
• Voter Challenge 230
• Logic and Accuracy testing starting September 9, 2024
• UOCAVA ballot issuance starting September 17, 2024
• Poll Worker Training from September 17 through October 3, 2024

The Oconee County Board of Elections unanimously approved revised voter challenge procedures and found probable cause for a challenge filed by Victoria Cruz. The board also added a notary public signature line to the residency affirmation form sent to challenged voters. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved revised voter challenge procedures (unanimous)
• Determined probable cause exists for challenge filed by Victoria Cruz (unanimous)
• Added notary public signature line to residency affirmation form (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several infrastructure and licensing matters. The agenda includes reviews of a culvert replacement bid and a new alcohol license application.

• Millers Lake Drive Culvert Replacement Bid Award
• New alcohol license for The Village Market
• Farmland Preservation Committee Recommendation for FY25
• Viper Upgrade for the Sheriff's Office
• Parcel 2 Modification to the Oconee County Sewer Line Easement

The Board unanimously confirmed the 2024 tax millage levy of 14.25 mills for Oconee County Schools Maintenance and Operations, as adopted by the Board of Education. The Board also approved a sewer line easement modification for the Watkinsville Sewer Line. Several items were discussed and placed on the consent agenda for the September 10 meeting, including a culvert replacement bid, a farmland conservation easement, a 911 system upgrade, a new alcohol license, and a sewer easement modification.

• Confirmed 2024 tax millage levy of 14.25 mills for Oconee County Schools (unanimous)
• Approved sewer line easement modification for Watkinsville Sewer Line (unanimous)
• Placed Millers Lake Culvert Replacement bid award on consent agenda for Sept. 10
• Placed Farmland Preservation Committee recommendation for Rollins Farm on consent agenda
• Placed Viper 7 upgrade contract with AT&T for Sheriff's Office on consent agenda
• Placed new alcohol license for The Village Market on consent agenda

Farmland Preservation

The Farmland Preservation Committee will visit the Rollins farm and review a ranking sheet for the one ACEP-ALE application received by August 9, 2024. The committee will determine eligibility and prepare to present the highest ranked farm to the Oconee Board of Commissioners.

• Visit to the Rollins farm
• Review of ACEP-ALE application ranking sheet
• Determination of eligibility for the single applicant

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will review a request to rezone 13.06 acres of vacant land. The body will also vote on changing its meeting start time and appoint a nominating committee for officers.

• Rezone #P24-0099: Request to change 13.06 acres at 1195 Old Barnett Shoals Rd from AR to AG
• Vote to move meeting time from 7:00 PM to 6:00 PM
• Appointment of Nominating Committee for Officers

The Oconee County Planning Commission recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0099, changing 13.06 acres at 1195 Old Barnett Shoals Rd from AR to AG with one staff condition, by a 9-0 vote. The commission also voted 7-2 to move its regular meeting time from 7:00 PM to 6:00 PM. Chris Herring and Matt Elder were appointed to the Nominating Committee for Officers. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0099 (AR to AG) with 1 staff condition (9-0)
• Approved moving meeting time from 7:00 PM to 6:00 PM (7-2)
• Appointed Chris Herring and Matt Elder to Nominating Committee for Officers

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is convening for a special called meeting. The primary purpose of the session is to conduct a voter challenge hearing.

• Voter challenge hearing

The Oconee County Board of Elections held a called meeting to hear a challenge to two registered voters. The board voted unanimously to remove both voters from the rolls, citing state law O.C.G.A. 21-2-230b, after the challenger presented evidence that each had registered using a commercial address. No other business was conducted.

• Removed voter Jordan Jarry, registered at a UPS Store on Epps Bridge Parkway (unanimous)
• Removed voter Deidre Dove, registered at the Bogart USPS (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Oconee County Board of Health will review minutes from its last meeting and discuss a previously tabled variance for 1591 Lane Creek Drive. It will consider adopting Body Art Rules presented by Keli Hinson. The meeting will also include district updates, other reports, and a period for public input.

• Review minutes from the previous meeting
• Discussion of the tabling of variance for 1591 Lane Creek Drive
• Consideration of adoption of Body Art Rules (Keli Hinson)
• District updates
• Public input session

The Board of Health approved the adoption of Georgia's state body art regulations. The board also denied a variance request for a property at 1591 Lane Creek Drive due to septic soil requirements.

• Approved adoption of State Body Art Regulations (unanimous)
• Denied variance request for 1591 Lane Creek Drive (unanimous)
• Approved August 14, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board will approve the minutes from its July 9 meeting. It will review and act on multiple Common Unvalued Value (CUV) applications and continuation requests, each listed with the applicant name and dollar amount. The agenda also includes a homestead exemption approval for B-03B-002, a non‑disclosure application, appraisal denial letters, an appeal update, and scheduling the next meeting.

• Approve minutes from the July 9 meeting
• Approve CUV applications (e.g., Bagley, Joseph & Margaret $6.00; Simonton, Fred III $127.34, $15.17, $100.19)
• Approve CUV continuation items (e.g., Sailors, Peggy $14.53, $121.00; Triple C Family LP $304.05, $5.05, $10.06)
• Approve homestead exemption for property B-03B-002
• Consider non‑disclosure application and appraisal denial letters

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved minutes, conservation use valuation (CUV) applications and continuations, and SD homestead applications. They also approved 30-day notices and appeals to the Board of Equalization, with exceptions for certain parcels. The board decided to cancel the mobile assessor software membership.

• Approved July 9, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 5 CUV applications (unanimous)
• Approved 10 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved SD homestead applications B-03B-002 and C-01AF-027A (unanimous)
• Approved real and personal property 30-day notices (unanimous)
• Approved appeals to BOE except parcels C-02G and C-02M (unanimous)
• Approved 5 appeals to Hearing Officer (unanimous)
• Agreed to cancel mobile assessor software membership (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs meeting on August 12, 2024, focused on operational logistics including fleet maintenance, training schedules, and volunteer recruitment. The agenda also included a review of membership appeals and a potential executive session for personnel matters.

• Approval of July meeting minutes
• Review of truck and station maintenance work orders
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Review of appeal for membership
• Executive session for personnel matters (if needed)

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs approved a motion to allow Brian Stewart to maintain his OCFR membership, and denied a membership application from an Athens-Clarke County resident. They also reviewed work orders, training schedules, and discussed AFFF foam storage and training hour requirements.

• Approved motion to allow Brian Stewart to maintain OCFR membership (unanimous)
• Denied membership application from Athens-Clarke County resident
• Approved July 8, 2024 minutes

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections will discuss a voter challenge in new business. The Director will report on a petition verification for Kalki Yalamanchili and present voter registration totals. Upcoming election-related dates, including absentee ballot application deadlines and poll worker training, will be reviewed. An executive session may be held to address personnel matters or potential litigation.

• Voter challenge discussion (new business)
• Petition verification for Kalki Yalamanchili (Director’s Report)
• Voter registration totals (Director’s Report)
• First day to accept civilian absentee ballot applications – August 19, 2024
• Executive session to discuss personnel matters and/or potential litigation

The Board voted to dismiss 20 voter challenges due to lack of probable cause and dismissed a second set of challenges following Standard Operating Procedure. Two electors registered at commercial addresses will face a hearing at the next meeting. Kalki Yalamanchili was certified as a qualified candidate.

• Approved July 9, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved hearing for 2 electors registered at commercial addresses (unanimous)
• Dismissed 20 voter challenges due to lack of probable cause (unanimous)
• Dismissed second challenge email due to lack of probable cause (unanimous)
• Qualified Kalki Yalamanchili as a candidate based on petition verification
• Moved September 3 board meeting to September 4 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a zoning condition modification for property on Jennings Mill Road and the abandonment of rights-of-way for Hodges Mill Road. The agenda includes several consent items regarding infrastructure, public safety equipment, and a new alcohol license.

• Rezone #P24-0100: Request to modify B-2 zoning conditions for 23.92 acres at 1181 Jennings Mill Rd.
• Public hearing for the abandonment of rights-of-way of Hodges Mill Road
• Approval of Hog Mountain Road Multi-Use Path Bid Award
• Budget amendments for Fire Department thermal imagers and Courthouse fire pump system
• New alcohol license for La Laguna Express, LLC

The Board of Commissioners approved Rezone No. P24-0100, modifying conditions of a previous zoning for a 23.92-acre property at 1481 Jennings Mill Road, allowing daycare and private kindergarten uses and requiring brick or stone veneer on buildings. The board also approved the abandonment of rights-of-way on Hodges Mill Road and passed the consent agenda, which included items such as a park design contract, a road bid, and budget amendments. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Rezone No. P24-0100 with nine conditions (unanimous)
• Approved abandonment of rights-of-way on Hodges Mill Road (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including Dawson Park Phase 1 design services, Hog Mountain Road Multi-Use Path bid, budget amendments for thermal imagers and fire pump system, FEMA grant for traffic message boards, alcohol license for La Laguna Express, 2025 resurfacing application, Colham Ferry Road shoulder widening, and GEFA loan modification (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will review several contract and budget items, including design services for Dawson Park Phase 1 and a bid award for the Hog Mountain Road multi‑use path. They will consider budget amendments for fire department thermal imagers and a courthouse fire pump replacement. County‑wide matters include a FEMA matching grant for traffic message boards, a new alcohol license for La Laguna Express, LLC, and infrastructure projects such as road resurfacing and a water‑treatment plant loan modification.

• Discuss the Dawson Park Phase 1 Design Services Recommendation
• Discuss Hog Mountain Road Multi‑Use Path Bid Award
• Budget amendment for Thermal Imagers for the Fire Department
• Budget amendment to replace the Courthouse Fire Pump System
• Discuss a FEMA Matching Grant Opportunity for Traffic Message Boards

The Board of Commissioners discussed 10 items, including design contracts, road projects, equipment purchases, and an alcohol license, and unanimously agreed to place all of them on the consent agenda for the August 6, 2024 regular meeting. No formal votes were taken on these items at this meeting; final approval will occur at the next meeting. The board also announced openings on the Planning Commission and Recreational Affairs Advisory Board.

• Placed Dawson Park Phase 1 design services (Lose Design, $975,000) on consent agenda
• Placed Hog Mountain Road Multi-Use Path construction (Backbone Infrastructure LLC, $2,431,636) on consent agenda
• Placed purchase of 14 thermal imagers (Pro Fire & Tactical, LLC, $92,820) on consent agenda
• Placed courthouse fire pump replacement (Central Fire Protection, Inc., $57,375) on consent agenda
• Placed FEMA grant for six message boards ($77,154 total) on consent agenda
• Placed new alcohol license for La Laguna Express, LLC (7990 Macon Highway) on consent agenda
• Placed FY25 resurfacing and LMIG application ($8,734,377.26 total) on consent agenda
• Placed Colham Ferry Road shoulder widening project ($1,861,731.92) on consent agenda

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority will receive a financial report, an update on the water‑treatment plant expansion, and reports from the engineering committee and operations manager. It will also consider a USGS Streamflow Gaging Stations Agreement listed under other business. A 10‑minute public comment period is scheduled at the end of the meeting.

• Financial Report – Sophia Primer
• Water Treatment Plant Expansion Update – Tom Kelley
• Engineering Committee Report – Joey Leslie
• Operations and Management Report – Brad Lanning
• USGS Streamflow Gaging Stations Agreement – Chip Ferguson

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to approve the agenda and minutes, discuss athletic turf maintenance with Laserturf, and receive park updates. No decisions are listed beyond procedural items.

• Athletic Turf Maintenance – Laserturf
• Park updates

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee met July 16, 2024 and approved its agenda and the May 21 meeting minutes, both unanimously. The committee heard a presentation from Joe Peters of Laserturf on synthetic versus natural turf, received park and program updates from staff, and heard a public comment from Jeanne Barsanti about horse and bike trails at Heritage Park. No funding, contracts, or policy changes were decided; the meeting was informational and procedural.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the May 21 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 6:01 pm (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to review a request to modify zoning conditions for a property on Jennings Mill Rd. The commission will also consider the adoption of the City of Bogart Unified Development Code and citywide zoning map.

• Rezone #P24-0100: Request to modify B-2 zoning conditions for 23.92 acres at 1181 Jennings Mill Rd.
• Adoption of City of Bogart Unified Development Code (Text Amendment)
• Adoption of City of Bogart Citywide Zoning Map

The Oconee County Planning Commission recommended approval of a request to modify conditions on a previously approved B-2 zoning for 23.92 acres at 1181 Jennings Mill Rd., adding 9 staff conditions. It also recommended approval of the City of Bogart's proposed Unified Development Code and citywide zoning map, over one resident's opposition. Both items now go forward as recommendations; the minutes record no final adoption by the county or city.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0100 (Burgess Jennings Mill Land, LLC) to modify conditions of prior B-2 zoning, 23.92 acres at 1181 Jennings Mill Rd., with 9 staff conditions (9-0)
• Recommended approval of the City of Bogart Unified Development Code (text amendment) and citywide zoning map (6-3; Herring, Ferguson, Jordan opposed)
• Approved June 17, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 8:01 p.m.

Animal Services Meeting

The Oconee County Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to approve May 1, 2024 minutes and introduce new board members. Manager Crystal Berisko will provide updates regarding budget, projects, ordinances, statistics, and events.

• Vote on positions for new Advisory Board Members
• Updates from the Animal Services Manager regarding budget, projects, and ordinances
• Review of animal services statistics and events

The board approved new leadership positions and several facility improvements, including kennel doors and a key card entry system. The board also agreed to maintain four meeting dates per year and established a process for member volunteering.

• Approved May 1, 2024 minutes
• Elected Melodie Brooks as President, Fran Leathers as Vice President, and Nancy Baumann as Secretary
• Approved budget
• Approved transition of Administrative Assistant from part-time to full-time
• Approved kennel doors
• Approved door key card/code punch entry
• Agreed to keep four meeting dates per year

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will consider 2024 tax millage levies for county government and schools. The meeting includes zoning requests for properties on Julian Drive and Macon Highway. The board will also discuss abandoning a portion of the former Hodges Mill Road right-of-way.

• Rezone Lifemark Development LLC (6.0 acres) on Julian Drive from R-1 to OIP
• Rezone 23.51 acres at 7760 Macon Highway from AR to B-2
• Variances for 7760 Macon Highway regarding landscape buffers and parking
• Discussion of 2024 Tax Millage Levies for county government and schools
• Abandonment procedures for a portion of former Hodges Mill Road right-of-way

The Board approved full rollback millage rates for county government and confirmed the school levy. A commercial rezone and three variances for a Macon Highway property were approved, while a rezone request for an office development at Julian Drive and Mars Hill Road was denied.

• Denied Rezone #P24-0032 for office development at Julian Drive/Mars Hill Road (3-1)
• Approved Rezone #P24-0014 for 16-lot commercial subdivision at 7760 Macon Highway (4-0)
• Approved Variance #P24-0027 for landscape buffer reduction at 7760 Macon Highway (4-0)
• Approved Variance #P24-0028 for parking reduction at 7760 Macon Highway (4-0)
• Approved Variance #P24-0102 for private access drive lot increase at 7760 Macon Highway (4-0)
• Approved 2024 tax millage levy at 4.435 mills unincorporated and 5.375 mills incorporated (4-0)
• Confirmed 2024 school tax millage levy of 14.25 mills (4-0)
• Authorized abandonment procedures for former right of way of Hodges Mill Road (4-0)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors will review several CUV applications, continuations, and releases. The meeting also includes the approval of homestead removal letters and specific homestead SD exemptions.

• Review of CUV applications for various parcels
• Processing of CUV continuations and releases
• Approval of homestead removal letters
• Approval of homestead SD exemptions for specific parcel IDs

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved 13 conservation-use valuation (CUV) applications, continued 9 others, and released 6 more. The board also approved mailing homestead removal letters for four parcels, approved several homestead applications, and denied one exempt-property application because it was filed outside the January 1–April 1 window. Christopher Neal was appointed board secretary, and the board denied an appraisal for parcel C-01-039 based on its date.

• Approved 13 CUV applications (unanimous)
• Approved 9 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved 6 CUV releases (unanimous)
• Approved mailing homestead removal letters for parcels A-01-061, B-06D-010A, C-01I-010A, C-02-027M (unanimous)
• Approved SD homestead applications for A-011-021CA, C-03G-013D, C-01B-001B and S1 for B-02K-021D (unanimous)
• Approved one non-disclosure application (unanimous)
• Tabled one non-disclosure application pending county attorney question (unanimous)
• Denied exempt-property application for parcel B-06P-600-601 (unanimous; Kris Robinson recused)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board will consider issuing a call for a Board of Education special election and reviewing voter residency challenge correspondence. Members will also review a Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for voter challenges.

• Call for Board of Education Special Election
• Approval of voter challenge SOP
• Voter residency challenge correspondence
• Director's report on legislation changes and list maintenance

The Board of Elections issued a call for a Board of Education Special Election to occur during the November 5, 2024, General Election. The board also adopted a standard operating procedure for voter challenges and declined to hold a hearing on a specific residency challenge.

• Approved call for Board of Education Special Election on November 5, 2024 (Unanimous)
• Approved standard operating procedure for responding to voter challenges (Unanimous)
• Denied moving forward with a voter residency challenge hearing due to lack of probable cause (Unanimous)
• Approved June 6, 2024, meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Oconee County Tourism & Visitors Bureau will review May meeting minutes and welcome TJ Stephens to the board. The agenda includes a treasurer update vote and an executive director report on Google, Facebook, and Instagram statistics. The board will also discuss new marketing options.

• Approval of May minutes
• Welcome for TJ Stephens
• Treasurer update vote
• Review of Google, Facebook, and Instagram statistics
• Discussion of new marketing options

The board approved the May meeting minutes and appointed Amber Deutsch as treasurer. Staff provided performance metrics for the Welcome Center and social media, and discussed marketing for an upcoming BBQ event benefiting Bethelhaven.

• Approved May meeting minutes
• Appointed Amber Deutsch as treasurer

Library Advisory Board

The Oconee County Library Board of Trustees will review branch and regional service reports. The meeting includes updates from the Bogart and Watkinsville Friends of the Library groups and a discussion on the 2024-25 budget.

• Approval of April 8, 2024 minutes
• Reports from Bogart and Watkinsville Friends of the Library
• Discussion regarding the Art Committee for Oconee Library
• Review of the 2024-25 budget

The Oconee County Library Advisory Board approved its 2024-2025 budget option two, which includes a 3% cost-of-living increase for library staff and authorizes moving about $34,300 from reserves into the current year operating account to cover a shortfall caused by higher state health benefit and retirement contribution rates. The board also added a building emergency power topic to the agenda and referred it to staff for review, with no funding decision made. The Art Committee reported it is still reviewing art locations and funding for the Wire Park library, with a report due in October.

• Approved minutes of the April 8, 2024 board meeting as amended
• Added 'building emergency power' to the agenda (unanimous)
• Approved 2024-2025 budget option two, including a 3% staff cost-of-living increase and moving about $34,300 from reserves to the operating account
• Referred building emergency power topic to staff for review and advisement, with no new spending approved
• Adjourned the meeting; next meeting set for 4:30 p.m. Monday, October 14, 2024 at the Bogart Library

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission meeting consists primarily of procedural items and program updates. The commission will review its budget report and receive reports from the Executive Director and committees.

• Budget report
• Current Program updates & Executive Director report
• Committee Breakout/Reports

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will review fleet and facility work orders. The meeting also includes discussions regarding volunteer recruitment and training hour compliance.

• Fleet and facility work orders
• Weekly truck exercising procedures
• July training and FF1 class results
• Potential volunteer recruit list
• Updated Standard Operating Guidelines (SOG) books

Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board

The boards will review construction budgets and schedules for the water treatment facility and transmission system. They will consider awarding contracts to BM&K, Inc. for property appraisal and land acquisition services. The meeting also includes updates on the Apalachee River Intake and trapping service proposals.

• Property Appraisal Services contract award to BM&K, Inc. at $1,450 per parcel
• Land Acquisition Services contract award to BM&K, Inc. at $1,550 per parcel
• Review of Water Treatment Facility construction schedule and GEFA loan application
• Update on Finished Water Transmission System design status and easements
• Authorization for trapping services contracts at the dam site

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will consider several contract renewals, including the Public Defender Indigent Services Agreement for FY25. The agenda also includes discussions on land acquisitions for Snows Mill Road and Hwy 53 and fee sheet amendments.

• Land acquisitions for Snows Mill Road and Hwy 53
• Public Defender FY25 Indigent Services Agreement (July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025)
• Planning and Code Enforcement Fee Sheet Amendment
• Renewal of the Chamber of Commerce Memorandum of Understanding
• Contractor Agreement for Juvenile Court Legal Services

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners approved equity and merit pay adjustments for county employees and authorized $200,550 from the fund balance for land acquisitions related to the Hwy 53 at Snows Mill Roundabout project. The board also renewed a five-year memorandum of understanding with the Chamber of Commerce, approved several annual service contracts, and amended the planning and code enforcement fee schedule to comply with House Bill 461.

• Approved June 25, 2024 agenda (4-0)
• Approved employee equity adjustments of $1,000 for full-time and $500 for part-time staff, plus merit funding, requiring a $261,052 budget amendment (4-0)
• Approved five-year renewal of the Chamber of Commerce Memorandum of Understanding with $100,000 annual funding (3-0, 1 recusal)
• Approved contractor agreement for Juvenile Court Legal Services with Virginia Nell Morris Law, LLC for $30,000 annually (4-0)
• Approved Public Defender FY25 Indigent Defense Services Agreement for July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2025 (4-0)
• Approved Probation Services Contract Amendments requested by Superior Court judges (4-0)
• Approved Planning and Code Enforcement Fee Sheet Amendment to comply with House Bill 461 (4-0)
• Approved land acquisition budget amendments of $200,550 and four right-of-way contracts for the Hwy 53 at Snows Mill Roundabout project (4-0)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will review minutes from May 20, 2024. The meeting includes consideration of two new rezoning applications for vacant land.

• Rezone #P24-0014: 7760 Macon Highway from AR to B-2 (23.51 acres)
• Rezone #P24-0032: Julian Drive from R-1 to OIP (6.0 acres)

The Oconee County Planning Commission recommended approval for two rezoning applications. The first, for 23.51 acres on Macon Highway, passed with a 4-1 vote subject to seven conditions. The second, for 6.0 acres on Julian Drive, passed unanimously with ten conditions attached.

• Approved minutes from May 20, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0014 with 7 conditions (4-1 vote)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0032 with 10 conditions (5-0 vote)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board will review several CUV applications and a breach involving Donald Wingo. The agenda also includes consideration of the Freeport application for Caterpillar and updates on various appeals.

• CUV applications for Patricia Page, Ali & Pamela Almassi, and Stuart Willis
• CUV breach for Donald Wingo ($7,114.44 paid 5/28/24)
• Approval of Freeport application (Caterpillar)
• Approval of homestead applications
• Updates on the Wal-Mart appeal and other appeals

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved its May 13, 2024 minutes with two spelling corrections, approved several conservation-use (CUV) applications, continuations, a release and a breach, and approved an amended Freeport list that included Caterpillar. The board also approved a homestead application, a homestead removal letter, a non-disclosure application, and 30-day notices for 11 active appeals and 13 30-day notices as of June 10, 2024. After an executive session on personnel, the board announced Amanda Shelton as the new Chief Appraiser. The board unanimously agreed to table discussion of the Wal-Mart appeal after reading an email from the county attorney on its status.

• Approved May 13, 2024 minutes with two spelling corrections (unanimous)
• Approved five CUV applications: Page, Patricia; Almassi, Ali & Pamela (two); Willis, Stuart; Eisenmann, Leslie (unanimous)
• Approved two CUV continuations: JLE Farms, LLC and Branton, Milton (unanimous)
• Approved CUV release for Jacobs Properties (unanimous)
• Approved CUV breach for Wingo, Donald (unanimous)
• Approved amended Freeport list including Caterpillar (all in favor)
• Approved homestead application for C-04-061B and homestead removal letter for parcel B-03B-018 (all in favor)
• Approved non-disclosure application (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Station Chiefs reviewed training schedules, maintenance work orders, and draft standard operating guidelines. They approved one membership application and noted that May 2024 saw a record 782 membership training hours.

• Approved May 13, 2024 minutes
• Approved application for Don Johnson to apply for membership

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections will review minutes from May 24, 2024. The meeting includes a discussion regarding possible candidate ineligibility and reports on voter registration and audits. Upcoming dates for poll worker training were also listed.

• Approval of May 24, 2024 minutes
• Discussion of possible candidate ineligibility
• Risk Limiting Audit report
• Voter Registration report
• Poll worker training schedule

The Board determined that two Board of Education candidates, Brock Toole and Michael Ransom, are eligible to run. The decision followed a review of anti-nepotism statutes and job descriptions of the candidates' spouses. The Board also confirmed the accuracy of the May 21 General Primary results via a Risk Limiting Audit.

• Declined challenge to candidate eligibility for Brock Toole and Michael Ransom
• Approved May 24, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the adoption of the proposed FY25 budget and review the 3rd Quarter FY24 financial presentation. The agenda also includes zoning requests for properties on Moreland Way and Colham Ferry Rd.

• Rezone #P24-0056 at 1021 Moreland Way and Veterans Memorial Parkway
• Adoption of the proposed FY25 Budget
• Variance #P24-0054 at 3294 Colham Ferry Rd
• FY25 Equity and Merit Adjustments
• Change Order for Phase II Construction of Calls Creek WRF Upgrade

The Board of Commissioners adopted the FY25 General Fund and total budget and approved a contract for probation services. The board also granted a zoning change for duplexes and a variance for a manufactured home roof pitch.

• Approved FY25 General Fund budget of $40,736,394 and total budget of $76,634,635 (4-0)
• Approved probation services contract with modifications (4-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P24-0056 for 1021 Moreland Way & Veterans Parkway to R-2 with four conditions (4-0)
• Approved Variance No. P24-0054 for 3294 Colham Ferry Road with one condition (4-0)
• Appointed members to Animal Services, Keep Oconee County Beautiful, Family and Children’s Services, and Tourism boards (4-0)
• Approved HR policy amendments and Calls Creek WRF Upgrade change order via consent agenda (4-0)
• Approved OCPRD/Senior Center Custodial Services Contract and FY25 ACCG-IRMA insurance renewal via consent agenda (4-0)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is meeting to certify the results of the May 21, 2024 General Primary/Nonpartisan General Election. The board will also review minutes from the May 7 meeting.

• Certification of the May 21, 2024 General Primary/Nonpartisan General Election
• Risk Limiting Audit scheduled for May 30 at 9:00 a.m.

The Board unanimously certified the results of the May 21, 2024 General Primary and Nonpartisan General Election. The board also rescheduled its June and July meetings.

• Certified May 21, 2024 General Primary/Nonpartisan General Election (Unanimous)
• Approved May 7, 2024 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Moved June board meeting to June 6 at 5:00 p.m. (Unanimous)
• Moved July board meeting to July 9 at 5:00 p.m. (Unanimous)

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The Authority will meet to receive updates on the Water Treatment Plant expansion and review reports from the Engineering and Operations and Management committees.

• Water Treatment Plant Expansion Update
• Engineering Committee Report
• Operations and Management report
• Financial Report

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to receive park updates and conduct a walk of the Herman C. Michael Disc Golf Course.

• Walk of the HCM Disc Golf Course
• Park updates

The committee approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the March 19 meeting. Staff provided updates on park construction projects, program registrations, and improvements to the HCM Disc Golf Course.

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

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will conduct a public hearing regarding the FY25 Budget. The meeting includes discussions on personnel appointments, county contracts, and infrastructure upgrades.

• Public Hearing on the FY25 Budget
• Confirmation of Senior Center Director
• Ordinance to amend Human Resources Policies and Procedures
• Change Order for Phase II Construction of Calls Creek WRF Upgrade to 3 MGD
• FY25 ACCG-IRMA Property and Liability Insurance Renewal

The Board confirmed Christi Bittle as the Senior Center Director. Several items, including a custodial services contract and insurance renewals, were moved to the June 4 consent agenda. A public hearing was held for the proposed FY25 budget.

• Confirmed Christi Bittle as Senior Center Director (4-0)
• Approved May 21, 2024 Agenda (4-0)
• Moved HR policy amendment to June 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved Calls Creek WRE change order to June 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved $25,000 Parks and Recreation budget amendment to June 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved Tribond custodial services contract to June 4 Consent Agenda
• Moved FY25 ACCG-IRMA insurance renewal to June 4 Consent Agenda

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to approve previous minutes and review one rezoning request. The body is considering a change in land use for a vacant property.

• Rezone #P24-0056: Request by Richard Grayson to rezone 3.3835 acres at 1021 Moreland Way and Veterans Memorial Parkway from AR and M-H to R-2

The Oconee County Planning Commission recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0056 for Richard Grayson, changing 3.3835 acres at 1021 Moreland Way from AR and M-H to R-2 zoning. The recommendation passed with an 8-1 vote and includes four conditions, such as requiring public water improvements at the owner's expense and restricting siding materials. The commission also unanimously approved the minutes from the previous March 18 meeting.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0056 (8-1 vote)
• Approved minutes from March 18, 2024 meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:36 p.m.

Farmland Preservation

The committee is meeting to provide an overview of the 2024 Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) and Agricultural Land Easement (ALE). The session includes presentations from the Athens Land Trust and USDA-NRCS contacts.

• Overview of 2024 ACEP-ALE Program
• Presentation by Athens Land Trust Conservation Program Manager Dyan Holt
• Coordination with Watkinsville USDA Service Center contacts Gerald Grace and Jose Pagan

The committee approved the minutes from the April 18, 2024 meeting. Members provided an overview of the USDA-NRCS Agricultural Conservation Easement Program for Agricultural Land Easements (ACEP-ALE) and outlined the application timeline for 2024.

• Approved April 18, 2024 meeting minutes

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The board will meet to approve previous minutes and receive a bureau overview from the Executive Director. The agenda also includes a board member update.

• Approval of Minutes
• Board Member Update
• Visitors Bureau Overview-Executive Director

The board approved the March meeting minutes. The remainder of the meeting consisted of staff reports regarding visitor statistics, potential staffing changes at Eagle Tavern, and marketing updates.

• Approved March meeting minutes

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to approve the digest and the mailing of real and personal property assessments. The body will also review applications for homestead and Freeport exemptions.

• Approval of the Digest
• Approval of mailing for real and personal property assessments
• Review of Freeport and homestead applications
• CUV Continuations for 10 parcels, including Triple C and William Dolvin
• CUV Breach for John & Doris Brantley (paid 4/17/24)

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved its 2024 tax digest total of $4,225,507,730, which the minutes record as up 10.80% from 2023 ($3,813,556,070). The board also approved mailing roughly 19,000 real property notices and about 2,000 personal property notices, and approved a Freeport list and a homestead list. It unanimously approved ten CUV continuations and one CUV breach, and approved the April 9, 2024 minutes. The board went into executive session to discuss personnel and then returned to regular session before adjourning.

• Approved April 9, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 10 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved CUV breach B-09-006 Brantley, John & Doris, 22.45, 2019 (unanimous)
• Approved attached Freeport list (unanimous)
• Approved attached homestead list (unanimous)
• Approved 2024 digest total of $4,225,507,730, up 10.80% from 2023 (unanimous)
• Approved mailing ~19,000 real property and ~2,000 personal property notices (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel, then returned to regular meeting (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs are scheduled to meet on May 13, 2024. The meeting will take place at Oconee Veterans Park.

The Station Chiefs approved the minutes from the April 8, 2024 meeting. The group reviewed the May training schedule, outstanding work orders, and draft updates to Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs).

• Approved April 8, 2024 minutes

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission will meet 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 Board of Health will receive district updates and a presentation from the Health Educator. The agenda also includes a lot size variance request for 1591 Lane Creek Dr.

• Lot size variance request: 1591 Lane Creek Dr.

The Oconee County Board of Health held its regular quarterly meeting on May 8, 2024. The board approved the minutes of its February 14, 2024 meeting and confirmed a quorum of four members present in person. A requested variance from the minimum 25,500 square feet of usable soils requirement for 1591 Lane Creek Drive was tabled until the next meeting. The board also heard a presentation on the role of a Health Educator; no other substantive decisions were recorded.

• Approved minutes of the February 14, 2024 meeting (all present)
• Tabled the vote on a lot size variance for 1591 Lane Creek Drive until the next meeting (all present)
• No Old Business was recorded

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is meeting to review director reports on voting and registration. The agenda focuses on the schedule for the May 21 election and subsequent certification and audit processes.

• Review of absentee, advance voting, logic and accuracy testing, and voter registration
• May 11 Saturday Voting from 9-5
• May 13-17 Advance Voting at Oconee County Administrative Building
• May 21 Election Day
• May 24 Board meeting for certification of Election

The Board approved the minutes from the April 2 and April 16 meetings. The Director reported that Logic and Accuracy testing for equipment is complete and provided voter registration totals.

• Approved April 2, 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved April 16, 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board will hold a public hearing regarding the FY25 Budget. The agenda includes a zoning rezone request for Aiken Rd and several consent items involving law enforcement vehicles and service agreements.

• Public Hearing on the FY25 Budget
• Rezone #P24-0067: 45.685 acres on Aiken Rd
• Budget Amendment for District Attorney's Office
• FY25 Parks & Recreation Concession Services Contracts
• Additional FY24 Law Enforcement Vehicles

The Board approved a budget amendment not to exceed $87,060 to cover staffing expenses for the District Attorney’s Office after a missed grant deadline. Commissioners also approved a rezone modification for a property on Aiken Road with six conditions and passed a consent agenda including law enforcement vehicle purchases and concession contracts. The FY25 proposed budget was presented during a public hearing but not adopted.

• Approved budget amendment not to exceed $87,060 for DA Office staffing (4-0)
• Approved Rezone No. P24-0067 for Oconee County Industrial Development Authority on Aiken Road with six conditions (4-0)
• Approved FY25 Parks & Recreation concession contracts with Oconee Futbol Club and Little League (4-0)
• Approved additional FY24 law enforcement vehicles (4-0)
• Approved new alcohol license for Killer Crust Pizza, LLC (4-0)
• Approved Red Sky Service Agreement for Call Manager Upgrade Project (4-0)
• Approved North High Shoals SPLOST donation (4-0)
• Presented FY25 proposed budget of $76,834,919 total (public hearing only)

Animal Services Meeting

The Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to review minutes from February 7, 2024, and hear updates from the Manager of Animal Services. The agenda includes placeholders for reports on budget, projects, ordinances, statistics, and events.

• Approval of February 7, 2024 minutes
• Manager of Animal Services updates on budget, projects, and ordinances

The board reviewed budget requests for key card entry and new kennel doors, which are scheduled for a June consent agenda. No formal votes were taken on budget items or bylaws during the meeting.

• Tabled approval of February 7, 2024 minutes
• Discussed mandatory meeting schedule of two per year in February and July

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several service agreements and equipment purchases. Items include concession contracts for youth sports and a new alcohol license application.

• FY25 Concession Services Contracts with Oconee Futbol Club and Oconee County Little League
• Additional FY24 Law Enforcement Vehicles
• New Alcohol License for Killer Crust Pizza, LLC
• Red Sky Service Agreement for the Call Manager Upgrade Project
• GEMA/HS Matching Grant Opportunity

The Board approved the meeting agenda by a 4-0 vote. Six substantive items, including budget amendments for law enforcement vehicles and grants for emergency equipment, were discussed but tabled for a vote on the Consent Agenda at the May 7 meeting. The Board also entered and exited an executive session regarding personnel matters, during which no action was taken.

• Approved April 30 Agenda (4-0)
• Tabled Parks and Recreation concession contract renewals for May 7
• Tabled Sheriff's Office vehicle budget amendments (SPLOST $360,000; General Fund $47,160) for May 7
• Tabled Hazard Mitigation Plan grant application and budget amendment ($20,549.86 match) for May 7
• Tabled Killer Crust Pizza alcohol license request for May 7
• Tabled Red Sky CallManager service agreement for May 7
• Tabled North High Shoals SPLOST donation amendment ($43,000) for May 7
• Adjourned into Executive Session for personnel matters (4-0); no action taken

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority will meet to consider easement changes and a quitclaim deed for Gateway East Business Park. The body will also discuss the FY25 budget.

• Mutual termination of drainage easement for Gateway East Business Park
• Proposed general easements for Gateway East Business Park
• Third Amendment to the Declaration for Gateway East Business Park
• Confirmation of the Quitclaim Deed for Gateway East Business Park
• FY25 Budget discussion

Farmland Preservation

The Farmland Preservation Committee is meeting to establish timelines for submitting and reviewing ACEP-ALE applications. The body will also discuss strategies to increase landowner interest and plan a May 2024 public meeting.

• Update from Athens Land Trust on pending ACEP-ALE applications
• Establishment of ACEP-ALE application submission timeline
• Establishment of ACEP-ALE application review and ranking timeline
• Planning for May 2024 Public Meeting

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is holding a special called meeting. The body will consider revisions and updates to the public comment policy that was adopted on April 2, 2024.

• Revisions to the April 2, 2024 public comment policy

The Board of Elections approved amendments to its public comment policy and its executive session policy. These changes were made to comply with federal law and refine the language regarding public forums.

• Approved amendments to the public comment policy (unanimous)
• Approved amendments to the executive session policy (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review a large number of Current Use Value (CUV) applications for 2024 and several continuing applications from previous years. The board will also consider an exempt application for Trinity Healthcare personal property.

• Review of multiple 2024 CUV applications
• Review of CUV continuations dating from 2016 to 2023
• Exempt application for Trinity Healthcare (Personal Property)
• Discussion of Homestead removal letter
• Review of Commercial Ratios

The Board unanimously approved a large volume of Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications and continuations. The Board also approved a personal property exemption for Trinity Home Health Services and adjusted 2024 commercial ratios.

• Approved numerous 2024 CUV applications (Unanimous)
• Approved numerous CUV continuations (Unanimous)
• Approved personal property exempt application for Trinity Home Health Services (Unanimous)
• Approved mailing of homestead removal letter for B-03I-010B (Unanimous)
• Approved an additional 2% base cost increase for 2024 commercial ratios (Unanimous)
• Approved March 12, 2024 minutes (Unanimous)

Library Advisory Board

The Oconee County Library Board of Trustees will meet to discuss updates to the meeting room policy and a request for reconsideration of materials. The board will also receive reports from branch managers and the Friends of the Library.

• Request for Reconsideration of Material
• Updated Meeting Room Policy
• New Library Update
• Art Committee for Oconee Library

The Board moved two books to different age-appropriate sections following reconsideration requests. It also approved an updated meeting room policy for the Wire Park library and the liquidation of specific assets to increase interest earnings.

• Moved book 'Other Boys' from juvenile to young adult section
• Moved book 'Nick and Charlie' from young adult to adult section
• Approved updated meeting room policy for Wire Park library
• Approved redeeming a CD (.5% interest) and moving funds to GA Fund 1 (5.3% interest)
• Approved liquidating approximately $9,400 in donated Hess Oil stock and moving funds to GA Fund 1
• Approved January 8, 2024 meeting minutes

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 updated Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs).

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Review of monthly training hours
• Discussion of updated SOGs

Station Chiefs approved the March 11, 2024 minutes and reviewed the April training schedule. The group discussed equipment maintenance, personnel applications, and the review of updated Standard Operating Guidelines (SOGs).

• Approved March 11, 2024 minutes

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is meeting to review the budget, risk limiting audits, and voter registration totals. The body is coordinating a schedule of upcoming events including poll worker training and absentee ballot mailing dates.

• Review of budget and voter registration totals
• Risk Limiting Audit report
• April 11 Logic and Accuracy testing
• April 15 Poll Worker Training
• Advance Voting period from April 29 through May 17, 2024

The Board of Elections approved new policies and procedures for public comment and executive sessions, effective May 7, 2024. The board also voted to move public comment to follow the approval of minutes on future agendas.

• Approved public comment and executive session policies (unanimous)
• Approved moving public comment after the approval of minutes on the agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 15, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review several rezoning applications and a special use permit. The meeting also includes votes on a hazard mitigation plan and law enforcement equipment funding.

• Rezone #P24-0010: 4.83 acres at 5671 Hog Mountain Road from AG to AR
• Rezone #P24-0011: 23.11 acres at 2300 and 2250 New High Shoals Road from AG to AR-3
• Special Use #P24-0008: Community scale church for Fellowship Baptist Church at 1820 Rays Church Road
• Variance #P23-0282: Side yard setback reduction at 1719 Shoal Creek Way
• Approval of Hazard Mitigation Plan Update and FY24 Law Enforcement Equipment funding

The Board of Commissioners approved three land-use requests, including two rezones and a special use permit for a church expansion. The Board also approved a setback variance and several items on the consent agenda.

• Approved Rezone P24-0010 for 5671 Hog Mountain Road from AG to AR with one condition
• Approved Rezone P24-0011 for 2300 and 2250 New High Shoals Road from AG to AR-3 with four conditions
• Approved Special Use P24-0008 for Fellowship Baptist Church expansion at 1820 Rays Church Road with five conditions
• Approved Variance P23-0282 for 1719 Shoal Creek Way to reduce setback from 15 feet to 0.21 feet with two conditions
• Approved Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
• Approved additional FY24 funding for law enforcement equipment
• Approved OVP Tennis Court Expansion Project

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The authority will meet to receive financial reports and an update on the Water Treatment Plant Expansion. The session also includes reviews of operations and management.

• Water Treatment Plant Expansion update
• Financial reports
• Operations and Management review

The Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority approved the FY23 Audit Report and the February 2024 financial report. The board awarded a sludge lagoon cleanout contract to SE Diving Services and authorized two engineering task orders for the Bear Creek Water Treatment Facility.

• Approved November 15, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Financial Report for period ending February 29, 2024 (unanimous)
• Accepted FY23 Audit Report (unanimous)
• Awarded sludge lagoon cleanout contract to low bidder SE Diving Services (unanimous)
• Approved Task Order No. 1 for design changes and centralized mix system at Bear Creek Water Treatment Facility (unanimous)
• Authorized Lindsay Engineering & Consulting to conduct Water Chemistry Equilibrium Modeling at a cost not to exceed $10,000 (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Board of Health will review agency reports from the Chief Executive, Chief Clinical, and Chief Financial Officers. The meeting includes a discussion on the Advantage Community Needs Assessment.

• Advantage Community Needs Assessment report
• Approval of January 23, 2024 minutes

The Board swore in Kelly Mendiola as the new representative for Oconee County. The Board also approved the meeting agenda, previous minutes, and January/February 2024 financial reports.

• Swore in Kelly Mendiola as a board member
• Approved amended March 26, 2024 agenda (unanimous)
• Approved January 23, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved January/February 2024 financials (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss updates to the Hazard Mitigation Plan and funding for law enforcement equipment. The agenda also includes a discussion on the OVP Tennis Court Expansion Project and a library update. An executive session may be held for land acquisition, personnel, or litigation matters.

• Update on Oconee County Libraries
• Hazard Mitigation Plan Update
• FY24 Funding for Law Enforcement Equipment
• OVP Tennis Court Expansion Project

The Board approved the meeting agenda and heard updates on library policies. Three proposals regarding hazard mitigation, law enforcement equipment, and tennis court expansion were moved to the April 2 Consent Agenda by consensus.

• Approved March 26, 2024 Agenda (4-0)
• Moved Hazard Mitigation Plan update proposal ($28,800) to April 2 Consent Agenda
• Moved Law Enforcement Equipment funding request ($156,000) to April 2 Consent Agenda
• Moved OVP Tennis Court Expansion professional services contract ($202,880) to April 2 Consent Agenda

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority will meet to discuss and consider an extension and amendment to the IMI contract. The body will also review minutes from the February 23, 2024, meeting.

• Discussion and consideration of IMI Contract Extension and Amendment

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority unanimously approved an amendment to the IMI Contract of Sale, extending the inspection period to May 1, 2024, and allowing equipment storage and cleanup before closing. The Authority also unanimously approved an amendment to the Development Guidelines for Oconee Gateway. No other substantive business was conducted.

• Approved IMI Contract of Sale amendment (unanimous)
• Approved Oconee Gateway Development Guidelines amendment (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and February 23 minutes (unanimous)

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to approve the agenda and January minutes, discuss athletic turf maintenance (Laserturf), receive park updates, and handle other business. Public comments are also scheduled.

• Review and approve January 16 meeting minutes
• Discussion of Athletic Turf Maintenance - Laserturf
• Park updates

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee met on March 19, 2024, and approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from its January 16 meeting, both unanimously. The committee received updates on the FY25 Parks and Recreation budget submittal, athletic turf maintenance, park projects including Dawson Park and Heritage Park, and spring registration numbers. No substantive decisions beyond routine approvals were made; a presentation on turf maintenance by Laserturf was postponed due to illness.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the January 16 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss three land-use requests. These include two residential rezoning applications and one special use request for a church.

• Rezone #P24-0010: 4.83 acres at 5671 Hog Mountain Road from AG to AR for residential use
• Rezone #P24-0011: 23.11 acres at 2300 and 2250 New High Shoals Road from AG to AR-3 for residential use
• Special Use #P24-0008: 10.02 acres at 1820 Rays Church Road for a community scale church

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously recommended approval for two rezonings and one special use permit. The rezonings involved converting agricultural land to residential zones on Hog Mountain Road and New High Shoals Road. The special use permit allowed Fellowship Baptist Church to operate as a community-scale church on Rays Church Road.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0010 (AG to AR) with 1 condition (11-0)
• Recommended approval of Rezone #P24-0011 (AG to AR-3) with 4 conditions (11-0)
• Recommended approval of Special Use #P24-0008 for Fellowship Baptist Church with 5 conditions (11-0)
• Approved February 19, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections will meet to certify the results of the March 12, 2024 Presidential Preference Primary. The board will also review voter registration totals and discuss public comment procedures.

• Certification of the March 12, 2024 Presidential Preference Primary
• Risk Limiting Audit scheduled for March 20-21, 2024
• Poll Worker Training on April 15, 2024
• Voter Registration deadline on April 22, 2024
• Advance Voting period from April 29 through May 17, 2024

The Board of Elections unanimously certified the results of the March 12 Presidential Preference Primary, which had a 17.25% turnout. The board also approved previous meeting minutes and announced that member Doug Hammond will take a leave of absence during the election season due to his son's candidacy for the Board of Education. Additionally, the board discussed creating a public comment policy for future meetings, with Shook tasked to draft guidelines for adoption at the next meeting.

• Certified March 12 Presidential Preference Primary results (unanimous)
• Approved February 6, 2024 meeting minutes (unanimous, Davis and Jones abstained)
• Announced Doug Hammond's leave of absence during election season
• Directed Shook to develop a public comment policy for review at next meeting

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review numerous Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications and continuations. The board will also consider an exempt application for Westminster Academy and discuss ratios.

• Review of 51 CUV applications for 2024
• Review of 12 CUV continuations from 2016-2023
• Review of 3 CUV breach cases
• Exempt application for Westminster Academy (B-06W-001)
• Discussion of ratios

The Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved initial 2024 rural land value ratios, including a 15% increase for large tracts and tiered increases for smaller tracts. The board also approved numerous Current Use Valuation (CUV) applications, continuations, and breaches, alongside an exemption for Westminster Academy. Jim Luke attended his final meeting before the board adjourned.

• Approved 2024 rural land ratios: 15% increase for large tracts; 10-20% for small tracts
• Approved 50+ new CUV applications unanimously
• Approved 13 CUV continuations unanimously
• Approved 2 CUV breaches unanimously
• Approved CUV for Evans’ Preserve (Jim Luke abstained)
• Approved tax exemption for Westminster Academy
• Approved mailing of homestead removal letter for parcel B-03-051
• Approved February 13 and 20 meeting minutes

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Oconee County Tourism & Visitors Bureau will meet to conduct a budget vote for fiscal years 2024-2025. The board will also receive updates from the Director and Treasury.

• FY24-FY25 Budget Vote

The board approved the proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year. Members discussed ongoing repairs at the Eagle Tavern and the furnishing of the museum room at The William Daniel House.

• Approved January meeting minutes
• Approved proposed budget for the upcoming fiscal year
• Tabled vote on $30,000 social media contract renewal

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, driver rosters, and potential volunteer recruits. The meeting includes a potential executive session for personnel matters.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of March training and monthly training hours
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Review of driver roster
• Discussion of FF1 Course and PT Program

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission will meet to review a budget report and receive updates from the Executive Director. The agenda includes discussions on new and old business and committee reports.

• Budget report
• Executive Director report on current programs

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review two zoning requests and several consent items. Discussions include a broadband contract update and a new social media policy. The meeting also includes a proclamation for a volunteer.

• Rezone #P23-0286: 68.34 acres on Old Barnett Shoals Road from AR to AG
• Variance #P23-0184: Setback reduction for 1312 Union Church Road
• Update to Broadband Contract with Charter Spectrum
• 2024 Speed Detection Device Permit Updates
• Adoption of New Social Media Policy

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezoning request for 68.34 acres on Old Barnett Shoals Road and a setback variance for a storage structure on Union Church Road. The Board also approved a consent agenda including a broadband contract update and a new social media policy.

• Approved Rezone No. P23-0286 for Rancho Tesoros, LLC from AR to AG for 68.34 acres with one condition
• Approved Variance No. P23-0184 for Lori Kemp to reduce setbacks from 25 feet to 6 feet with three conditions
• Approved update to broadband contract with Charter Spectrum
• Approved 2024 Speed Detection Device Permit Updates
• Approved additional FY24 Resurfacing
• Approved adoption of new Social Media Policy

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss updates to the Charter Spectrum broadband contract and additional FY24 road resurfacing. The agenda also includes a review of speed detection device permits and a new social media policy.

• Update to Broadband Contract with Charter Spectrum
• 2024 Speed Detection Device Permit Updates
• Additional FY24 Resurfacing
• Adoption of New Social Media Policy
• Recognition of Oconee County Fire Rescue Explorers

The Board of Commissioners discussed several proposals but took no final action on them, instead reaching a consensus to place them on the March 5 Consent Agenda. The meeting also included a recognition of the Oconee County Fire Rescue Explorers.

• Approved February 27, 2024 Agenda (4-0)
• Moved $2.24M Charter Spectrum broadband subsidy to March 5 agenda
• Moved SR 53 speed detection permit update to March 5 agenda
• Moved Colham Ferry Road resurfacing request to March 5 agenda
• Moved new Social Media Policy to March 5 agenda

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority will meet to discuss updates to design guidelines for the Gateway Industrial Park. The meeting also includes the adoption of the agenda and approval of previous meeting minutes.

• Discussion of design guideline changes in the Gateway Industrial Park

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority held a called meeting on February 23, 2024, and approved its agenda and the minutes of its January 23, 2024 called meeting. IMI representatives Jeremy and Don Phillips presented visual proposals for modern industrial style buildings at Gateway Industrial Park, including an all-brick corporate headquarters and a metal-accented exterior for surrounding buildings, with berm and vegetation screening from highway traffic. After the IMI representatives left, the Authority discussed code requirements and exterior brick percentage, and Courtney Bernardi and Daniel Haygood led a discussion on TPA's submitted architectural plans for Gateway Industrial Park. The Authority unanimously approved those plans as submitted and then adjourned.

• Approved the meeting agenda (motion by Rick Waller, second by Courtney Bernardi)
• Approved the January 23, 2024 called meeting minutes as presented (motion by Rick Waller, second by Courtney Bernardi)
• Unanimously approved TPA's submitted architectural plans for Gateway Industrial Park (motion by Rick Waller, second by Courtney Bernardi)
• Adjourned the meeting at 10:09 a.m. (motion by John Daniell, second by Rick Waller)

Board of Tax Assessors

The agenda for this meeting consists of procedural boilerplate. No specific tax assessments, appeals, or policy items are listed for decision.

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors met on February 20, 2024, and went into executive session to discuss personnel matters before returning to its regular meeting. The board unanimously accepted the resignation of Wayne Patrick and unanimously nominated Amanda Shelton as Interim Chief Appraiser. No other business was recorded, and the board unanimously adjourned.

• Accepted resignation of Wayne Patrick (unanimous)
• Nominated Amanda Shelton as Interim Chief Appraiser (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel matters (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to review a rezoning request and approve previous meeting minutes. The primary item is a proposal to change the zoning designation for a vacant property.

• Rezone #P23-0286: Rancho Tesoros, LLC request to rezone 68.34 acres on Old Barnett Shoals Road from AR to AG

The Oconee County Planning Commission voted 9-0 to recommend approval of Rezone #P23-0286, changing 68.34 acres on Old Barnett Shoals Road from AR to AG, subject to one staff condition. The applicant, Rancho Tesoros, LLC, was represented by Justin Greer of Pittman & Greer Engineering, who spoke in favor; no one spoke in opposition. The Commission also approved its January 16, 2024 minutes with an amendment adding Ann Evans to the members present. The meeting adjourned at 7:06 p.m.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0286 (AR to AG, 68.34 acres, Old Barnett Shoals Road) with 1 staff condition (9-0)
• Approved January 16, 2024 minutes with amendment adding Ann Evans to Members Present (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:06 p.m.

Board of Health

The Board of Health will conduct an election of officers and review the FY25 Budget. The meeting also includes district updates, environmental health reports, and a presentation on PrEP.

• Election of Officers
• FY25 Budget discussion
• District Updates
• Environmental Health report
• PrEP Presentation

The Board approved the FY2025 budget and the Environmental Health fee schedule. Members also voted to maintain the current slate of officers and scheduled a public hearing for new state body art regulations.

• Approved FY2025 budget as presented (unanimous)
• Approved FY2025 Environmental Health Fee Schedule (unanimous)
• Approved May 4, 2024, as the public hearing date for new state body art regulations (unanimous)
• Approved keeping the current slate of officers the same (unanimous)
• Approved November 8, 2023, meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to approve minutes, review Current Use Value (CUV) applications, and handle CUV continuations. The body will also address CUV breaches, homestead removal letters, and budget approval.

• Review of CUV applications for various parcels, including Alexandra Farms (233.19) and Townley Family LLLP (multiple parcels)
• CUV Breach reviews for Scott & Shaun Stewart and Caroline & Jay Leslie
• Approval of homestead removal letters for parcels B-04-010C, B-05-043B, and B-07A-012A
• Budget approval
• Non-Disclosure approval

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 several personnel and equipment requests. An executive session may be held for personnel matters.

• Review of work orders for fleet and facilities
• Discussion on appointment of OCFR Chaplain
• Review of request for emergency lights and siren by Matt Nunn
• Review of appeal to drive rescue truck by Jason Toledo
• Discussion of mutual radio frequencies with Greene County

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met on February 12, 2024, and approved the January 9, 2024 minutes. After an executive session on personnel matters where no action was taken, the chiefs voted 6-1 to deny a red light permit for Matt Nunn and voted 3-4 to reject a request from Jason Toledo to drive Rescue trucks. The chiefs also concurred on appointing Pastor Larry Davison as Chaplain and agreed to swap radio frequencies with Greene County Fire Rescue.

• Approved January 9, 2024 minutes
• Denied red light permit for Matt Nunn (6-1; Wilbanks opposed)
• Failed motion to approve Jason Toledo to drive Rescue trucks (3-4)
• Concurred on appointment of Pastor Larry Davison as Chaplain
• Agreed to swap Dispatch, Operations, and TAC radio channels with Greene County Fire Rescue
• Adjourned into Executive Session on personnel matters; no action taken

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 placeholders for reports on budget, projects, ordinances, and statistics.

• Approval of October 11, 2023 minutes
• Manager of Animal Services updates regarding budget, projects, and ordinances

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is reviewing preparations for the upcoming March 12 election. The meeting includes a Director's report on budget, voter registration, and equipment testing.

• Logic and Accuracy testing
• Poll Worker Training on February 8, 12, and 13
• Advance Voting from February 19 through March 8
• Election Day on March 12 with tabulation starting at 5:30 pm
• Certification of Election meeting scheduled for March 15

The Oconee County Board of Elections approved the minutes from its January 9, 2024 meeting without corrections. The board recorded no unfinished or new business and took no substantive votes beyond approving those minutes and adjourning. Director Sharon Gregg reported that logic and accuracy testing was completed January 23 for all equipment to be used in the March 12, 2024 Presidential Preference Primary, and that the budget process has begun. She also reported 32,935 registered voters as of 01/31/24 and gave an update on absentee ballot applications.

• Approved January 9, 2024 minutes without corrections (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:13 p.m. (unanimous)
• No unfinished business and no new business were recorded
• No executive session was held

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review a rezoning request for a commercial property and discuss an EMS memorandum of understanding with St. Mary’s. The meeting includes appointments to the Board of Assessors and a community service board, as well as a second quarter FY24 financial update.

• Rezone #P23-0275: 2.84 acres at 2781 Monroe Highway and Ruth Jackson Road from AG & B-2 to B-2
• Amendment to MOU with St. Mary’s regarding EMS
• FY24 Mid-Year Budget Amendment Request
• GDOT Lighting Agreement for the SR15 roundabout at the Administrative Building
• Engineering for Heritage Park Master Plan

The Board approved a rezoning request for 2.84 acres to allow for a general retail facility. Officials also appointed members to the Board of Assessors and the Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases Board. An amendment to the EMS MOU with St. Mary’s was approved to remove an Oversight Committee due to HIPAA concerns.

• Approved Rezone No. P23-0275 for 2.84 acres at 2781 Monroe Highway and Ruth Jackson Road to B-2 Highway Business District with five conditions
• Appointed Charles Lee to a six-year term on the Oconee County Board of Assessors (April 1, 2024 – March 31, 2030)
• Appointed Kelly Mendiola to a three-year term on the Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Addictive Diseases Board (March 1, 2024 – February 28, 2027)
• Approved amendment to MOU with St. Mary’s for EMS services
• Approved FY24 Mid-Year Budget Amendment Request via consent agenda
• Approved GDOT Lighting Agreement for the SR15 roundabout at the Administrative Building via consent agenda
• Approved Engineering for Heritage Park Master Plan via consent agenda
• Approved FY2024 VOCA Grant Award Allocation via consent agenda

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to approve the agenda and enter an executive session. The session will cover land acquisition, personnel matters, and potential litigation.

• Executive session regarding land acquisition
• Executive session regarding personnel matters
• Executive session regarding potential litigation

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners met on January 30, 2024, and voted to enter executive session to discuss land acquisition, personnel matters, and litigation. The minutes state no action was taken in executive session. The board then voted to return to regular session and immediately voted to adjourn. No substantive decisions were made.

• Approved motion to enter executive session on land acquisition, personnel, and litigation (4-0)
• No action taken in executive session
• Approved motion to return to regular session (4-0)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (4-0)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss a mid-year budget amendment for FY24. The agenda includes reviews of contracts with NEGRC and various county-wide infrastructure and service agreements.

• FY24 Mid-Year Budget Amendment Request
• GDOT Lighting Agreement for the roundabout at SR15 at the Administrative Building
• Engineering for Heritage Park Master Plan
• FY23 ARPA and SFY 2024 Aging Services contract updates with NEGRC
• Amendment to MOU with St. Mary’s related to EMS

The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution supporting the Governor and General Assembly's efforts to reform mental health services. Several other items, including budget amendments and contract updates, were moved to the February 6 Consent Agenda.

• Approved resolution supporting Georgia mental health service reforms (4-0)
• Moved resolution for issuance of citations for ordinance violations to Feb 6 Consent Agenda
• Moved FY 23 ARPA contract update for Senior Recreation and Congregate Meal Program to Feb 6 Consent Agenda
• Moved SFY:2024 Aging Services contract update ($4,200 increase) to Feb 6 Consent Agenda
• Moved FY24 mid-year budget amendment request to Feb 6 Consent Agenda
• Moved renewal of Georgia Statewide Mutual Aid Agreement to Feb 6 Consent Agenda
• Moved FY24 VOCA grant award allocation of $143,475 to Feb 6 Consent Agenda
• Moved GDOT lighting agreement for SR 15 roundabout to Feb 6 Consent Agenda

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors will conduct settlement conferences regarding cases C-01-045 and C-01-045B. The board may also enter an executive session if required.

• Settlement Conference C-01-045
• Settlement Conference C-01-045B

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority will meet to elect officers and review property matters. The body is considering the release of a fee on DDS property and the conveyance of a road to the Gateway Industrial Park Property Owners Association.

• Election of officers
• Approval of fee release on DDS property
• Conveying road to the Gateway Industrial Park Property Owners Association

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority held a called meeting on January 23, 2024, and approved a resolution authorizing a release fee of $81,750.00 for 13.374 acres on Georgia Highway 316, with the Chair or Vice Chair authorized to execute closing documents and the payment going to Rintha P. Gaul, executor of Cathryn Branam. The Authority also voted to convey the road to Gateway Industrial Park to the Gateway Industrial Park Property Owners Association, contingent on the sale of TBA. The current officers — Brock Toole as Chairman, John Daniell as Vice Chair, and Courtney Bernardi as Secretary — were unanimously voted to remain in office through 2024. The agenda and the minutes of the November 16, 2023 called meeting were approved.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of November 16, 2023 called meeting (unanimous)
• Voted unanimously to keep Brock Toole as Chairman, John Daniell as Vice Chair, Courtney Bernardi as Secretary through 2024
• Approved resolution for $81,750.00 release fee and authorization to execute closing documents for 13.374 acres on Georgia Highway 316 (unanimous)
• Approved conveyance of road to Gateway Industrial Park Property Owners Association, contingent upon sale of TBA (unanimous)
• Adjourned at 11:19 a.m.

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to approve previous minutes and consider a rezoning request. The primary item is a proposal to change the zoning of a 2.84-acre commercial property.

• Rezone #P23-0275: 2781 Monroe Highway and Ruth Jackson Road (2.84 acres) from AG & B-2 to B-2

The Planning Commission recommended approval of a request to rezone 2.84 acres from AG & B-2 to B-2 for commercial use. The recommendation is subject to five staff conditions regarding design, infrastructure, and building materials.

• Recommended approval of Rezone #P23-0275 for 2781 Monroe Highway and Ruth Jackson Road (7-0)
• Approved December 11, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is meeting to call for a Special Election regarding Homestead Exemption on May 21, 2024. The board will also review polling site assessments and voter registration totals.

• Call for May 21, 2024 Special Election for Homestead Exemption
• Logic and Accuracy testing beginning January 18, 2024
• UOCAVA Absentee ballots mailing starting January 23, 2024
• Civilian Absentee ballots mailing starting February 12, 2024
• Advance Voting from February 19, 2024 through March 8, 2024

The Board of Elections unanimously approved issuing and publishing the call for a May 21, 2024, Special Election on Homestead Exemptions, with the call to be issued January 18, 2024. The board also unanimously approved the minutes from November 14, 2023, with no corrections. The director reported that all polling place site assessments are complete and ADA compliant, and that there were 32,923 registered voters as of December 31, 2023. No executive session was held.

• Approved minutes from November 14, 2023 (unanimous, no corrections)
• Approved issuing and publishing the call for the May 21, 2024 Special Election on Homestead Exemptions (unanimous); call to be issued January 18, 2024
• Adjourned at 5:30 p.m. (unanimous)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The board is meeting to review director and treasury updates. The agenda consists of procedural items.

The board approved the minutes from the September meeting. Staff provided updates on Eagle Tavern construction, digital marketing metrics, and upcoming events including a BBQ meeting and the Sweet the Street cookie crawl.

• Approved September meeting minutes

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 2024 state training and pension fund deadlines.

• Work orders for fleet and facilities
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• 2024 deadlines for state required training and pension fund
• Officer election packets
• Radio traffic protocol and MC1 response

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review Current Use Valuation (CUV) applications for 2024 and continuations from previous years. The board will also consider the approval of homestead removal letters for four specific parcels.

• Settlement Conference C-01C-006A
• CUV applications for 20 parcels including JMH Farms and Parker & Casey
• CUV continuations for Melvin Brinkley (2023) and Richard & Hilda Torrey (2016)
• Homestead removal letter approval for parcels B-01-061A, B-02K-008C, C-02j-012, and C-06-014B

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved its 2024 officers: Danny Mobley as Chairman, Kris Robinson as Vice-Chairman, and Amanda Shelton as Secretary. The board approved the December 12, 2023 minutes, heard an update on the Timothy and Lauren Wright property appeal at 1080 Briar Lakes Court, and went into executive session to discuss real estate matters. After returning to regular session, the board unanimously approved 20 Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications, denied one CUV application, approved two CUV continuations, approved homestead removal letters for four parcels, and approved a non-disclosure application.

• Approved 2024 officers: Danny Mobley Chairman, Kris Robinson Vice-Chairman, Amanda Shelton Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved December 12, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss real estate matters (unanimous)
• Approved 20 CUV applications (unanimous)
• Denied CUV application B-11-023 Sizemore, Mary Estate 27.93 (unanimous)
• Approved 2 CUV continuations: B-10-034C Brinkley, Melvin 15.07 2023 and D-02-029A Torrey, Richard & Hilda 68.29 2016 (unanimous)
• Approved homestead removal letters for B-01-061A, B-02K-008C, C-02J-012, and C-06-014B (unanimous)
• Approved a non-disclosure application (unanimous)

Library Advisory Board

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to receive reports from branch managers and the Friends of the Library. The board will discuss updates regarding the new library and the Art Committee. A request for reconsideration of material is listed under new business.

• Request for Reconsideration of Material
• New Library update
• Art Committee for Oconee Library
• Approval of October 9, 2023 meeting minutes

The Oconee County Library Board voted to retain all four books that residents had asked it to reconsider: Different Kinds of Fruit in the juvenile section, and Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me, Man O'War, and Tomboy in the young adult section. The board also approved committee assignments for three members volunteering on the Art Committee for the new Wire Park library, and approved the minutes of its October 9, 2023 meeting. Fourteen residents spoke during the public comment period on library shelving and book classification. The new Wire Park library opening is scheduled for February 3, 2024.

• Retained Different Kinds of Fruit in the juvenile section (motion by Norris, seconded by Moss-Hill)
• Retained Laura Dean Keeps Breaking Up With Me in the young adult section (motion by Moss-Hill, seconded by Norton)
• Retained Man O'War in the young adult section (motion by Moore, seconded by Craft)
• Retained Tomboy in the young adult section (motion by Craft, seconded by Moss-Hill)
• Approved Art Committee assignments for Daphne Norton, Laura Moore and Angela Moss-Hill (unanimous)
• Approved minutes of the October 9, 2023 meeting (motion by Moore, seconded by Craft)

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission will meet 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 on current programs

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors meeting consists of an executive session and the scheduling of the next meeting. No other public business items are listed on the agenda.

• Executive Session

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will consider five zoning and variance requests and discuss the FY25 Budget Submittal Plan. The meeting includes a public hearing regarding the abandonment of Hillsboro Road within North High Shoals city limits.

• Variance #P23-0234 for Parkside Property Development, LLC at 3380 Hog Mountain Road & 1078 Stillwater Way
• Variance P23-0244 for Westminster Christian Academy at 1640 New High Shoals Road & 1185 S Bishop Farms Parkway
• Rezone #P23-0219 for Chip Patterson (AG to AR) at 1210 Burr Harris Road
• Rezone #P23-0228 for Armor Homes LLC (AG to AR) at 1251 Sikes Road
• Public hearing on the proposed abandonment of Hillsboro Road inside North High Shoals

The Board of Commissioners approved several land-use variances and rezoning requests, including a contingent de-annexation of the Townley Property. The Board also authorized a $220,590 contract for fire rescue equipment and denied an alcohol license renewal for Oconee Fast Mart.

• Approved Variance P23-0234 for Parkside Promenade buffer elimination (4-0)
• Approved Variance P23-0205 for 3022 Spartan Estates Drive setback reduction (4-0)
• Approved Variance P23-0244 to waive sidewalk requirement for Westminster Christian Academy (4-0)
• Approved Rezone P23-0219 for 1210 Burr Harris Road from AG to AR (4-0)
• Approved Rezone P23-0228 for 1251 Sikes Road from AG to AR (4-0)
• Approved de-annexation of Townley Property contingent on Town of North High Shoals approval (4-0)
• Approved $220,590 contract for SCBA replacement cylinders from Municipal Emergency Services (4-0)
• Denied alcohol license renewal for Oconee Fast Mart (4-0)