Franklin County public meetings in 2025

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to conduct a special called meeting regarding litigation. The agenda includes an executive session.

• Special called meeting regarding litigation
• Executive session

The Board approved the agenda as published. It entered Executive Session at 10:31 AM and exited at 10:35 AM. A motion to request The Samuels Firm for litigation representation was carried. The meeting was adjourned at 11:00 AM.

• Approved agenda as published (all for)
• Approved motion to enter Executive Session (all for)
• Approved motion to exit Executive Session (all for)
• Approved request to use The Samuels Firm for litigation representation (all for)
• Approved motion to adjourn the meeting (all for)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will meet in a special‑called session to consider an amendment to the FY2025 budget. The agenda lists only standard procedural items besides the budget amendment. No specific dollar amounts or project details are provided.

• FY2025 Budget Amendment

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda unanimously (5‑0). They then approved FY2025 budget amendments totaling $1,994,000.00, also unanimously (5‑0). The meeting was adjourned with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved FY2025 budget amendments of $1,994,000.00 (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Franklin County Planning Commission will discuss several rezoning applications and one variance request. The body will also receive updates on five rezoning requests previously approved by the Board of Commissioners.

• RZ-2025-030: Rezone 48.66 acres at 252 Komplex Dr from Highway Business to Light Industrial
• RZ-2025-031: Rezone 2.86 acres at 2203 Grady School Rd from Agricultural General to Rural Residential
• RZ-2025-032: Rezone 11.58 acres at 932 Wilson Rd from Rural Residential to Agricultural
• V-2025-012: Variance to reduce residential front setback from 100 feet to 36.5 feet at 699 Highway 326
• C-2025-005: Conditional use permit for semi truck parking at 252 Komplex Dr (withdrawn 12/15/2025)

The Planning Commission adopted an amended agenda and approved the minutes from the September 18 and November 20 meetings. It approved rezoning applications RZ-2025-024, RZ-2025-025, RZ-2025-026, RZ-2025-027, RZ-2025-028, and RZ-2025-031. All rezoning motions carried unanimously or with a 5‑0 vote as recorded. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Adopted amended agenda (3 YES, 0 NO)
• Adopted minutes from Sep 18 and Nov 20 meetings (3 YES, 0 NO)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-024 (Board of Commissioners 5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-025 (Board of Commissioners 5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-026 (Board of Commissioners 5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-027 (Board of Commissioners 5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-028 (Board of Commissioners 5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-031 (Planning Commission 3‑0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review and approve the 2026 pre-bill digest. The body will also consider vehicle appeals and CUVA applications.

• Review and approval of 2026 Pre bill Digest
• Vehicle appeals for Walker, Dalrymple, and Haggard
• CUVA Applications
• BOE/Superior court appeals review
• Discussion on rural parcels with urban values

The Board amended the agenda to correct the personal‑property account number to 875. It approved a value increase for mobile homes and the submission of the Prebill Mobile Home digest to the Tax Commissioner. Three vehicle appeals were valued at the amounts recommended by the Board. The meeting was adjourned by motion.

• Agenda corrected to PP account #875 (motion carried, all for)
• Approved 1 S‑5 homestead application for Robert & Linda Dunkelbarger
• Valued 2011 Dodge Durango at $2,250.00 (motion carried, all for)
• Valued 2020 Ford Fusion SE at $7,075.00 (motion carried, all for)
• Valued 2013 Ford F‑150 4WD at $7,210.00 (motion carried, all for)
• Approved mobile‑home value increase and Prebill digest submission (motion carried, all for)
• Approved 1 ACO (Attachment #1)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried, all for)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners is holding a special called meeting on December 8, 2025, at 1:00 PM. The agenda is largely procedural, with the only substantive item being an executive session to discuss litigation. No votes or decisions are listed on the public agenda.

• Executive session for litigation discussion
• Special called meeting at Franklin County Justice Center, 7085 Hwy. 145, Carnesville, GA

The board amended the agenda to include legal counsel items and approved the amendment 5‑0. A motion to approve counsel for Commissioners Smith, Pulliam, Thompson and Robert Ogburn passed 3‑2, authorizing a retainer of up to $25,000. The board entered an executive session, with Chair Long recusing herself, by a 5‑0 vote. Subsequent procedural motions to sign the closed‑meeting affidavit and to adjourn were also approved unanimously.

• Agenda amendment to add Item 4b approved (5-0)
• Approval of legal counsel retainer up to $25,000 for commissioners passed (3-2)
• Enter executive session with Chair Long recused approved (5-0)
• Vice‑Chair Thompson authorized to sign closed‑meeting affidavit approved (5-0)
• Meeting adjourned approved (5-0)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registration will hold a pre-certification meeting to review election returns. This will be followed by a certification meeting to officially certify the December 2, 2025, Municipal Special Runoff and discuss the associated audit.

• Review of election returns
• Certification of the December 2, 2025 Municipal Special Runoff
• Audit for the December 2, 2025 Municipality Special Runoff

The board approved the meeting agenda unanimously. They certified the December 2, 2025 runoff election results with a 5‑0 vote. The board also decided there would be no audit of the election. Both meetings were adjourned unanimously.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0) – first meeting
• Approved meeting agenda – certification meeting (motion passed, vote not recorded)
• Certified December 2, 2025 runoff election results (5-0)
• Decided no audit of the election
• Adjourned first meeting (5-0)
• Adjourned certification meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will vote on five rezoning requests that would change agricultural parcels to rural residential or agricultural‑intensive uses. The agenda also includes renewal of an alcohol license for 2026, appointments to boards or committees, and a contract for a juvenile prosecutor. All items are listed for discussion and possible action at the December 1 regular meeting.

• RZ-2025-024: Rezone 2‑acre tract at 2556 Turkey Creek Rd from Agricultural to Rural Residential (Planning Commission 4‑0 recommendation)
• RZ-2025-025: Rezone 61.4‑acre tract at 6343 Highway 198 from Agricultural General to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses (Planning Commission 4‑0 recommendation)
• RZ-2025-026: Rezone 3.3‑acre tract at 6343 Highway 198 from Agricultural General to Rural Residential (Planning Commission 4‑0 recommendation)
• RZ-2025-027: Rezone 1.49‑acre tract at 260 Brays Lake Rd from Agricultural General to Rural Residential (Planning Commission 4‑0 recommendation)
• RZ-2025-028: Rezone 0.536‑acre tract at 334 Brays Lake Rd from Agricultural General to Rural Residential (Planning Commission 4‑0 recommendation)

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda and prior minutes, each by a 5‑0 vote. They approved five rezoning applications converting agricultural parcels to residential or poultry use, also by 5‑0 votes. Additional unanimous approvals included the 2026 alcohol license renewal, appointments of Eddie Wayne Grizzle to the Board of Assessors and Guerry Hall to the Planning and Zoning Board, and a contract with Dyal Jenkins, P.C. for the juvenile prosecutor.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes (5-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-024 to Rural Residential (5-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-025 to Agricultural Intensive (poultry) (5-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-026 to Rural Residential (5-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-027 to Rural Residential (5-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-028 to Rural Residential (5-0)
• Approved 2026 alcohol license renewal (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

At the December 1 public hearing, the Franklin County Board of Commissioners will consider five rezoning applications. Each application seeks to change the current agricultural classification to either Rural Residential or Agricultural Intensive. The Planning Commission has recommended approval for all five items with a 4‑0 vote. The board will vote on these requests after the public hearing.

• RZ-2025-024: Rezone 2.0‑acre tract at 2556 Turkey Creek Rd (District 3) from Agricultural to Rural Residential – proposed use Residential.
• RZ-2025-025: Rezone 61.4‑acre tract at 6343 Highway 198 (District 1) from Agricultural General to Agricultural Intensive – proposed use Poultry Houses.
• RZ-2025-026: Rezone 3.3‑acre tract at 6343 Highway 198 (District 1) from Agricultural General to Rural Residential – proposed use Residential.
• RZ-2025-027: Rezone 1.49‑acre tract at 260 Brays Lake Rd (District 4) from Agricultural General to Rural Residential – proposed use Residential.
• RZ-2025-028: Rezone 0.536‑acre tract at 334 Brays Lake Rd (District 4) from Agricultural General to Rural Residential – proposed use Residential.

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the agenda with a 5‑0 vote. Several rezoning applications (RZ‑2025‑024 through RZ‑2025‑028) were presented and discussed, but no vote outcome was recorded. The board then adjourned the meeting with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Discussed rezoning applications RZ-2025-024 to RZ-2025-028; no vote recorded
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet for a work session to discuss several new business items. The session includes discussions on HB 581, board and committee appointment applications, and juvenile prosecutor contact.

• Discussion of HB 581
• Discussion of Board/Committee Appointment Applications
• Discussion of Juvenile Prosecutor Contact

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved the meeting agenda. The board discussed HB 581, board and committee appointments, and a juvenile prosecutor contract, deciding to defer votes on those items to the December regular meeting. The session was then adjourned by a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Deferred HB 581 vote to December regular meeting
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission will review several rezoning applications and two variance requests. New applications include rezoning a 2‑acre parcel on 2556 Turkey Creek Rd to Rural Residential, a 61.4‑acre parcel on 6343 Highway 198 to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses, and additional Rural Residential rezones on the same Highway 198 and on Brays Lake Rd. The commission will also consider variances to reduce front‑setback requirements for a poultry house and a residential building on Highway 326.

• RZ-2025-024: Rezone 2‑acre AG to RR at 2556 Turkey Creek Rd, Carnesville
• RZ-2025-025: Rezone 61.4‑acre AG to AI at 6343 Highway 198, Carnesville – poultry houses
• RZ-2025-026: Rezone 3.3‑acre AG to RR at 6343 Highway 198, Carnesville
• V-2025-011: Variance to reduce poultry house front setback from 200 ft to 137 ft at 723 Highway 326, Carnesville
• V-2025-012: Variance to reduce residential build front setback from 100 ft to 47 ft at 699 Highway 326, Carnesville

The Franklin County Planning Commission adopted its agenda, amended the September minutes, and approved five rezoning applications covering agricultural to residential or intensive uses. All approvals passed unanimously with a 4‑0 vote. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Adopted agenda (4‑0)
• Amended September 18, 2025 minutes to note signage issue (4‑0)
• Approved RZ‑2025‑024 rezoning of 2556 Turkey Creek Rd to Rural Residential (4‑0)
• Approved RZ‑2025‑025 rezoning of 6343 Highway 198 to Agricultural Intensive (4‑0)
• Approved RZ‑2025‑026 rezoning of 6343 Highway 198 to Rural Residential (4‑0)
• Approved RZ‑2025‑027 rezoning of 260 Brays Lake Rd to Rural Residential (4‑0)
• Approved RZ‑2025‑028 rezoning of 334 Brays Lake Rd to Rural Residential (4‑0)
• Adjourned meeting (4‑0)

Board of Assessors

The Franklin County Board of Assessors will discuss a PP Account #345, review CUVA Applications/Voluntary breach 021-026 B, and consider vehicle appeals. They will also examine BOE/Superior Court appeals, hear comments on rural parcels with urban values, and sign the E/R and NOD documents.

• PP Account #345 discussion
• CUVA Applications/Voluntary breach – 021-026 B
• Vehicle appeals review
• BOE/Superior court appeals review
• Comments on rural parcels with urban values

The Board approved the minutes from 11/4/2025 and the agenda as published. It approved one CUVA Voluntary Breach form for Michael and Elizabeth Busby with an estimated penalty of $3,960.54. Five ACOs were approved (see Attachment #1). A motion to adjourn was made by Gary Farmer, seconded by Dan Stroud, and carried.

• Minutes from 11/4/2025 approved by general consent
• Agenda approved as published
• Approved CUVA Voluntary Breach form for Busby, Michael & Elizabeth (penalty $3,960.54)
• Approved five ACOs (Attachment #1)
• Motion to adjourn carried (motion by Gary Farmer, seconded by Dan Stroud)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will discuss several items, including a zoning appeal (Case A-2025-001) and an intergovernmental agreement to lease a tower site for the City of Royston. They will also hear speaker requests, consider a water meter moratorium, and review proposed changes to sewer rates. These items are listed under new business for the November 10 regular meeting.

• Appeal Case Number A-2025-001 (zoning)
• Intergovernmental Agreement for Tower Site Lease (City of Royston)
• Water Meter Moratorium
• Sewer Rates proposal
• Speaker Request: Arnold S. “Beau” Kaye – Belmont Construction

The board amended the agenda, approved prior meeting minutes, and voted 3‑2 to approve Appeal Case A‑2025‑001. It also approved a 90‑day extension of the water‑meter moratorium with a carve‑out, authorized a tower‑site lease agreement, and increased the sewer rate to $9.50 per 1,000 gallons. All other votes were unanimous.

• Amend agenda to move Item 9d before Item 9a – Approved 5‑0
• Approve October meeting minutes collectively – Approved 5‑0
• Approve Appeal Case A-2025-001 – Approved 3‑2
• Extend water meter moratorium 90 days with carve‑out – Approved 5‑0
• Approve intergovernmental agreement for tower site lease – Approved 5‑0
• Increase sewer rate to $9.50 per 1,000 gallons – Approved 5‑0
• Adjourn meeting – Approved 5‑0

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to consider an appeal by Teri Lunsford. The appeal challenges the Planning and Zoning Director's decision to deny four building permit applications based on the definition of lots of record.

• Appeal A-2025-001 regarding building permits for 7269 Sandy Cross Rd
• Appeal A-2025-001 regarding building permits for 7335 Sandy Cross Rd
• Appeal A-2025-001 regarding building permits for 1122 Highway 326
• Appeal A-2025-001 regarding building permits for 1102 Highway 326

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda with a 5‑0 vote. A zoning appeal was presented but no vote was taken on it. The board then adjourned the meeting with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved adjournment (5-0)

Board of Elections & Registration

The board approved its agenda and then certified the November 4, 2025 election results, with each motion passing unanimously (5‑0). An audit of the election was scheduled for Thursday, November 13, 2025 at 10:00 am, with Angela Whidby and Sherry Macdonald designated to attend. Both meetings were adjourned by unanimous motions.

• Agenda approved (5‑0 vote)
• Motion to adjourn carried (5‑0 vote)
• Agenda approved (vote not recorded)
• Certified November 4, 2025 election results (5‑0 vote)
• Audit scheduled for Nov 13, 2025 at 10:00 am; Angela Whidby and Sherry Macdonald to attend
• Motion to adjourn carried (5‑0 vote) in certification meeting

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review vehicle appeals and approve 2026 ABOS and NADA values. The body will also discuss CUVA applications and specific property value reviews including cell tower land and large tracts with urban land values.

• Approval of 2026 ABOS and NADA values
• Review of CUVA Applications
• BOE/Superior court appeals review
• Review of BB/Cell tower land values
• Review of house value 056-048

The Board approved the print and mail agreement with Harris Printing for the January tax return mailing. It also approved the new ABOS & NADA valuation tables for the upcoming year. Eleven ACOs were approved, and the Board instructed a correction to the house value for parcel 056-048 through the ACO process.

• Approved print and mail agreement (motion carried)
• Approved ABOS & NADA values for upcoming year (motion carried)
• Approved 11 ACOs (recorded in Attachment #1)
• Directed correction of house value for parcel 056-048 via ACO process

Board of Commissioners

The Board will hold a work session to consider several new business items. Topics include a long‑term water supply discussion, an intergovernmental agreement for a tower site lease with the City of Royston, a water‑meter moratorium, proposed changes to sewer rates, and an animal‑control ordinance. The session also includes reports from the County Manager and district commissioners.

• Long‑term water supply discussion
• Intergovernmental agreement for tower site lease (City of Royston)
• Water meter moratorium
• Sewer rates
• Animal control ordinance

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda with a 5‑0 vote. No other motions were adopted. The board then adjourned the session by a unanimous 5‑0 vote. No substantive policy decisions were recorded.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved adjournment (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review CUVA applications and vehicle appeals, as well as BOE appeals. Members will discuss land value data for S/D, BB/Cell tower sites, and large urban tracts. The Chief Appraiser will present computer replacement quotes. The agenda includes a review and signing of the E/Rand NOD.

• CUVA applications review
• Vehicle appeals review
• BOE appeals review
• Review of land values for S/D, BB/Cell tower sites, and large urban tracts
• Computer replacement quotes presentation

The Board approved the final quote from Iron Grid Networks LLC for computer replacements for the office. The minutes from 10/1/2025 were approved by general consent. The agenda was approved as published. No personal property, CUVA, or vehicle appeals were presented.

• Approved minutes from 10/1/2025 (general consent)
• Approved agenda as published
• Approved 1 ACO (Attachment #1)
• Approved final quote from Iron Grid Networks LLC for computer replacements (all for)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Franklin County Board of Elections & Registration will discuss roles for Election Day and provide announcements about the upcoming election timeline. They will note that absentee ballots will be mailed beginning October 14, 2025, and list the advanced voting periods in October. The agenda also sets Election Day for November 4, 2025, and outlines certification, audit, and possible runoff dates.

• Absentee ballots to be mailed starting October 14, 2025
• Advanced voting scheduled Oct 14‑Oct 31, 2025 (specific daily windows)
• Election Day set for November 4, 2025
• Pre‑certification and certification on November 7, 2025 at 12:30 PM
• Potential municipal runoff election on December 2, 2025 with certification on December 5, 2025

The board unanimously approved the meeting agenda. It also approved the minutes from the July 18 and July 31 meetings. The board then adjourned the session unanimously. No other substantive actions were taken.

• Agenda approved (5-0 vote)
• July 18 meeting minutes approved (5-0 vote)
• July 31 meeting minutes approved (vote not recorded)
• Session adjourned (5-0 vote)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will consider five zoning and variance requests, including three residential rezonings and two land division variances. The Planning and Zoning Commission has recommended approval for all items.

• RZ-2025-021: Rezoning 1.32 acres from RR to AG on Hunters Creek Road
• RZ-2025-022: Rezoning 4.14 acres from AG to RR on Hunters Creek Road
• RZ-2025-023: Rezoning 4.0 acres from AG to RR on Hunters Creek Road
• V-2025-009: Variance to reduce lot frontage on Turnbull Road
• V-2025-010: Variance for intrafamily land transfer near Rock Pillar Road

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda and minutes unanimously. They approved rezoning of a parcel on Hunters Creek Road, two variances, International Care and Kindness Week, purchase of 18 radios for the sheriff’s office, and a $3,000 match for a regional water‑grant letter. They denied the State Regional Water System proposal by a 4‑1 vote. All votes were recorded as shown in the minutes.

• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-021 (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2025-009 (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2025-010 (5-0)
• Approved International Care and Kindness Week (5-0)
• Approved purchase of 18 radios for Sheriff's Office (5-0)
• Approved $3,000 match and authority to sign Seed Grant letter (5-0)
• Denied State Regional Water System proposal (4-1)
• Approved agenda (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider three rezoning requests and two variance applications. All items were previously reviewed and recommended for approval by the Planning and Zoning Commission.

• RZ-2025-021: Rezoning 1.32 acres on Hunters Creek Road from Rural Residential to Agricultural
• RZ-2025-022: Rezoning 4.14 acres on Dogwood Cove from Agricultural to Rural Residential
• RZ-2025-023: Rezoning 4.0 acres north of Dogwood Cove from Agricultural to Rural Residential
• V-2025-009: Variance to reduce minimum lot frontage to 56.13 feet on Turnbull Road
• V-2025-010: Variance for George Coker to allow six lots via intrafamily land transfers near GA Hwy 326

The commissioners approved the agenda with a 5‑0 vote. No board actions were recorded on the rezoning or variance applications presented. The meeting was then adjourned with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Franklin County Board of Assessors will consider CUVA applications and a vehicle appeal from Charlena Nichole Hilley. It will also review BOE appeals, appoint a new BOA board member, and hear comments from the Chief Appraiser on 2026 ratio studies, land values, and computer replacement quotes. Additional items include review and signing of E/R and NOD documents.

• CUVA applications
• Vehicle appeal: Charlena Nichole Hilley
• BOE appeals review
• BOA board appointment
• Chief Appraiser comments: 2026 ratio studies, land values, computer replacement quotes

The Board approved the minutes from 9/3/2025 and adopted the agenda as published. It authorized several forms, approved an ArcGIS Pro upgrade, set the value of a 2013 Ford Fusion at $1,600, and accepted a quote for office computer replacements. The Board also changed upcoming meeting dates to Tuesdays and entered and exited an executive session before adjourning.

• Approved 9/3/2025 minutes (general consent)
• Approved agenda as published
• Approved three Appeal Waiver and Release forms
• Approved one CUVA Voluntary Breach form
• Approved upgrade from ArcGIS to ArcGIS Pro (motion carried)
• Approved valuation of 2013 Ford Fusion Sedan at $1,600 (motion carried)
• Approved Iron Grid Networks LLC quote for office computer replacements (motion carried)
• Changed remaining 2025 meeting dates from Wednesdays to Tuesdays

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss regional water and infrastructure grants. The meeting includes reports from the county manager and district commissioners.

• Discussion with Senator Frank Ginn regarding Regional Water
• Discussion with Tonya Powers regarding Propel Grant/Infrastructure Meeting

The board voted 5-0 to amend the agenda by adding Item 6c (Sheriff's Office radios) and Item 6d (Executive Session). A motion to enter Executive Session was approved 5-0, followed by a 4-0 vote to return to the regular meeting. The meeting was then adjourned by a 4-0 vote. Commissioner Smith approved moving forward with the purchase of 18 new Sheriff radios at the next regular meeting.

• Agenda amendment adding Item 6c and 6d approved (5-0)
• Motion to enter Executive Session approved (5-0)
• Motion to re-enter regular meeting approved (4-0)
• Motion to adjourn approved (4-0)
• Commissioner Smith approved proceeding with purchase of 18 Sheriff radios at next regular meeting

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission will discuss several rezoning applications and variance requests. The agenda also includes an update on the Board of Commissioners' recent actions on zoning matters.

• Update on Board of Commissioners' zoning votes (RZ-2025-018, RZ-2025-019, RZ-2025-020)
• RZ-2025-021: Wonder Stag LLC seeks to rezone 1.32 acres from RR to AG on Hunters Creek Road
• RZ-2025-022: Wonder Stag LLC seeks to rezone 4.14 acres from AG to RR on Dogwood Cove
• V-2025-009: Holly and Wayne Elrod seek a variance to reduce lot frontage on Turnbull Road
• V-2025-010: George Coker seeks a variance for intrafamily land transfer near Georgia Highway 326

The commission unanimously approved rezoning applications RZ-2025-021, RZ-2025-022, and RZ-2025-023 for Wonder Stag LLC. It also approved variance V-2025-009 with a 4‑0 vote. Variance V-2025-010 was approved by a 3‑1 vote. All other motions were procedural.

• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-021 (4-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-022 (4-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-023 (4-0)
• Approved variance V-2025-009 (4-0)
• Approved variance V-2025-010 (3-1)
• Adopted agenda (4-0)
• Adopted minutes from Aug 21, 2025 (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will review three rezoning applications, including a request for a fire department building. The board will also discuss a budget amendment for libraries and a hazard mitigation plan.

• RZ-2025-018: Rezone 2.0 acres at 521 Clareburn Tr from Agricultural to Rural Residential
• RZ-2025-019: Rezone 1.0 acre at 44 Bold Springs Church Rd from Agricultural to Institutional for a Fire Department Building
• RZ-2025-020: Rezone 2.0 acres at 521 Clareburn Tr from Agricultural to Rural Residential
• Budget Amendment Resolution for Franklin County Libraries
• Hazard Mitigation Plan 2024-2029

The board amended the agenda, approved the meeting minutes, denied two agricultural‑to‑rural‑residential rezoning requests and approved one agricultural‑to‑institutional rezoning. It also approved a $20,834.91 amendment to the Franklin County Libraries budget, reappointed a member to the Recreation Committee, and adopted the 2024‑2029 Hazard Mitigation Plan. Personnel appointments for the Elections Board and staff were announced, and the board entered and exited executive session before adjourning.

• Amended agenda to move Item 9d to October meeting (5-0 approved)
• Approved meeting minutes collectively (5-0 approved)
• Denied rezoning RZ-2025-018 lot 1 (5-0 denied)
• Denied rezoning RZ-2025-020 lot 2 (5-0 denied)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-019 Institutional fire department (5-0 approved)
• Approved $20,834.91 amendment to Franklin County Libraries budget (5-0 approved)
• Approved reappointment of Wesley Varner to Recreation Committee (5-0 approved)
• Approved 2024‑2029 Hazard Mitigation Plan (5-0 approved)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider three zoning applications in District 1. These include two requests for residential use and one for a fire department building.

• RZ-2025-018: Rezone 2.0 acres at 521 Clareburn Tr from Agricultural to Rural Residential (lot 1)
• RZ-2025-019: Rezone 1.0 acre at 44 Bold Springs Church Rd from Agricultural to Institutional for a Fire Department Building
• RZ-2025-020: Rezone 2.0 acres at 521 Clareburn Tr from Agricultural to Rural Residential (lot 2)

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda by a 5-0 vote. The board then adjourned the meeting by a 5-0 vote. No board votes were recorded on the three rezoning applications; only the Planning Commission recommendations (denial for two and approval for one) were noted.

• Agenda approved (5-0)
• Meeting adjourned (5-0)
• Rezoning applications RZ-2025-018, RZ-2025-019, RZ-2025-020 – no board decision recorded

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review CUVA applications and vehicle appeals. The board will also review and certify BOE appeals to the Appeal Administrator. The meeting includes a report on the mailing of 2025 tax bills.

• CUVA Applications
• Vehicle Appeals
• 2025 Tax Bills mailing status
• BOE appeals review and certification
• Timber review for Mike Cress

Board of Assessors

The Board approved an appeal waiver and release form for Stephen & Susan Pfeiffer. It valued a 2002 Chevrolet Trail Blazer at $1,082 and a 2004 Peterbilt Dump Truck at $39,000. The Board also approved and sent the list of real and personal property appeals to the Board of Equalization. All motions were seconded and carried.

• Approved Appeal Waiver and Release form for Stephen & Susan Pfeiffer (motion carried)
• Valued 2002 Chevrolet Trail Blazer at $1,082 (motion carried)
• Valued 2004 Peterbilt Dump Truck at $39,000 (motion carried)
• Approved 11 ACOs (motion carried)
• Approved and forwarded list of real and personal property appeals to the BOE (motion carried)
• Adopted minutes from 8/20/2025 by general consent
• Approved agenda as published
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to review a proposed amended budget for county libraries. The board will also hold a discussion regarding impact fees.

• Proposed Amended Budget: Franklin County Libraries
• Discussion on Impact Fees

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Franklin County Planning and Zoning Commission will review updates on recent Board of Commissioners actions and consider five new rezoning applications. Items include requests to change zoning for agricultural land to residential, institutional, and commercial uses, as well as a conditional use permit for a cell tower.

• RZ-2025-018 Rezone 2-acre tract at 521 Clareburn Tr to Rural Residential for residential use
• RZ-2025-019 Rezone 1-acre tract at 44 Bold Springs Church Rd to Institutional for fire department building
• RZ-2025-020 Rezone 2-acre tract at 521 Clareburn Tr to Rural Residential for residential use (lot 2)
• C-2025-002 Conditional use for wireless telecommunication facility on Highway 326 Carnesville
• RZ-2025-015 Rezone 80.11-acre tract at 837 Muddy Branch Rd to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses

The commission adopted an amended agenda and adopted the July 17 minutes, both unanimously. It denied two agricultural‑to‑rural residential rezoning applications (RZ-2025-018 and RZ-2025-020) by 3‑1 votes. It approved the rezoning of a 1‑acre parcel for a fire department building (RZ-2025-019) by a 4‑0 vote.

• Adopt amended agenda (4‑0)
• Adopt July 17 minutes (4‑0)
• Deny RZ-2025-018 rezone (3‑1)
• Deny RZ-2025-020 rezone (3‑1)
• Approve RZ-2025-019 rezone for fire department (4‑0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review the 2025 Digest and handle vehicle appeals. The body will also address CUVA applications and a formal audit schedule.

• 2025 Digest discussion
• CUVA applications and removals
• Vehicle appeals
• Formal audit schedule
• Review and signing of E/R and NOD

The Board approved the 2026 Formal Audit List and accepted a CUVA release for Bret Allen Wilkinson's 7.18 acres with no penalty. It also valued three vehicle appeals at $28,775, $25,625, and $62,425 respectively, and approved 20 ACO corrections. The Board agreed to forward a late appeal to the Board of Equalization for review and adjourned the meeting.

• Accepted 2026 Formal Audit List (motion carried)
• Approved CUVA Release for Bret Allen Wilkinson, 7.18 acres, no penalty
• Valued 2006 International 7000 at $28,775 (motion carried)
• Valued 2014 International 7000 at $25,625 (motion carried)
• Valued 2023 Ford F-450 4WD Crew cab at $62,425 (motion carried)
• Approved 20 ACO corrections (Attachment #2)
• Agreed to forward late appeal to Board of Equalization for review
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to adopt the 2025 millage rate. This rate determines the property tax levy for the county.

• Adoption of the 2025 Millage Rate

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda, adopted the 2025 county millage rate of 8.364, approved the Board of Education's 2025 millage rate of 14 mills, and then adjourned. All motions passed unanimously with a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adopted 2025 county millage rate of 8.364 (5-0)
• Approved Board of Education 2025 millage rate of 14 mills (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to discuss the 2025 millage rate. This meeting is dedicated to the millage rate process.

• Public hearing regarding the 2025 Millage Rate

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda with a 5-0 vote and later adjourned the meeting with a 5-0 vote. No vote was recorded on the proposed 2025 millage rate of 8.364 mills. No other actions were taken.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss 2025 digest appeals and vehicle appeals. The body will also review CUVA applications and audit results.

• Review of 2025 Digest appeals
• Homestead removal 009-020
• CUVA Applications
• Vehicle Appeals
• Audit results

The Board approved the minutes from July 23, 2025 and the agenda. It accepted the TBS Audit Results, removed a Homestead exemption, and approved two Appeal Waiver & Release forms. The Board also set values for two vehicle appeals and approved six ACOs and the latest personal‑property value changes and notices.

• Approved minutes from 7/23/2025 (general consent)
• Accepted TBS Audit Results (motion carried)
• Approved removal of Homestead (motion carried)
• Approved Appeal Waiver & Release forms for Gallagher, James L and Hodge Investment Partners LLLP (motion carried)
• Valued 2013 Ford Fusion at $2,800 (motion carried)
• Valued 2011 Ford F‑150 4WD at $5,000 (motion carried)
• Approved six ACOs (motion carried)
• Accepted 2025 personal‑property value changes and fourth set of 30‑day notices (motion carried)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will review three land-use applications and discuss several new business items. The board is deciding on rezoning requests for poultry houses and a billiard hall, as well as a conditional use permit for a cell tower.

• RZ-2025-015: Rezone 80.11 acres at 837 Muddy Branch Rd from Agricultural General to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses
• RZ-2025-017: Rezone 1.0 acre at 371 Brogdon Cir from Rural Residential to Highway Business for a pool/billiard hall
• C-2025-002: Conditional use for a cell tower on Highway 326
• South Franklin Elementary School Speed Zone Ordinance
• 90-day extension of the Water Meter Moratorium

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda and minutes unanimously. They approved three land‑use applications: rezoning 80‑acre for poultry houses with a 100‑ft driveway condition, rezoning 1‑acre to highway business, and a conditional use for a cell tower. The board also approved funding for an ARPA audio‑visual upgrade ($174,113.97), a 45‑mph school speed zone, purchases of a motor grader and dump truck, and a 90‑day water‑meter moratorium extension.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes (5-0)
• Approved rezoning 80‑acre poultry house tract with 100‑ft driveway condition (5-0)
• Approved rezoning 1‑acre to highway business (5-0)
• Approved conditional use for cell tower (5-0)
• Approved $174,113.97 ARPA audio‑visual equipment project (5-0)
• Approved 45‑mph speed zone ordinance for South Franklin Elementary (5-0)
• Approved motor grader purchase ($259,900) and dump truck purchase ($228,974) (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing to review three land use applications. All three items received recommended approval from the Planning Commission.

• Rezone of 80.11 acres at 837 Muddy Branch Rd. from Agricultural General to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses
• Rezone of 1.0 acre at 371 Brogdon Cir. from Rural Residential to Highway Business for a pool/billiard hall
• Conditional use request for a cell tower on a 61.67-acre tract on Highway 326

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the meeting agenda by a 5-0 vote. No motions or votes were recorded on the three zoning applications presented during the public hearing. The meeting was adjourned by a 5-0 vote.

• Agenda approval – motion carried 5-0
• Adjournment – motion carried 5-0
• RZ-2025-015 rezone application – no board vote recorded
• RZ-2025-017 rezone application – no board vote recorded
• C-2025-002 conditional use application – no board vote recorded

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections & Registration will meet for a special called session. The agenda consists of procedural items and an executive session to discuss personnel and possible litigation.

• Executive session regarding personnel
• Executive session regarding possible litigation

The Board approved its agenda, entered and later exited an executive session on personnel and possible litigation, appointed Angela Whidby as interim Chair, and then adjourned. All motions passed unanimously with a 4-0 vote.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Entered executive session on personnel and possible litigation (4-0)
• Exited executive session (4-0)
• Appointed Angela Whidby as interim Chair (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing to discuss the 2025 millage rate. This meeting focuses on the tax rate used to calculate property taxes for the county.

• Public hearing regarding the 2025 Millage Rate

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda with a 4-0 vote. They corrected an earlier error and adopted the 2025 millage rate at 8.364, including the 0.25 IBA component. The meeting was then adjourned by a 4-0 vote.

• Approved agenda (4-0)
• Adopted 2025 millage rate of 8.364
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to establish the 2025 millage rate. Chair Long stated the rate will be set at 8.365.

• 2025 Millage Rate set at 8.365

The Board approved the meeting agenda by a 4-0 vote. Commissioners set the 2025 millage rate at 8.365 and scheduled an additional public hearing at 6:00 PM. The meeting was adjourned by a 4-0 vote.

• Agenda approved (4-0)
• 2025 millage rate set at 8.365 (no vote recorded)
• Meeting adjourned (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to review several new business items. The meeting includes discussions on equipment modernization and potential ordinance changes.

• ARPA Audio-Visual Equipment Modernization Project
• South Franklin Elementary School Speed Zone Ordinance
• Motor Grader and Dump Truck Purchase
• Draft Animal Control Ordinance discussion
• Water Moratorium extension discussion

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the meeting agenda. Later, the board voted 4-0 to adjourn the work session. No other actions were decided during this meeting.

• Agenda approved (4-0)
• Meeting adjourned (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is holding a special called meeting to review 2025 appeals and 30 days' notice of assessments.

• Review of 2025 Appeals
• Review of 30 Days’ Notice of Assessments

The Board approved the prior meeting minutes and the agenda as published. It approved one homestead application and denied another, and approved three Appeal Waiver & Release forms. The Board valued a 2011 Toyota Camry at $364 and approved one ACO. It also accepted the 2025 property value changes and the third set of 30‑day notices for real and personal property.

• Approved minutes from 7/16/2025 (general consent)
• Approved agenda as published
• Approved 1 homestead application; denied 1
• Approved 3 Appeal Waiver & Release forms (4626 Vickery St. LLC; Brown, Michael A & Carolyn F; GRP Franklin LLC)
• Valued 2011 Toyota Camry at $364 (motion carried)
• Approved 1 ACO (Attachment #1)
• Accepted 2025 value changes and third set of 30‑day notices (motion carried)
• Adjourned meeting (motion carried)

Board of Elections & Registration

The board approved an amended agenda with a 5‑0 vote. It also approved the minutes from the July 15, 2025 meeting with a 5‑0 vote. The July 15, 2025 election was certified. No other actions were decided; remaining items were discussed or scheduled.

• Approved amended agenda (5-0)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (5-0)
• Certified July 15, 2025 election

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission will review three new applications regarding land use changes for poultry houses, a commercial recreational facility, and a cell tower. The body will also receive updates on several previous Board of Commissioners votes regarding variances and rezonings.

• RZ-2025-015: Proposed rezone of 80.11 acres at 837 Muddy Branch Rd to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses
• RZ-2025-017: Proposed rezone of 1.0 acre at 371 Brogdon Cir to Highway Business for a pool/billiard hall
• C-2025-002: Conditional use application for a cell tower on 61.67 acres at Highway 326
• BOC Update: Denial of pet crematory rezone and conditional use at Rose Conley Rd
• BOC Update: Approval of rezonings for poultry houses at 1142 Pullian Rd and 2371 North Fairview Rd

The Planning and Zoning Commission adopted the agenda and minutes, then voted on a series of applications. Four requests were denied, including a variance for a manufactured home and rezoning for a pet crematory. Eight applications—including rezones for residential, poultry, and a cell tower—were approved, each by unanimous or 4‑0 votes.

• Denied variance V-2025-004 for a manufactured home at 173 Saint Michael Dr (5‑0)
• Denied rezoning RZ-2025-007 for a pet crematory on Rose Conley Rd (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-010 for 165 Unawatti Rd Canon (5‑0)
• Approved variance V-2025-007 for 165 Unawatti Rd Canon (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-012 for 1142 Pullian Rd Martin (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-014 for 2371 North Fairview Rd Lavonia (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-015 for 837 Muddy Branch Rd Canon (4‑0)
• Approved conditional use C-2025-002 for a cell tower on Highway 326 (4‑0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to review 2025 digest appeals and homesteads. The body will also consider vehicle appeals and CUVA applications.

• CUVA Applications
• Vehicle Appeals
• 2025 Digest appeals and Homesteads
• Review and signing of E/R and NOD

The Board approved the TBS audit results and a slate of property applications, including 17 CUVA applications, 30 homestead applications, and four appeal waiver and release forms. It also valued four vehicle appeals at amounts ranging from $900 to $8,000. The Board accepted the 2025 value changes and the second set of 30‑day notices for real and personal property and ordered updated notices to be sent. Additionally, seven ACOs were approved.

• Approved TBS audit results (motion carried)
• Approved 17 CUVA applications (motion carried)
• Approved 30 Homestead applications (motion carried)
• Approved 4 Appeal Waiver & Release forms (motion carried)
• Valued 2002 Ford F‑150 at $900 (motion carried)
• Valued 2007 Chevrolet Silverado 2500HD 4x4 at $1,300 (motion carried)
• Accepted 2025 value changes and second set of 30‑day notices; ordered updated NOAs (motion carried)
• Approved 7 ACOs (motion carried)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet to discuss new business regarding the upcoming runoff election. The agenda is primarily procedural with no old business or minutes for approval.

• Discussion of jobs for the runoff election

The board approved the agenda after a motion by Angela Whidby and a second by Rosemary Jackson. The minutes from the prior meeting were scheduled for approval at the July 18 meeting. New business noted that election‑night staffing for July 15 will be the same as June 17. The meeting was adjourned by motion.

• Agenda approved (motion passed)
• Prior meeting minutes scheduled for approval on July 18
• Election‑night staffing for July 15 set same as June 17
• Meeting adjourned (motion passed)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several zoning changes, including requests for residential and poultry house uses. The body is also considering intergovernmental agreements with three cities regarding tax collection and assessment.

• Rezone request for a pet crematory on Rose Conley Rd
• Rezone requests for residential use at 165 Unawatti Rd, 199 Unawatti Rd, and 2251 Cole Rd
• Rezone requests for poultry houses at 1142 Pullian Rd and 2371 North Fairview Rd
• Tax digest and collection agreements with the cities of Franklin Springs, Carnesville, and Lavonia
• Mutual aid agreement with Stephens County

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners denied a variance for a manufactured home at 173 Saint Michael Dr and denied a rezoning for a pet crematory on Rose Conley Rd, each by a 5‑0 vote. It approved several rezoning applications for residential and agricultural uses, including properties on Unawatti Rd, Pullian Rd, Cole Rd, and North Fairview Rd, all by 5‑0 votes. The board also approved the appointment to the Joint Development Authority and intergovernmental agreements with three cities and a mutual‑aid pact with Stephens County.

• Denied variance for manufactured home at 173 Saint Michael Dr (5‑0)
• Denied rezoning for pet crematory on Rose Conley Rd (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 165 Unawatti Rd to Rural Residential with uniform‑house condition (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 199 Unawatti Rd to Rural Residential (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 1142 Pullian Rd to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 2251 Cole Rd to Rural Residential (5‑0)
• Approved rezoning of 2371 North Fairview Rd to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses (5‑0)
• Approved joint development authority appointment and intergovernmental agreements with three cities and mutual‑aid pact with Stephens County (5‑0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider several rezoning applications and variance requests. These items include requests to change land use for residential and poultry house purposes.

• RZ-2025-010: Rezone 1.43 acres at 165 Unawatti Rd from Agricultural General to Rural Residential
• V-2025-007: Variance for 165 Unawatti Rd to allow Rural Residential zoning below 1.5 acre minimum
• RZ-2025-011: Rezone 1.14 acres at 199 Unawatti Rd from Agricultural General to Rural Residential
• V-2025-008: Variance for 199 Unawatti Rd to allow Rural Residential zoning below 1.5 acre minimum
• RZ-2025-012 and RZ-2025-014: Rezone tracts at 1142 Pullian Rd and 2371 North Fairview Rd to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses

The commissioners approved the agenda with a 5-0 vote. No votes were recorded on any of the zoning applications presented. The meeting was then adjourned with a 5-0 vote.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet for pre-certification and certification. The agenda includes discussions on board bylaws and election precincts.

• Amendment to Bylaws for Officers
• Polling location response for July 15, 2025
• Pending Open Records Request
• August training
• Election precincts

Airport Authority Board

The Franklin-Hart County Airport Authority will meet to conduct annual business, including the election of officers and an annual audit. The board will also discuss the Executive Director position and receive updates on hangar and fencing projects.

• Hangar Project Update
• Fencing Project Update
• Annual Audit
• Election of Officers
• Executive Director Position

The Authority unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the May 28, 2025 meeting. It accepted the audit engagement letter from Burch, Crooms & Company at an estimated cost of $7,100. The board also postponed the election of officers and tabled the appointment of an Executive Director until future meetings. An executive session on litigation was held, after which the meeting resumed and was adjourned.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved May 28, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Accepted audit engagement $7,100 (unanimous)
• Postponed election of officers (unanimous)
• Tabled Executive Director appointment (unanimous)
• Entered Executive Session on litigation (unanimous)
• Resumed normal meeting (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss new business. The primary item on the agenda is a speed zone ordinance for South Franklin Elementary.

• Speed Zone Ordinance South Franklin Elementary

The commissioners voted 5‑0 to approve the meeting agenda, adding Item 6b for the Marshal to speak on animal control. They also agreed to move forward with a $2 million Appalachian Regional Commission grant, provided SPLOST funds can cover the required match. The meeting was then adjourned by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda amendment to add Item 6b (Animal Control) (5-0)
• Agreed to proceed with $2 M Appalachian Regional Commission grant, pending SPLOST match
• Motion to adjourn carried (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a special called meeting to address the FY 2026 Budget. This session is focused on budget business prior to a scheduled public hearing on July 7.

• FY 2026 Budget

The board approved the meeting agenda with a 5‑0 vote. The FY 2026 county budget was then approved unanimously (5‑0). The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved FY 2026 budget (5-0)
• Approved adjournment (5-0)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet to discuss the duties of the Superintendents of Election. The agenda includes items regarding precertification and certification.

• Discussion of the Duties of the Superintendents of Election
• Precertification
• Certification
• Signage regarding the provision of legal advice

Planning and Zoning Commission

The provided agenda contains no specific items for decision or discussion. It consists of procedural boilerplate and links to meeting documents.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to conduct a public hearing regarding the FY 2026 Budget. This session allows for statements and remarks from citizens and commissioners concerning the budget.

• Public hearing for the FY 2026 Budget

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved the amended agenda with a 3‑0 vote. No substantive FY 2026 budget actions were taken. The meeting was then adjourned with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved amended agenda (3-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to review the proposed FY 2026 Budget. Library board representatives and staff provided testimony regarding budget requests and service needs.

• Presentation of the proposed FY 2026 Budget by Finance Director Andrew Murphy
• Public comments from library staff and board members regarding budget increase requests

The commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the amended agenda, moving Item 4 to Item 6b. Later, they voted 4-0 to adjourn the public hearing. No other actions or budget approvals were taken.

• Approved amended agenda (4-0)
• Adjourned meeting (4-0)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet to approve previous minutes and review an amendment to the bylaws. The meeting occurs ahead of the June 17 election and the June 20 certification of the PSC Election.

• Review and signing of Amendment to Bylaws

Board of Assessors

The Franklin County Board of Assessors will meet to review 2025 digest appeals and homesteads. The board will also consider vehicle appeals and CUVA applications.

• Vehicle appeals for Jeff Bryant and Eric Lee Adams
• 2025 Digest appeals and Homesteads
• CUVA Applications

The Board of Tax Assessors approved the first set of 30‑day notices and accepted the 2025 real and personal property value changes. It also approved three CUVA applications, one CUVA release, thirteen homestead applications, and two vehicle‑appeal valuations. Nineteen ACOs were approved and the June 18 meeting was cancelled.

• Approved 3 CUVA applications (motion carried)
• Approved 1 CUVA release for Walter Reed (motion carried)
• Approved 13 homestead applications (motion carried)
• Valued 2015 Kia Optima at $4,500 (motion carried)
• Valued 2004 Chevrolet Silverado at $1,200 (motion carried)
• Approved 19 ACOs (motion carried)
• Accepted 2025 value changes and first set of 30‑day notices (motion carried)
• Cancelled June 18, 2025 meeting; next meeting set for July 2, 2025 (motion carried)

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet to approve previous minutes and review and sign an amendment to the bylaws. The meeting occurs ahead of the June 17 election and June 20 certification.

• Review and signing of Amendment to Bylaws

The board approved the meeting agenda with a 5‑0 vote and approved the minutes from the May 22, 2025 meeting with a 5‑0 vote. An amendment to the bylaws was reviewed and signed, though no vote tally is recorded. A motion was made to appoint Angela Whidby as Vice Chair, but the minutes do not show a vote outcome. The meeting adjourned at 6:25 p.m.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Approved minutes from 5/22/2025 (5‑0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to address zoning items and new business. The session includes appointments for the Recreation Committee, Library Board, and Avita Board.

• Appointments for Recreation Committee
• Appointment for Library Board
• Appointment for Avita Board
• Zoning items (old and new business)

The commissioners amended the agenda to add a senior‑center food bid item and approved the meeting minutes, both unanimously. They appointed members to the Recreation Committee, Library Board, and Avita Board. The board also voted to join the Resource Conservation & Development organization and awarded the senior‑center food contract to Trio Community Meals.

• Amended agenda to add senior‑center food bid item (4-0 approved)
• Approved meeting minutes (4-0 approved)
• Appointed Andy Myers (8‑yr) and Barry Peets (4‑yr) to Recreation Committee (4-0 approved)
• Appointed Susan Poole (3‑yr) to Library Board (4-0 approved)
• Appointed Kandy Bond (3‑yr) to Avita Board (4-0 approved)
• Joined Resource Conservation & Development organization (4-0 approved)
• Awarded senior‑center food contract to Trio Community Meals (4-0 approved)

Airport Authority Board

The Franklin-Hart County Airport Authority will meet to review financial reports and provide updates on hangar grants. The board will also discuss land acquisition and ratify changes to a fencing project.

• Grant update regarding hangars
• Land acquisition discussion
• Ratification of changes to the fencing project
• Recognition of George Bennett
• Executive session regarding real estate and litigation

The Franklin‑Hart Airport Authority approved land‑purchase financing terms, increased the local share for a fencing project, and authorized a June 29 celebration for George Bennett. The board also created a non‑paid volunteer Executive Director position to report to the authority. All actions were voted on and approved, with the Executive Director vote at 5‑1.

• Approved land purchase terms: 30‑day seller note at 7% interest and $30,000 earnest money (7‑0)
• Approved increase of local share for fencing project to $14,000 and installation of original 1,400 ft fence (7‑0)
• Approved recognition event for George Bennett on June 29 (7‑0)
• Created a non‑paid volunteer Executive Director position reporting to the authority (5‑1)
• Entered executive session to discuss real estate and litigation matters (7‑0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss the FY 2026 budget and several new business items. The meeting includes reviews of water service agreements and land transfers.

• FY 2026 Budget Presentation
• Water Service Delivery Agreement for Cedar Ridge Subdivision with Banks Co.
• Deed transfer of 3.26 acres to IBA located behind 975 Gerrard Road
• Legacy Link Local Share Commitment Letter FY 2026
• Appointment applications for Boards, Committees, and Authorities

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registration will meet to address new business including a pending open records request and the upcoming June election. The board will also review old business regarding website corrections and procedures.

• June election planning and election day jobs
• Pending Open Records Request
• Website corrections
• Public comment options
• Procedures book

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss audit results and review specific tax-related applications. The body will also address a vehicle appeal and review notices of assessment.

• CUVA Applications / 060-022 A
• Vehicle Appeal: Ronnell Randle Chappetta
• PP issues: Audit results
• Review and signing of E/R and NOD

The Board approved the TBS audit results and two CUVA release applications, including estimated penalties of $3,205.68 and $23,949.11. It also approved one S5 Homestead exemption and valued a 2014 Honda CRV at $3,900.00. Notices of Assessment (NOA) will be mailed on 05/27/2025 with appeals due by 07/11/2025.

• Approved TBS audit results (motion by Eddie Wayne Grizzle, second by Dan Stroud, all for)
• Approved CUVA release for Louise Gast, 44.09 AC, $3,205.68 estimated penalty
• Approved CUVA release for Monroe Brown, 51.97 AC, $23,949.11 estimated penalty
• Approved one S5 Homestead exemption application
• Valued 2014 Honda CRV at $3,900.00 (motion by Eddie Wayne Grizzle, second by Gary Farmer, all for)
• Approved 39 ACOs (Attachment #2)
• Set NOA mailing date for 05/27/2025 and appeal deadline for 07/11/2025

Board of Elections & Registration

The Franklin County Board of Elections and Registration is meeting to discuss a recall petition application submitted against Mayor Lee Moore. No other substantive items are on the agenda.

• Recall petition application for Mayor Lee Moore

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will vote on two millage-rate proposals: consolidating the IBA (Industrial Building Authority) millage rate with the General Fund millage rate and modifying the anticipated FY 2026 millage rate. The special called meeting includes only this business before adjournment.

• Vote on proposed consolidation of IBA and General Fund millage rates
• Vote on modification of anticipated FY 2026 millage rate

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda unanimously. Two motions to address the Industrial Building Authority (IBA) millage—one to consolidate IBA and general‑fund rates and another to raise the millage by 0.25 %—failed because they received no second. A motion to delete Item 4a from the agenda was carried 5‑0. No vote outcome was recorded for the proposed FY 2026 millage‑rate change.

• Approved agenda (5‑0)
• Motion to approve consolidation of IBA and general‑fund millage rates failed (no second)
• Motion to raise millage by 0.25 % for IBA failed (no second)
• Motion to remove Item 4a from agenda approved (5‑0)
• No recorded vote on modification of FY 2026 millage rate

Board of Commissioners

The Board will hold public hearings and vote on several zoning items, including a rezoning request from Rural Residential to Heavy Industrial for a pet crematory on Rose Conley Rd, which the Planning Commission recommended denying. They will also consider a variance for a manufactured home on Saint Michael Dr that was tabled from the previous meeting, along with other rezoning requests. Under new business, the board will discuss a water meter moratorium and the estimated millage rate.

• Rezone (RZ-2025-007) for pet crematory on Rose Conley Rd (3.59 acres) – Planning Commission recommended denial 5-0
• Conditional use permit (C-2025-001) for incinerator/crematory in Heavy Industrial district
• Variance (V-2025-006) to reduce minimum acreage for Heavy Industrial on same property
• Variance (V-2025-004) for manufactured home on Saint Michael Dr – tabled at April 7 meeting
• Water meter moratorium and estimated millage rate discussion

The commissioners approved rezoning of three properties: 2505 Hunters Creek Rd to Agricultural Intensive, 96 Strawberry Ln to Rural Residential, and 17411 Highway 17 Martin to Rural Residential with a condition. They also approved a 90‑day moratorium on new water meters and set an estimated millage rate of 8.235%. Several other items were tabled, including a variance for 173 Saint Michael Dr.

• Approved rezoning of 2505 Hunters Creek Rd to Agricultural Intensive (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 96 Strawberry Ln to Rural Residential (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 17411 Highway 17 Martin to Rural Residential with condition (5-0)
• Approved 90‑day water meter moratorium (5-0)
• Approved estimated millage rate of 8.235% (5-0)
• Tabled variance V-2025-004 for 173 Saint Michael Dr (5-0)
• Tabled rezoning RZ-2025-007 for pet crematory (5-0)
• Tabled variance V-2025-006 for Heavy Industrial rezone (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners holds a public hearing on six zoning items, including a proposal to rezone 3.59 acres on Rose Conley Road to Heavy Industrial for a pet crematory, which the Planning Commission recommended denying 5-0. Other items include rezonings for agricultural and residential uses, a conditional use permit, and a variance request.

• Rezone RZ-2025-007: 3.59 acres on Rose Conley Rd to Heavy Industrial for pet crematory (Planning Commission denial 5-0)
• Conditional use C-2025-001 for incinerator/crematory in HI district
• Variance V-2025-006 to rezone without meeting 5-acre minimum
• Rezone RZ-2025-006: 10.67 acres at 2505 Hunters Creek Rd to Agricultural Intensive
• Rezone RZ-2025-008: 2.0 acres at 96 Strawberry Ln to Rural Residential

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda as presented by a 5‑0 vote, then approved combining items 3a‑3c for discussion by another 5‑0 vote. No zoning applications were acted upon. The meeting was adjourned by a 5‑0 vote.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Approved combined discussion of items 3a‑3c (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet for a work session to discuss new business and receive reports. The session includes discussions on water and an Intergovernmental Agreement with the City of Franklin Springs.

• Intergovernmental Agreement (IGA) with City of Franklin Springs
• Water discussion
• IBA Audit Review

The commissioners approved the agenda and an amendment to add Item Sa for an executive session, each by a 5-0 vote. They then entered executive session, later left it and signed the closed‑meeting affidavit, both unanimously. The meeting was adjourned with a 5-0 vote.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Approved agenda amendment to add Item Sa (Executive Session) (5-0)
• Entered Executive Session (5-0)
• Exited Executive Session and signed Closed Meeting Affidavit (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Airport Authority Board

The Franklin-Hart County Airport Authority will hold a regular meeting to discuss updates on a hangar grant, land acquisition, and a fencing project under old business. New business includes a discussion on airport safety. The board will also review February 2025 financials and approve minutes from March 10, 2025.

• Grant update for hangar construction or renovation
• Land acquisition project discussion
• Fencing project update
• Treasurer report with February 2025 financials
• Approval of minutes from March 10, 2025 meeting

The Franklin-Hart Airport Authority board approved the meeting agenda by unanimous vote. It also approved the March 10, 2025 board minutes unanimously. The board unanimously approved the purchase agreement for the Norris property at a price of $630,000, with $600,000 of funding pending through Franklin County.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 10, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved purchase agreement for Norris property ($630,000) (unanimous)
• Discussed fencing issues, no action taken

Board of Assessors

The Franklin County Board of Assessors will meet to consider Freeport exemption applications for business inventory and CUVA (Current Use Value Assessment) applications. They will also discuss vehicle appeals, 2025 consolidations, and review error/ratio (E/R) and notices of deficiency (NOD). The meeting includes approval of previous minutes and the agenda.

• Freeport exemption applications under old business
• CUVA Applications/065-122 under new business
• Vehicle Appeals
• 2025 Consolidations
• E/R and NOD review and sign

The Board approved 27 Freeport exemption applications and accepted one CUVA application along with 12 CUVA release applications. It also accepted the Digest Consolidation and Inflationary Growth Report and approved a one‑hour per week staff cleaning schedule. The May 7, 2025 meeting was cancelled and 39 ACOs were approved.

• Approved 27 Freeport exemption applications (motion carried)
• Approved 1 CUVA application (motion carried)
• Approved 12 CUVA release applications (motion carried)
• Accepted Consolidation sheets and Inflationary Growth Report (motion carried)
• Approved 1‑hour per week staff cleaning schedule (motion carried)
• Cancelled May 7, 2025 meeting (motion carried)
• Approved 39 ACOs (recorded approval)
• Approved minutes from 4/2/2025 (general consent)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The provided agenda consists of procedural document listings. There are no specific items, proposals, or decisions listed in the text.

Board of Elections & Registration

The Franklin County Board of Elections and Registration will hold a routine meeting to approve prior minutes and discuss new business, including the upcoming special primary election scheduled for June 17, 2025.

• Approval of minutes from February 26, 2025
• New business: special primary election on June 17, 2025

The Board of Elections and Registrations approved the minutes from the February 26, 2025 meeting. No old business was reported. New business listed a special primary election for Public Service Commissioner, but no decision was recorded. The board adjourned after a motion by Sherry McDonald, seconded by Angela Whidby.

• Approved minutes from February 26, 2025 meeting
• Noted special primary election for Public Service Commissioner (no action taken)
• Adjourned meeting (motion by Sherry McDonald, seconded by Angela Whidby)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on four zoning items: two variances and two rezonings. The Planning Commission recommended denial for both variances and approval for the two rezonings. The public may comment on each item.

• V-2025-004: Variance to place a manufactured home on a 0.23-acre lot at 173 Saint Michael Dr, Lavonia; Planning Commission recommended denial 4-0.
• V-2025-005: Variance to build an accessory garage without a principal dwelling on a 5.18-acre lot on Commonwealth Dr, Martin; Planning Commission recommended denial with conditions 4-0.
• RZ-2025-004: Rezone 15.29 acres on Highway 320 from Rural Residential to Agricultural General; Planning Commission recommended approval 4-0.
• RZ-2025-005: Rezone 43.83 acres on Hicks Rd from Agricultural General to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses; Planning Commission recommended approval 4-0.

The commissioners approved the meeting agenda by a 5‑0 vote and then adjourned the session by a 5‑0 vote. No board votes were recorded on the zoning variance or rezoning applications that were discussed.

• Approved agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting on April 7, 2025, to decide on four zoning items, including two variances recommended for denial and two rezones recommended for approval, one for poultry houses. New business includes a food vendor RFP for the Senior Center, a water fee schedule, and a hotel/motel tax proposal. The board will also consider appointments to planning and recreation committees and a proclamation for National Donate Life Month.

• Variance (V-2025-004) to place a manufactured home on a 0.23-acre lot at 173 Saint Michael Dr, Lavonia; Planning Commission recommended denial 4-0
• Variance (V-2025-005) to build an accessory structure without a principal dwelling on a 5.18-acre tract on Commonwealth Dr, Martin; recommended denial with conditions
• Rezone (RZ-2025-004) from Rural Residential to Agricultural General for a 15.29-acre tract on Highway 320, Carnesville; recommended approval
• Rezone (RZ-2025-005) from Agricultural General to Agricultural Intensive for a 43.83-acre tract on Hicks Rd, Toccoa, for poultry houses; recommended approval
• New business: Water Fee Schedule and Hotel/Motel Tax proposals

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved several items, including a resolution to protect the river, a senior‑center food‑vendor RFP, and water fee schedule Option #2. They also voted to raise the hotel/motel tax rate to 8%, approved two rezoning applications and one variance, and appointed new members to the Planning & Zoning and Recreation committees.

• Approved River Resolution (5-0)
• Approved Senior Center food‑vendor RFP (5-0)
• Approved Water Fee Schedule Option #2 (5-0)
• Approved increase of hotel/motel tax to 8% (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2025-005 for accessory garage (5-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-004 to Agricultural General (5-0)
• Approved rezoning RZ-2025-005 to Agricultural Intensive (5-0)
• Approved appointment of Beverly Folsom to Planning & Zoning Committee (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will meet to discuss legislative and administrative matters. The agenda includes reviews of CUVA applications and vehicle appeals.

• Discussion of HB 581
• 2025 After Ratio Studies
• Harris Printing contract
• CUVA Applications
• Vehicle Appeals

The Board approved the minutes from 3/19/2025 and the agenda. It forwarded an appeal to the Board of Equalization, continued the Harris Printing renewal agreement, and approved 99 CUVA applications along with 14 CUVA release applications. The Board also approved 402 homestead applications (denying 4), sent an intent‑to‑breach letter for parcel 065‑122, and changed the next meeting date to April 23, 2025.

• Approved 99 CUVA applications
• Approved 14 CUVA release applications
• Approved 402 homestead applications and denied 4
• Forwarded appeal to the Board of Equalization (motion carried, all for)
• Continued with Harris Printing renewal agreement (motion carried, all for)
• Sent intent‑to‑breach letter for CUVA parcel 065‑122 (motion carried, all for)
• Changed next meeting date to April 23, 2025
• Approved 13 ACOs

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several items, including a request for proposals for a senior center food vendor for 2026, a resolution concerning a river, a proclamation for National Donate Life Month, a water fee schedule, and the hotel/motel tax. No final votes are expected; the session is for discussion and manager and commissioner reports.

• Senior Center – RFP for Food Vendor 2026
• Resolution regarding a river
• Proclamation – National Donate Life Month (April)
• Water Fee Schedule – Discussion
• Hotel/Motel Tax – Discussion

The commissioners voted 4-0 to approve the agenda as presented. They later voted 4-0 to adjourn the work session. Several items such as a senior‑center food vendor RFP, a Broad River resolution, water fee changes, and a hotel/motel tax increase were discussed but no votes were taken; those items will be considered at the April 7 regular meeting.

• Approved agenda (vote 4-0, Commissioner Smith did not vote)
• Adjourned meeting (vote 4-0, Commissioner Smith did not vote)

Planning and Zoning Commission

This meeting appears to be purely procedural, focused on approving the signed minutes from the same date and reviewing the current agenda. No substantive items, rezonings, contracts, or public hearings are listed.

• Approval of signed minutes from the March 20, 2025, meeting
• Review of the meeting agenda document

Board of Assessors

The Franklin County Board of Assessors will consider approval of previous meeting minutes and then discuss old business including HB 581 and specific CUVA parcels (033-033, 038-085). They will review 2025 property values, ratio studies, value tables, and schedules. New business includes a CUVA application (055-002), vehicle appeals from O'Connell Sara Yvonne and Carruth Acey Blake, and review/signature of E/R and NOD documents.

• Discussion of HB 581 (property tax relief legislation)
• 2025 property values review: ratio studies, value tables, and schedules
• CUVA parcels 033-033 and 038-085 (old business)
• CUVA application 055-002 (new business)
• Vehicle appeals: O'Connell Sara Yvonne and Carruth Acey Blake

The board approved raising the Assessor’s daily wage from $75 to $100. It accepted the TBS audit results and tabled the appeal to the Board of Equalization. The board also approved 122 CUVA applications, 11 CUVA release applications, vehicle valuations for two appeals, and adopted recommendations for the 2025 digest.

• Increased Assessor’s daily wage to $100 (motion carried)
• Accepted TBS audit results and tabled appeal to BOE (motion carried)
• Approved 122 CUVA applications (by board)
• Approved 11 CUVA release applications (by board)
• Valued 2011 Toyota Camry at $1,530 (motion carried)
• Valued 2016 Chevy Suburban at $11,000 (motion carried)
• Accepted 2025 digest recommendations (motion carried)

Airport Authority Board

The Franklin-Hart County Airport Authority is holding a called meeting on March 10, 2025. The board will hear updates on a hangar grant, land acquisition, a fencing project, and airport designator proposals. New business includes a hangar lease template, followed by an executive session on litigation.

• Grant Update – Hangars
• Land Acquisition
• Fencing Project
• Airport Designator Proposals
• Hangar Lease Template

The Franklin-Hart County Airport Authority approved a motion to request $600,000 in forward funding from the county and to pay an additional $30,000 plus closing costs from authority funds to purchase the Norris property for $630,000. The board also approved a revised hangar lease template, increasing liability insurance requirements from $100,000 to $1,000,000 and removing hull insurance requirements. A $2.6 million hangar grant remains in process, and a supplemental agreement for an additional 300 feet of fencing was signed by GDOT.

• Approved motion to request $600,000 county forward funding and pay $30,000 plus closing costs for Norris property purchase at $630,000 (unanimous)
• Approved hangar lease template with liability insurance increased to $1,000,000 and hull insurance removed (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from January 31, 2025 meeting (unanimous)
• Approved agenda amendment to add wildlife control and real estate to executive session (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting on March 3, 2025. The agenda includes multiple ordinance amendments to the Unified Development Code, such as adding a definition for personal-use campsites and eliminating setback requirements on Corps of Engineers Lake Hartwell boundary. The board will also vote on several variance requests and rezoning applications, including a rezone from Agricultural General to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses. Other business includes bid results for asphalt resurfacing and a request for proposals for legal services.

• Ordinance to add 'Campsite, Personal Use' definition and regulations to the Unified Development Code
• Ordinance to allow no setback required abutting Corps of Engineers Lake Hartwell boundary
• Variance to build accessory structure without principal dwelling on Burdette Rd, Toccoa (PC recommended approval)
• Rezone 100.93 acres from Agricultural General to Agricultural Intensive for poultry houses on Gumlog Rd, Martin (PC recommended approval)
• Rezone 2.0 acres from Agricultural General to Rural Residential for residential use on Muddy Branch Rd, Canon (PC recommended approval)

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners approved five zoning ordinance amendments and rezoning requests, tabled two rezoning requests, and denied one variance request. The board also approved a $771,371 asphalt resurfacing bid and reappointed the county attorney. A lengthy public comment period featured residents raising concerns about a possible rendering plant in Franklin Springs.

• Approved UDC amendments for personal-use campsites, Lake Hartwell setbacks, RR district lot sizes, and accessory uses (5-0)
• Approved variance for accessory structure on Burdette Rd, Toccoa (5-0)
• Denied variance for 10-lot subdivision at 1287 Campbell Ridge Rd, Royston (4-0, Commissioner Smith recused)
• Approved rezoning of 100.93 acres on Gumlog Rd for poultry houses (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 15.14 acres on Caney Branch Rd to Agricultural General (5-0)
• Tabled rezoning of 2.0 acres on Muddy Branch Rd at applicant's request (5-0)
• Approved rezoning of 12.11 acres on Hwy 145 to Agricultural General (5-0)
• Approved $771,371 LMIG asphalt resurfacing bid from Stratton & Sons (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on four proposed ordinances amending the Unified Development Code, covering personal-use campsites, Lake Hartwell boundary setbacks, rural residential lot sizes, and accessory use provisions. The board will also consider several variance requests and rezone applications, including a 100.93-acre rezone for poultry houses and a tabled rezone for residential use.

• Four proposed amendments to the Unified Development Code (personal campsites, Lake Hartwell setbacks, rural residential lot sizes, accessory uses)
• Rezone RZ-2025-001: 100.93 acres at 5439 Gumlog Rd from AG to AI for poultry houses
• Variance V-2025-002: denied request to build accessory structure without principal dwelling on Normandy Trail
• Variance V-2025-003: denied request to exceed 5-lot subdivision limit on Campbell Ridge Rd
• Rezone RZ-2024-026: 12.11 acres at 4505 Highway 145 from AI to AG for residential (tabled 5-0)

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing and approved several Unified Development Code amendments, including adding a definition for personal-use campsites and eliminating setbacks along Corps Lake Hartwell boundaries. A rezoning request for a 12.11-acre tract was tabled for further planning staff review. Several variance requests were also considered, with one withdrawn and others denied or pending.

• Approved agenda with vote corrections (5-0)
• Approved UDC amendment adding personal-use campsite definition and requirements (5-0)
• Approved UDC amendment eliminating 10-foot setback abutting Corps Lake Hartwell boundary (5-0)
• Approved UDC amendment increasing minimum lot size in RR district to 2 acres (5-0)
• Approved UDC amendment cleaning up accessory use language (5-0)
• Tabled rezoning RZ-2024-026 for 12.11 acres at 4505 Highway 145 (5-0)
• Withdrawn variance V-2025-002 for accessory structure on Normandy Trail
• Denied variance V-2025-003 to exceed land divisions from 5 to 10 lots

Board of Elections & Registration

The Franklin County Board of Elections & Registration will meet to address old and new business. Key discussion items include a new polling location for the City of Carnesville and the location of future meetings.

• City of Carnesville new polling place
• Revision of public comments
• Proposal to move meetings back to the election office

The Franklin County Board of Elections held a called meeting and approved three old business items: a new polling place for the City of Carnesville, a revision of public comment procedures, and moving meetings back to the election office. No new business was discussed. The next meeting is scheduled for April 10, 2025.

• Approved new polling place for City of Carnesville (motion by Angela, second by Marie)
• Approved revision of public comments (motion by Sherry, second by Angela)
• Approved moving meetings back to election office (motion by Angela, second by Marie)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will discuss HB 581 and review ratio studies, value tables, and schedules for 2025 values. The meeting includes reviews of CUVA applications and vehicle appeals.

• Review of 2025 values, Ratio Studies, Value Tables and Schedules
• Discussion of HB 581
• CUVA applications/questions for 055-002 and 033-033, 038-085
• Vehicle appeals for Sara Yvonne O’Connell and Acey Blake Carruth
• Executive session regarding personnel

The Franklin County Board of Assessors approved 74 CUVA continuations, 1 FLPA continuation, and denied 2 CUVA applications. They also approved 15 CUVA release applications, mostly without penalty due to death or policy changes. The board accepted a late return from Powdercoat America and approved a new clerk hire. Several property-specific CUVA decisions were made, including denying one application due to no taxpayer response.

• Approved 74 CUVA continuations and 1 FLPA continuation; denied 2 CUVA applications
• Approved 15 CUVA release applications (e.g., Thomas, Miller, Payne, etc.)
• Accepted late return from Powdercoat America
• Approved Hannah Bridges for Clerk position
• Denied CUVA for parcel 033-033 (shooting range, no taxpayer response)
• Approved CUVA renewal for parcel 038-085 with 1 acre as FMV for building
• Set vehicle values: 2014 Honda Odyssey at $4,250; 2003 Chevy Silverado at $3,915
• Approved 19 ACOs (Attachment #2)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss an agriculture study, review bid results for 2025 LMIG asphalt resurfacing, and consider a request for proposals for legal services. The meeting also includes reports from the county manager and district commissioners, but no voting or formal decisions are scheduled.

• Presentation of Ag study by Kristen Miller and Tommie Shepard
• Bid results for 2025 LMIG Asphalt Resurfacing
• RFP for Legal Services

The Board of Commissioners held a work session and took no final votes on substantive items. They heard a recommendation to award the 2025 LMIG asphalt resurfacing contract to Stratton & Sons Construction, Inc. for $771,371.00, with funding from GDOT and SPLOST. They also discussed an economic impact study proposal and reviewed two RFP responses for county attorney services, with decisions scheduled for the March 3 regular meeting. The agenda was approved 5-0.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Heard bid results for 2025 LMIG asphalt resurfacing; low bid $771,371 from Stratton & Sons
• Discussed RFP for legal services; two firms responded (Jom Jarred & Davis, The Samuels Firm)
• Discussed economic impact study with PROPEL coach; cost proposal to be prepared
• Adjourned (5-0)

Planning and Zoning Commission

The Planning and Zoning Commission agenda for February 20, 2025, lists only file names for meeting materials and minutes. No rezonings, ordinances, contracts, or public hearings are specified. This agenda appears to be procedural boilerplate.

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 to opt out of House Bill 581, which would have created a floating homestead exemption. Board members cited a projected loss of over $250,000 from city tax equalization and $30,000 from changes to taxable personal property, as well as pending state legislative changes. They committed to continuing to explore local alternatives and noted any change would not take effect until 2027.

• Approved resolution to opt out of HB581 (floating homestead exemption) by a 4-0 vote.
• County has already lost over $250,000 from city tax equalization and $30,000 from new personal property tax law.
• Three public hearings were held to meet state requirements before the vote.
• Board stated they lack the budgetary means to absorb the exemption and will continue seeking local options.
• Any future tax relief change would not go to a vote until 2026 for implementation on 2027 tax bills.

The Board of Commissioners voted 4-0 to opt out of House Bill 581, the floating homestead exemption, after holding three public hearings. Chair Long cited the county's inability to absorb the cost, noting losses of over $250,000 from city tax equalization and $30,000 from a new personal property tax law. The board committed to continuing to explore local options, with any change not taking effect until 2027. Commissioner Pulliam did not have an official vote recorded.

• Approved agenda 5-0
• Approved HB581 opt-out resolution 4-0
• Adjourned meeting 5-0

Board of Elections & Registration

The Board of Elections and Registration will discuss the 2026 budget and the potential relocation of a polling place. Members will also review a quote from Dominion for privacy screens and discuss upcoming November elections.

• Proposed move of polling place from Carnesville Fire Dept to Carnesville Community Center
• Dominion quote for BMD privacy screens
• 2026 Budget
• November municipal and public service elections
• Board member terms

The Franklin County Board of Elections met on Feb. 13, 2025, and approved the minutes from the Dec. 31, 2024 meeting. No public comment or old business was reported. New business included a quote for privacy screens for ballot marking devices, a proposed move of the Carnesville precinct to the Carnesville Community Center pending a rate quote, and a review of board member terms. The board will vote on the precinct move in April.

• Approved minutes from Dec. 31, 2024 meeting
• Received quote for BMD privacy screens, to be added to 2026 budget
• Discussed moving Carnesville precinct to Carnesville Community Center, vote set for April
• Sent board member term dates to county attorney for review
• Noted municipal election in November and Public Service Commissioner election in June
• Reviewed 2026 budget, discussed additions including possible Savannah conference trip

Board of Commissioners

The Board will consider two rezoning applications and one variance, all tabled without recommendation by the Planning Commission. New business includes a resolution on HB581 opting out of statewide homestead exemption, adoption of the 2024 Joint Comprehensive Plan, an intergovernmental agreement with Franklin Springs, and a groundwater study update. Several commissioner appointments to local boards are also scheduled.

• RZ-2024-025: Rezone 10.13 acres at 1471 Crumps Bridge Rd from Rural Residential to Agricultural General (applicant Gary Prior, property owners Prior/Gilbert)
• RZ-2024-026: Rezone 12.11 acres at 4505 Highway 145 from Agricultural Intensive to Agricultural General (applicant Benjamin Echols Prior, owner Don Farm LLC)
• V-2024-012: Variance for accessory structure without principal dwelling at 218 Brittany Cove Circle (applicant Eric Nunez, owner Serviconca LLC)
• HB581 Opt Out resolution – deciding whether to opt out of the statewide homestead exemption
• 2024 Franklin County Joint Comprehensive Plan resolution and appointments to Board of Health, Airport Authority, and other bodies

The Board approved a rezoning (RZ-2024-025) from Rural Residential to Agricultural General for a 10.13-acre tract, tabled another rezoning (RZ-2024-026) pending further review, and denied a variance for an accessory structure without a principal dwelling. The board also approved the 2024 audit presentation, the 2024 Joint Comprehensive Plan resolution, the Franklin Springs IGA, and a groundwater study, while tabling the HB581 opt-out resolution. All votes were 5-0.

• Approved rezoning RZ-2024-025 (RR to AG) for 1471 Crumps Bridge Rd (5-0)
• Tabled rezoning RZ-2024-026 (AI to AG) for 4505 Highway 145 (5-0)
• Denied variance V-2024-012 for accessory structure at 218 Brittany Cove Cir (5-0)
• Approved 2024 audit presentation from Rushton (5-0)
• Approved 2024 Joint Comprehensive Plan resolution (5-0)
• Approved Franklin Springs IGA (5-0)
• Approved groundwater study (5-0)
• Tabled HB581 opt-out resolution (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing to consider opting out of HB581, a state law that would adjust homestead exemptions. No decisions are expected at this hearing; it is solely for public comment. The board will hold its regular meeting immediately after.

• Public hearing on HB581 opt out decision

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on whether to opt out of HB581, a state property tax bill. No decision was made; the board heard public comments and discussed a possible tax relief resolution. The meeting was procedural only, with no substantive vote on the opt-out.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners holds a public hearing on three zoning items. Two rezones seek to change property designations to Agricultural General for residential use: one at 1471 Crumps Bridge Rd (10.13 acres from Rural Residential) and one at 4505 Highway 145 (12.11 acres from Agricultural Intensive). The third item is a variance request to build an accessory structure (shed) at 218 Brittany Cove Circle without a principal dwelling, in the Lakefront Residential district. The Planning Commission took no action on any of these items.

• Rezone of 10.13 acres at 1471 Crumps Bridge Rd from RR to AG for residential use
• Rezone of 12.11 acres at 4505 Highway 145 from AI to AG for residential use
• Variance request to build a shed at 218 Brittany Cove Circle without a principal dwelling

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on opting out of HB581, a state property tax bill. No public comment was offered, and no vote was taken on the opt-out itself; the board only approved the agenda and adjourned. Chair Long and Commissioner Busby stated the decision was studied and that opting out was chosen to avoid raising the millage rate.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing to consider opting out of HB581, a state property tax law. The hearing includes public comment and is the only substantive item on the agenda. Upcoming meetings later the same day include a regular BOC meeting and another public hearing.

• Public hearing on HB581 opt-out
• Public comment period for HB581 opt-out
• Upcoming BOC public hearing at 5:30 PM
• Upcoming BOC regular meeting at 6:00 PM

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on February 3, 2025, but took no substantive action on the three zoning items on the agenda. The board approved the agenda and adjourned, both by 5-0 votes. No decisions were made on the rezoning or variance requests.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)
• No action taken on RZ-2024-025 rezone request (applicant absent)
• No action taken on RZ-2024-026 rezone request
• No action taken on V-2024-012 variance request

Airport Authority Board

The Franklin-Hart County Airport Authority will consider approval of a lease policy, a grant update for hangars, and a quote for a fencing project. The board will also review financial reports, a timber sales update, and proposals for an airport designator. Executive session is scheduled for real estate matters.

• Lease Policy Approval
• Grant Update – Hangars
• Fencing Project Quote
• Airport Designator Proposals
• Jet A Sales – Fuel Truck discussion

The Franklin-Hart County Airport Authority approved the purchase of approximately 90 acres adjoining the airport from Michael Norris for $630,000, with funding stipulations, after an executive session. The board also approved a lease policy, a fencing project with a max local spend of $12,500, and changed the airport designator to KCAN. All decisions were made unanimously.

• Approved purchase of ~90 acres from Michael Norris for $630,000 (unanimous)
• Approved lease policy after GDOT iterations (unanimous)
• Approved fencing project with max local spend of $12,500 (unanimous)
• Changed airport designator to KCAN (unanimous)
• Approved credit card for airport manager Chuck Floyd (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and minutes from December 11, 2024 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several new business items. The meeting includes discussions on the 2024 Joint Comprehensive Plan and a groundwater study.

• 2024 Franklin County Joint Comprehensive Plan discussion
• Franklin Springs IGA discussion
• Groundwater Study discussion

The Board of Commissioners held a work session with no formal votes on substantive items. They discussed changes to the 2024 Joint Comprehensive Plan, an intergovernmental agreement with Franklin Springs for sewer access, and a proposed groundwater study. No decisions were made; votes are expected at a future regular meeting.

• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a public hearing regarding an HB581 opt out. Tax Commissioner Bobby Martin is listed as the lead for this business item.

• Public hearing on HB581 Opt Out

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on January 28, 2025, to consider opting out of the statewide adjusted base year ad valorem homestead exemption under HB581. Tax Commissioner Bobby Martin and several citizens spoke on the issue, and commissioners discussed the potential impacts on taxes, services, and debt. No formal decision or vote was taken at this hearing; the board only approved the agenda and adjourned.

• Approved agenda with added public comment item (5-0)
• Adjourned meeting (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Franklin County Board of Assessors will consider 2025 property values, discuss HB 581 (Georgia property tax legislation), and review ongoing issues with Airbnb properties. They will also address ownership issues on parcels 015-024 A and 0154-024 G for CUVA applications. The board will review and sign E/R (equalization/ratio) and NOD (notice of assessment) documents, and may enter executive session.

• Discussion of HB 581 property tax legislation
• Review of 2025 property values
• Ownership issues on parcels 015-024 A and 0154-024 G for CUVA applications
• Vehicle appeals review
• E/R and NOD review and sign

The Franklin County Board of Tax Assessors approved 41 CUVA applications and 6 CUVA release applications, with penalties waived for most due to death. They also approved two plats for CUVA properties, sent an intent-to-breach letter for a parcel transferred to an unqualified buyer, and tabled a decision on a CUVA renewal involving a nonprofit building. No vehicle appeals were heard.

• Approved 41 CUVA applications
• Approved 6 CUVA release applications (incl. Massey, Redbud Poultry, Cannavo)
• Approved sending intent-to-breach letter for parcel 015-024-A
• Approved two plats for CUVA properties (parcels 023-003 and 062-104-A)
• Tabled CUVA renewal for parcel 038-085 due to nonprofit building
• Approved 7 ACOs

Airport Authority Board

The Franklin-Hart County Airport Authority is holding a called meeting to consider several operational and development items. Old business includes updates from the Kimley-Horn consultant, a grant for hangars, approval of a lease policy, a fencing project quote, and airport designator proposals. New business covers a courtesy car, an airport credit card, Jet A fuel sales, and an executive session regarding real estate.

• Grant update – Hangars
• Lease Policy Approval
• Fencing Project Quote
• Airport Designator Proposals
• Executive Session – Real Estate

Planning and Zoning Commission

The agenda lists only approval of previous meeting minutes and no substantive decisions or discussions. The meeting appears to be purely procedural without any zoning requests, ordinances, or public hearings.

Board of Assessors

The Franklin County Board of Assessors will hold a routine meeting to elect officers, approve the 2025 meeting schedule, and review minutes. They will discuss old business including the pre-bill digest and appeals deadline, and new business including CUVA applications, vehicle appeals, and homestead policy. An executive session is scheduled for personnel matters.

• CUVA applications for parcels 062-023, 033-033, 062-028 A, and 038-085
• Vehicle appeals by James David Daniel and Roach Wade Oneal
• Pre-bill digest data sent to Tax Commissioner; last appeal date is April 1, 2025
• Discussion of homestead exemptions when owner dies
• Executive session to discuss personnel

The Franklin County Board of Tax Assessors approved 21 CUVA applications, 2 CUVA release applications (due to death), and 2 vehicle appeals with set values. They also approved the 2025 meeting schedule, elected officers, and discussed several CUVA property issues, including one tabled and one pending taxpayer discussion.

• Elected Gary Farmer as Chair, Dan Stroud as Vice Chair, Craig Goss as Secretary
• Approved minutes from 12/18/2024 and agenda as published
• Approved 2025 meeting schedule
• Approved 21 CUVA applications
• Approved 2 CUVA release applications (Henry Whitworth, Vernon Lingerfelt) with no penalty due to death
• Approved sending intent to breach letter for parcel 062-023
• Approved sending intent to breach letter for parcel 062-028-A, with CUVA ending without penalty and new commercial parcel creation
• Valued 2016 2500 CC Ram at $20,300 and 2001 GMC Sierra 1500 Ex Cab at $3,500

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will take action on a zoning request tabled from December, along with four variance applications for lakefront and rural properties. The board also considers appointments for county attorney and clerk, and routine approvals of minutes and citizen remarks.

• Rezone RZ-2024-024: 15.22 acres on Sandy Cross Rd/Highway 326 from AG to RR (residential) – tabled December 2, 2024 pending a site plan
• Variance V-2024-007: Build garage without principal dwelling on 0.38-acre lot on Knottywood Dr, Lavonia (Lakefront Residential)
• Variance V-2024-009: Reduce right side setback from 10 ft to 3 ft on 0.2-acre lot at 270 Greenpeace Way, Lavonia
• Variance V-2024-010: Build home up to Corps of Engineer line, eliminating 10 ft rear setback on 0.35-acre lot on Place De L’toile, Lavonia
• Variance V-2024-011: Reduce front setback from 40 ft to 20 ft and side setbacks from 25 ft to 10 ft on 1.04 acres at 32 Dons Court, Royston

The board denied a request to rezone 15.22 acres on Sandy Cross Rd/Highway 326 from Agricultural General to Rural Residential (3-2). It approved four variances for properties in Lavonia and Royston, including a garage without a principal dwelling and reduced setbacks. The board also approved funding for a court reporter, authority for the Tax Commissioner to accept checks, and a $50K annual juvenile court prosecutor contract.

• Denied rezone RZ-2024-024 for 15.22 acres on Sandy Cross Rd (3-2)
• Approved variance V-2024-007 for garage without principal dwelling on Knottywood Dr (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2024-009 reducing side setback to 3 ft at 270 Greenpeace Way (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2024-010 eliminating rear setback at Place De U'toile (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2024-011 reducing front/side setbacks at 32 Dons Court (5-0)
• Approved $400/month for court reporter for new judge (5-0)
• Approved Tax Commissioner authority to accept checks (5-0)
• Approved $50K/year for juvenile court prosecutor Kevin McFarlin (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing on four variance applications from the Unified Development Code. All four variances were recommended for approval by the Planning Commission. The items involve setbacks, accessory structures, and principal building placement on Lakefront Residential (LR) and Rural Residential (RR) lots in Districts 2 and 3.

• V-2024-007: David Tetzlaff seeks variance to build a garage without a principal dwelling on a 0.38-acre tract at Knottywood Dr., Lavonia (LR district).
• V-2024-009: Paul Maloney seeks to reduce the required 10-ft right-side setback to 3 ft on a 0.2-acre tract at 270 Greenpeace Way, Lavonia (LR district).
• V-2024-010: Markus Spitzer seeks to eliminate the 10-ft rear setback to build a home up to the Lake Hartwell Corps of Engineer line on a 0.35-acre tract on Place De L'toile, Lavonia (LR district).
• V-2024-011: Sean Hayes seeks to reduce front setback from 40 ft to 20 ft and side setbacks from 25 ft to 10 ft on a 1.04-acre tract at 32 Dons Court, Royston (RR district).

The Franklin County Board of Commissioners held a public hearing and approved all five zoning variance requests on the agenda, each by a 5-0 vote. The variances allow construction or setback reductions on properties in Lakefront Residential and Rural Residential districts. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved variance V-2024-007 to build a garage without a principal dwelling on Knottywood Dr. (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2024-009 to reduce right side setback from 10 ft to 3 ft at 270 Greenpeace Way (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2024-010 to eliminate 10 ft rear setback at Place De Utoile (5-0)
• Approved variance V-2024-011 to reduce front setback from 40 ft to 20 ft and side setbacks from 25 ft to 10 ft at 32 Dons Court (5-0)