McDuffie County public meetings in 2023

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will meet to discuss the 2024 budget and the City Administrator contract. The body is also considering appointments for a Municipal Judge and the Regional Development Commission.

• 2024 Budget
• City Administrator Contract
• Municipal Judge Appointment
• Municipal Gas Authority of Georgia – Anchor Member
• Resolution 07-2023 GEFA Loan #CW2020015A

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss the 2024 budget and the appointment of a municipal judge. The meeting also includes employee recognition for Joe Usry, Michael Washington, and Kaitlin Gibson.

• Discussion of 2024 Budget
• Municipal Judge Appointment

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will consider appointing Kenneth Usry to the CSRA Regional Commission board. The body will also review the November ACO Report and discuss canceling two upcoming meetings.

• Appointment of Kenneth Usry to CSRA Regional Commission board
• Approval of November ACO Report
• Proposed cancellation of December 19 and January 1 BOC meetings

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss variances and a special exemption for two specific addresses. The board will also review the minutes from the November 7, 2023 meeting.

• Variances and special exemption for 168 Branan Street
• Variances and special exemption for 166 Honey Hole Road

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several administrative items. The meeting includes a review of the November ACO Report and a proposal to cancel two upcoming meetings.

• Appointment of Historic Preservation Commission members
• Review of the November ACO Report
• Proposed cancellation of December 19 and January 1 BOC meetings

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and vote on two land-use requests. The meeting also includes decisions on the FY2024 fee schedule, employee education increases, and equipment quotes for county campgrounds and animal services.

• Rezone 943 Augusta Highway from R-1 to C-1
• Special use exemption for 19.27 acres on Lincolnton Highway (Parcel 00370001)
• Approval of FY2024 Schedule of Fees
• Quotes for Big Hart Campground roof replacements and storage buildings
• Quote for a dog kennel for injured, quarantined, or birthing dogs

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a zoning recommendation for 539 Guill Street. The council will also address employee medical insurance.

• Public hearing for zoning change from R-1 to R-2 at 539 Guill Street to allow a duplex
• Discussion of employee medical insurance

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission will review requests for variances, special exemptions, and rezoning. These items include changes to residential and commercial designations for specific properties.

• Variances and special exemption for 168 Branan Street and 166 Honey Hole Road
• Rezoning of 539 Guill Street from R-1 to R-2
• Rezoning of 943 Augusta Highway from R-1 to C-1
• Special use exemption for 19.27 acres of Parcel 00370001 on Lincolnton Highway

City of Thomson Council

The City Council is holding a work session to discuss the 2024 draft city budget and employee medical insurance. The meeting also includes reports from the City Administrator and the Mayor.

• 2024 Draft City Budget
• Employee Medical Insurance

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing for the FY23 budget and consider approval of the FY2024 budget. The meeting includes decisions on mobile home decal ordinances and a resurfacing project change order.

• FY23 Budget public hearing
• Approval of FY2024 Budget (Resolution 23-17)
• Ordinance amendment and Resolution 23-18 regarding mobile home decals
• Change order for resurfacing project
• Appointment of directors to the Development Authority of McDuffie County (Resolution 23-19)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several administrative and budgetary items. Key considerations include the FY2024 budget resolution and a resurfacing project change order.

• FY2024 Budget Resolution
• Ordinance amendment for mobile home decals
• Change order for resurfacing project
• Holiday supplement pay for employees
• Campground tree estimates

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the FY23 budget. The body will also consider several new business items, including a broadband agreement and a property rezoning request.

• FY23 Budget public hearing
• Rezoning of 5538 Lincolnton Highway from residential to commercial use
• Variance for Barney’s Pharmacy to dispense medical cannabis less than 1,000 feet from a church at 1682 Washington Road
• Approval of ARPA Broadband Adm Agreement
• Request for Qualifications for Design of Amphitheater and Park

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will meet to discuss a resolution regarding alcohol licenses and two road closure requests. The body will also address the Fall Trash Amnesty Day scheduled for October 28th.

• Resolution 06-2023: 180 Day Moratorium on Receipt and Processing of Alcohol Licenses
• Thomson-McDuffie Recreation Department road closure request
• Chamber of Commerce road closure request
• Fall Trash Amnesty Day on October 28th

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the temporary suspension of alcoholic beverage licenses and the abandonment of portions of Ferrous Road. The meeting includes presentations of the 2024 proposed budget and the current schedule of fees.

• Proposed Resolution 23-15 to temporarily suspend alcoholic beverage license issuance
• Determination to abandon portions of Ferrous Road
• Contract with CSRA Regional Commission for Paul Bruhn Subgrant Program
• Purchase of Civic Plus management and meeting software
• Purchase of cameras for Animal Services at the Animal Shelter

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission is meeting to review several land-use requests. The board will consider a residential-to-commercial rezoning and two variance requests, as well as a special exception for a daycare.

• Rezoning of 5538 Lincolnton Highway from residential to commercial use
• Variance for Barney’s Pharmacy (1682 Washington Road) to dispense medical cannabis less than 1,000 feet from a church
• Variance of setback requirements for a home at 168 Branan Street
• Special exception use for a daycare at 166 Honey Hole Road

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the temporary suspension of alcoholic beverage licenses and the 2024 proposed budget. The body is also considering several contracts and the abandonment of portions of Ferrous Road.

• Resolution 23-15 to temporarily suspend issuance of alcoholic beverage licenses
• Proposed abandonment of portions of Ferrous Road
• Contract with CSRA Regional Commission for Paul Bruhn Subgrant Program
• Purchase of Civic Plus management and meeting software
• Presentation of 2024 Proposed Budget

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider a resolution regarding the FY 2023 millage rate. The body will also review funding for transit and road projects and a salary increase for county education.

• Public hearing and Resolution 23-11 for FY 2023 Millage Rate
• Alcohol license application for SAI KRUPA HOTEL LLC
• Resolution 23-12 for Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion
• Supplemental agreement with DOT for West Bypass Project funding
• McDuffie County Education salary increase

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and meeting to review planning and zoning recommendations for three properties. The body will also consider alcohol license requests and the 2023 millage rate.

• Zoning recommendations for 306 Grier Circle, 218 Jackson Street, and 600 O’Neal Street
• 2023 Millage Rate
• Alcohol license request for Lucky One Stop LLC at 735 Cobbham Road
• Alcohol license request for Jauhal Corp. dba Rimpy’s Liquor at 520 Old Washington Rd
• Springfield Baptist Church street closure requests

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss the 2023 millage rate and three property variance requests. The session also includes a time for council concerns.

• Variance request for a sober living facility on Grier Circle
• Variance request to use 218 Jackson Street as a temporary church
• Variance request to subdivide a parcel on O’Neal Street for two duplexes
• Setting of the 2023 millage rate

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a special called meeting to conduct a public hearing. The primary focus of the meeting is the FY 2023 millage rate.

• Public hearing regarding FY 2023 Millage Rate

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to discuss the proposed FY 2023 millage rate. The board is considering whether to maintain the current rate of 7.809 mil or roll back to 7.150. No final decision was recorded in the minutes.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is holding a special called meeting. The primary purpose of the session is to conduct a public hearing regarding the FY 2023 millage rate.

• Public hearing on FY 2023 Millage Rate

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to discuss the proposed FY 2023 millage rate. The board considered two options: maintaining the current rate of 7.809 mil or rolling back to 7.150. No final decision on the rate was recorded in the minutes.

• Held public hearing for FY 2023 Millage Rate

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved a contract for the Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project and issued three alcohol licenses. Other actions included abandoning portions of Ferrous Road and amending the Fiscal 2024 Budget Policy. The Board also scheduled public hearings for the 2023 Millage Rate.

• Approved temporary alcohol license for BG Strong Charities Golf Tournament (unanimous)
• Approved beer and wine license for Molly’s Convenience Store (unanimous)
• Approved beer and wine license for One Stop Food Mart (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-09 to abandon portions of Ferrous Road (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-10 supporting Georgia Outdoor Stewardship Program grant for Little River Water Trail expansion (unanimous)
• Approved first reading to amend Fire Fee Ordinance to include Dearing (unanimous)
• Approved Beam Site Prep, LLC as bidder for Wrightsboro Road Sewer Expansion Project (unanimous)
• Approved amendment to Fiscal 2024 Budget Policy (unanimous)

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission will review a rezoning request for a residential property and two variance requests. The board will also appoint a Vice Chair.

• Rezoning request for 0.8 acres at 600 O’Neal Street from R-1B to R-2 for two 2-family dwelling units
• Variance request for a church at 218 Jackson Street
• Variance request for a group home at 306 Grier Circle
• Appointment of Vice Chair

The Planning Commission approved a rezoning request for a multi-family dwelling and a variance for a church. A variance request for a group home on Grier Circle was denied. Commissioner Bill Hopkins was elected Vice-Chair.

• Elected Commissioner Bill Hopkins as Vice-Chair (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of 0.8 acre at 600 O’Neal Street from R-1B to R-2 for two 2-family dwelling units (5-1)
• Approved variance request for a church at 218 Jackson Street (unanimous)
• Denied variance request for a group home at 306 Grier Circle (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council is meeting to discuss two intergovernmental agreements (IGA). These agreements concern county-wide broadband service and the consolidation of fire and emergency services.

• Intergovernmental agreement regarding County-wide Broadband Service
• Intergovernmental agreement regarding Consolidated Fire and Emergency Services

The City Council approved two intergovernmental agreements (IGAs) involving McDuffie County and the Town of Dearing. One agreement manages funding for county-wide broadband, and the other consolidates fire and emergency services.

• Approved IGA for County-wide Broadband Service involving City of Thomson, McDuffie County, Town of Dearing, McDuffie County Board of Education, and Development Authority (5-0)
• Approved IGA for Consolidated Fire and Emergency Services between City of Thomson, McDuffie County, Town of Dearing, and McDuffie County Fire and EMS (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on variances and subdivision review for Bent Creek Village. The body is also considering several agreements for broadband improvements and a special lighting district ordinance.

• Variances and subdivision review for Bent Creek Village on Thomson East Bypass
• Ordinance Amendment 23-01 regarding a Special Lighting District
• Broadband Expansion Project agreement with Comcast Cable Communications, LLC
• Intergovernmental Agreement for funding broadband improvements
• Temporary alcohol licenses for Blind Willis McTell Blues Festival and Chamber Golf Tournament

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved several intergovernmental agreements for broadband improvements and fire/EMS consolidation. They also approved the Bent Creek Village development and a special lighting district ordinance. Additional approvals included temporary alcohol licenses for two upcoming events.

• Approved Bent Creek Village Development (unanimous)
• Approved Ordinance Amendment 23-01 for Special Lighting District (unanimous)
• Approved SPLOST funding for AFG - Fire Fighters Grant protective gear (unanimous)
• Approved FY24 5311 Transit Operating Contract (unanimous)
• Approved broadband expansion agreement with Comcast Cable Communications, LLC (unanimous)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement for broadband funding improvements (unanimous)
• Approved intergovernmental agreement to consolidate city and county fire and EMS (unanimous)
• Approved temporary alcohol licenses for Blind Willis McTell Blues Festival and Chamber Golf Tournament (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City of Thomson Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a zoning variance for medical cannabis dispensing. The meeting also includes reviews of waste management and contractor agreements.

• Variance request for medical cannabis dispensing at 501 Mount Pleasant Road (less than 1,000 feet from a school)
• Waste Management Contract
• 2023 LMIG Contractor
• Request to close Railroad Street from Main St to Crosswalk on September 22, 2023
• One-Day Alcohol License for Blind Willie Kick-off Concert on September 22, 2023

The City Council granted a variance allowing Thomson Drug Company to dispense medical cannabis despite being less than 1,000 feet from a school. The council also approved a waste management contract and a paving bid from All Star Concrete, Inc.

• Approved variance for Thomson Drug Company at 501 Mount Pleasant Road to dispense medical cannabis (5-0)
• Approved Waste Management contract (5-0)
• Approved $266,860.25 paving bid from All Star Concrete, Inc. for City portion of LMIG project (5-0)
• Approved closing of Railroad Street from Main Street to Hogie Joe’s crosswalk on September 22, 2023 (5-0)
• Approved placement of advertising sign at the Depot from August 22 to September 22 (5-0)
• Approved one-day alcohol license for September 22 concert (4-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved July 13, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss budget amendments and an audit presentation. The agenda also includes a discussion on lighting for Sweetwater Park and IT surplus.

• Audit Presentation
• Budget Amendments
• Lighting for Sweetwater Park
• IT Surplus
• Recreation Advisory Board Appointments

The Board of Commissioners approved budget amendments and the use of SPLOST interest to fund lighting at Sweetwater Park. The board also approved the June ACO report and the surpusing of IT equipment. The Baird Audit Group presented the 2022 Annual Financial Report, which disclosed no deficiencies.

• Approved Regular Session (July 18) and Work Session (July 31) minutes (Unanimous)
• Approved appointments of Carl Gunn and Melody Crenshaw to Recreation Advisory Board (Unanimous)
• Approved budget amendments (Unanimous)
• Approved lighting of Sweetwater Park using SPLOST interest (Unanimous)
• Approved IT equipment surplus (Unanimous)
• Approved June ACO Report (Unanimous)

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission is meeting to review a rezoning request for a multi-family dwelling and a subdivision review. The board will also consider a variance to allow a pharmacy to dispense medical cannabis near a school.

• Rezoning request for 0.8 acres at 600 O’Neal Street from R-1B to R-2 for two 2-family dwellings
• Variances and subdivision review for Bent Creek Village on Thomson East Bypass
• Variance request for Thomson Drug Company at 501 Mt Pleasant Road to dispense medical cannabis within 1,000 feet of a school
• Appointment of Vice Chair

The board approved a subdivision review for Bent Creek Village and a distance variance for Thomson Drug Company. A rezoning request for 600 O’Neal Street was tabled pending further plans. The appointment of a Vice Chair was postponed.

• Approved Bent Creek Village subdivision review and variances (4-0)
• Approved variance for Thomson Drug Company to dispense medical cannabis within 1,000 feet of a school (3-1)
• Tabled rezoning of 600 O’Neal Street from R-1B to R-2 (4-0)
• Postponed appointment of Vice Chair

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a work session to discuss several administrative and community items. The meeting focuses on budget adjustments and park improvements.

• Budget Amendments
• Lighting for Sweetwater Park
• IT Surplus
• Recreation Advisory Board Discussion

The Board of Commissioners met for a work session to discuss budget amendments, park lighting, IT surplus, and board appointments. No official actions or votes were taken during the meeting; items were deferred to the next agenda.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several administrative agreements and financial reports. Key items include a bid for road resurfacing and a survey for the county landfill.

• Survey work for McDuffie County Landfill Cell No. 2 at 514 Tankersley Road
• Bid award to All Star Concrete, Inc. for 2023 LMIG resurfacing and striping
• Third Modification for GEFA Loan No. CW2020012
• Resolution 23-07 to appoint Trustees for the Health Benefits Trust Plan
• Resolution 23-08 concerning Open Record Office for the Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved several administrative agreements, including a health benefits trust and insurance contracts. They also authorized a landfill survey and awarded a road resurfacing contract to All Star Concrete, Inc.

• Approved survey work for Landfill Cell No. 2 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-07 appointing Trustees for Health Benefits Trust Plan (unanimous)
• Approved VERIS Benefits Consortium Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved Stop Loss Prepay Agreement and associated insurance documents (unanimous)
• Approved GEFA Third Modification for Loan No. CW2020012 and Resolution 23-06 (unanimous)
• Awarded 2023 LMIG resurfacing and striping bid to All Star Concrete, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved June ACO Report (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-08 regarding Open Record Office (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will meet to conduct business regarding a waste management contract and mid-year budget amendments. The body will also consider an appointment to the Planning and Zoning Board.

• Waste Management Contract
• 2023 Mid-Year Budget Amendments
• Planning and Zoning Board Appointment – Bud Lunceford

The Council approved new residential and commercial waste service contracts with Waste Management, including rate increases to help offset a Solid Waste Department shortfall. The board also approved mid-year budget amendments and appointed a new member to the Planning and Zoning Board.

• Approved Waste Management residential contract with rates set at $28.00 per 96-gallon can and $15.00 for additional cans (5-0)
• Approved 'Earn Revenue' commercial waste rates as presented (5-0)
• Approved 2023 Mid-Year Budget Amendments (5-0)
• Appointed Clifford (Bud) Lunceford to the Planning and Zoning Board for the term ending 12/31/2025 (5-0)
• Approved agenda as written (5-0)
• Approved June 8, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council is holding a work session to discuss mid-year budget amendments and debt obligations for the water-sewer fund. The body will also review the renewal of the waste management contract.

• Mid-year Budget Amendments
• Water-Sewer Fund and Debt Service Obligations
• Waste Management Contract Renewal

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and vote on rezoning and setback variance requests. The meeting includes decisions on the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Policy and several service contracts. The board will also consider the appointment of a County Clerk.

• Rezoning request (R-1 to I-1) for 107.5 acres on Warrenton Highway NW for a cold storage warehouse
• Setback variance requests for parcels 0028A020 and 0028A021 on Deer Trail Road
• Approval of the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Policy
• Appointment of Carrie Edwards as County Clerk
• Agreement with the Regional Commission for Grant Administration Services

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezoning request for a cold storage warehouse and two setback variances. They appointed Carrie Edwards as County Clerk and approved the Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Policy. Several grants and intergovernmental agreements were also authorized.

• Appointed Carrie Edwards as County Clerk (Unanimous)
• Approved rezoning of Parcel 00200069A00 from R-1 to I-1 for cold storage warehouse (Unanimous)
• Approved front setback variance for Parcel 0028A020 (Unanimous)
• Approved front setback variance for Parcel 0028A021 (Unanimous)
• Approved Fiscal Year 2024 Budget Policy (Unanimous)
• Approved liability insurance renewal maintaining current deductible (Unanimous)
• Approved $15k ETHOS Preservation grant for Commercial Design Guidelines (Unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Fort Gordon for 2-mile buffer to base boundaries (Unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a zoning committee recommendation for a sign variance at 150 Main Street. The body will also review street closing requests for local events and a resolution regarding Washington Road/Dallas Drive.

• Sign Variance for 150 Main Street
• Street closing requests for Bike Ride Across Georgia, Juneteenth, and Freedom Blast
• Resolution 05-2023 regarding P.I. No. 0013258 Revised Washington Road/Dallas Drive
• Resolution 04-2023 regarding Civility
• Postponement of Second Reading of Zoning Policy Update Ordinance

Council approved a sign size variance for 150 Main Street and authorized street closures for the Bike Ride Across Georgia, Juneteenth, and Freedom Blast. The board also approved a $6,550 amendment for the Washington Road/Dallas Drive project and adopted a civility pledge.

• Approved sign size variance from 12 to 24 square feet for 150 Main Street (5-0)
• Approved street closures for Bike Ride Across Georgia on June 9 (5-0)
• Approved street closures for Juneteenth celebration on June 17 (5-0)
• Approved street closures for Freedom Blast on July 1 (5-0)
• Approved Resolution 04-2023 Civility Pledge (5-0)
• Approved $6,550 cost increase for Washington Road/Dallas Drive project (5-0)
• Adopted proclamation honoring Coach Michael Thomas (5-0)
• Postponed second reading of Zoning Policy Update Ordinance

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the renewal of health and liability insurance. The body will also consider several grants and a bid for the Waste Cell No. 2 Project.

• Health Insurance Renewal
• Liability Insurance Renewal
• FY24 Drug Court Grant
• Bid for Waste Cell No. 2 Project
• Mutual Aid Agreement with Columbia County

The Board of Commissioners approved a contract for Waste Cell No. 2 and accepted grants for the drug court and judicial council. They also approved health insurance renewals and a mutual aid agreement with Columbia County.

• Approved Beam Site Prep for Waste Cell No. 2 Project at $496,695 (unanimous)
• Approved FY24 Drug Court grant totaling $165,402 (unanimous)
• Accepted $929,457 Judicial Council ARPA grant (unanimous)
• Approved Benacon health insurance renewal Option 1 (unanimous)
• Approved mutual aid agreement with Columbia County for fire assistance (unanimous)
• Approved terms and conditions for downtown park grant (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Roger’s Veterinary Services (unanimous)
• Appointed Vanessa Etheridge and reappointed Susan Milton to the Library Board (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting for a work session to discuss several administrative and operational items. The session focuses on insurance renewals, grant funding, and inter-governmental agreements.

• Insurance renewal and ACCG-IRMA renewal
• FY24 Drug Court Grant
• Mutual Aid Agreement with Columbia County
• Waste Cell Bid
• MOU with Roger’s Veterinary Services

The Board of Commissioners met for a work session to discuss several insurance, grant, and contract items. No formal actions were taken on the discussion items, and most were deferred to the next meeting agenda.

• Entered Executive Session (unanimous)
• Exited Executive Session (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several funding requests and service agreements. The board is considering authorizations for road drainage and a one-day alcohol permit.

• Work authorization for drainage replacement on Hobbs Mill and Old Milledgeville Road
• Funding request for CVB
• One day alcohol permit for Forward McDuffie Event
• Service agreement with CorrectHealth
• Appointment of members to the Library Board

The Board of Commissioners approved several service contracts, including medical care for the jail and lighting upgrades. Funding was granted for CVB guitar repairs and a one-day alcohol permit was issued. Engineering services for flood-damaged roads were also authorized.

• Approved $473,116 lighting agreement with R.D. Brown for Sweetwater (Unanimous)
• Approved $191,195.11 annual service agreement with CorrectHealth for jail medical care (Unanimous)
• Approved $17,356 from reserves for CVB guitar repairs and additions (Unanimous)
• Approved work authorization for engineering services for drainage replacement on Hobbs Mill and Old Milledgeville Road (Unanimous)
• Approved one-day alcohol permit for Forward McDuffie event at White Hill Farms (Unanimous)
• Tabled appointments to the Library Board until the next meeting (Unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will meet to discuss a zoning policy update and the installation of speed cameras in school zones. The body will also consider a CDBG 2023 application and a library board appointment.

• First reading of Zoning Policy Update ordinance
• Installation of speed cameras in school zones
• Resolution 03-2023 regarding CDBG 2023 application
• One day alcohol licenses for Bike Ride Across Georgia on June 9th
• Appointment of Katherine Doupe to the Library Board

The City Council approved the installation of speed cameras in school zones via a contract with Blue Line Solutions. The council also authorized an application for a 2023 Community Development Block Grant and approved a one-day alcohol license for the Bike Ride Across Georgia event.

• Approved installation of school zone speed cameras via Blue Line Solutions (3-1)
• Approved Resolution 03-2023 to apply for 2023 Community Development Block Grant (4-0)
• Approved one-day alcohol licenses for Bike Ride Across Georgia camping zones (3-0)
• Appointed Katherine Doupe to a four-year term on the Library Board (4-0)
• Approved April 13, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss several administrative and community items. The meeting includes reviews of alcohol licensing for a June event and a board appointment.

• One Day Alcohol Licenses for Bike Ride Across Georgia on June 9th
• Resolution 03-2023 regarding the CDBG 2023 application
• Library Board appointment of Katherine Doupe
• Installation of speed cameras in school zones

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss several new business items, including software approval and tax matters. The board is considering updates to solid waste rates and the purchase of vehicles.

• Approval of Shelter Pro Software
• Purchase request of surplus vehicle
• FY24 MOU Archway
• Approval of solid waste rates
• Tax matter for 1041 Wrightsboro Road

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a solid waste rate increase to $80 per month to offset higher hauling costs. They also approved several other items including software for animal services, sale of a surplus ambulance, a vehicle purchase, an MOU with Archway Partnership, a tax refund, and the March 2023 ACO report. No old business or appointments were discussed.

• Approved Shelter Pro software purchase for $2,395 (unanimous)
• Approved sale of surplus ambulance to Ronnie Pilgrim for $500 (unanimous)
• Approved FY24 MOU with Archway Partnership for $15,000 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Promaster City van for $34,854 (unanimous)
• Approved solid waste rate increase to $80 per month (unanimous)
• Approved tax refund of $414.90 to Evelyn Hatcher for 1041 Wrightsboro Road (unanimous)
• Approved March 2023 ACO report (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting for a work session to discuss several operational items. No formal votes or decisions are scheduled for this session.

• Shelter Pro Software
• Purchase request of surplus vehicle
• FY24 MOU Archway
• Elections staffing
• Solid waste and building improvement projects

The Board of Commissioners held a work session to discuss several pending items, including software and vehicle purchases. No official actions or votes were taken during the meeting; items were either deferred to the next agenda or continued for further information.

• No action taken: Shelter Pro Software discussion
• No action taken: Surplus vehicle purchase request
• No action taken: FY24 MOU Archway discussion
• No action taken: Elections staffing request
• No action taken: Dodge Promaster City van purchase
• No action taken: Solid waste rate increase discussion
• No action taken: Building improvement projects update

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will review several grant programs and financial reports. They are considering approvals for a Victims of Crime Act grant and a Historic Preservation Grant with the DCA.

• FY22 Victims of Crime Act Assistance Grant Program
• Sweetwater Bid
• County’s In-Kind Contributions to Augusta Tech CDL Course
• MOA with DCA for Historic Preservation Grant
• March 2023 ACO Report

The Board of Commissioners approved a Victims of Crime Act Assistance Grant and a Memorandum of Agreement for a Historic Preservation Grant. The board also approved in-kind contributions for an Augusta Tech CDL course. A bid for Sweetwater was continued pending further information.

• Approved FY22 Victims of Crime Act Assistance Grant Program (unanimous)
• Approved in-kind contributions to Augusta Tech CDL course, including site clearing and fee waivers estimated at $60,000 and $10,000 (unanimous)
• Approved MOA with DCA for Historic Preservation Grant with a matching share of $10,400 (unanimous)
• Continued Sweetwater Bid until further information is available from engineers

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will review a one-day alcohol application for the Activities Council of Thomson and discuss the Juneteenth holiday. The meeting also includes the appointment of a voting delegate and alternate for MGAG.

• One-day Alcohol Application for Activities Council of Thomson (4/21/2023)
• Resolution 02-2023: MGAG Voting Delegate and Alternate
• Juneteenth Holiday discussion

The City Council established Juneteenth as a city holiday, starting with 11 paid holidays for employees this year and reverting to 10 in 2024. The Council also approved a one-day alcohol license for a fundraiser and appointed delegates for the Gas Authority conference.

• Approved Juneteenth as a City holiday (4-0)
• Approved One Day Alcohol License for Activities Council of Thomson for April 21, 2023 (3-0, 1 abstention)
• Approved Resolution 02-2023 appointing Rodney Dunaway as delegate and Mayor Kenneth Usry as alternate for MGAG (4-0)
• Approved April 13, 2023 agenda (4-0)
• Approved March 9, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a work session to discuss several administrative items. The meeting includes reviews of a one-day alcohol application and the appointment of voting delegates.

• One-day Alcohol Application for Activities Council of Thomson for 4/21/2023
• Resolution 02-2023 regarding MGAG Voting Delegate and Alternate
• Discussion of Juneteenth Holiday

Board of Commissioners

The McDuffie County Board of Commissioners will meet to consider several new service agreements and project approvals. The agenda includes discussions on education salaries and facility security.

• Consideration of Education Salary Adjustment
• Consideration of New Access Control Door Lock System
• Consideration of Service Agreement for Tax Assessor’s Office
• Consideration of TIA Project Agreement

The Board of Commissioners approved a TIA project agreement to complete the paving phase of the Thomson West Bypass. Other approvals included a $98,297.08 access control door lock system and a service agreement for tax bill printing and mailing.

• Approved TIA Project Agreement for Thomson West Bypass paving (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-05 regarding TIA Agreement (unanimous)
• Approved $98,297.08 SALTO access control door lock system (unanimous)
• Approved Harris service agreement for Tax Assessor’s Office printing and mailing (unanimous)
• Approved education salary adjustment for Sammy Purvis (unanimous)
• Approved March 21, 2023 Regular and Executive Session minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting for a work session to discuss several operational and facility items. The session includes reviews of insurance, building repairs, and education salary adjustments.

• Service agreement for Tax Assessor’s Office
• New access control door lock system
• Building repairs
• Sweetwater Park improvements
• Education salary adjustment

The Board of Commissioners held a work session to discuss several administrative and infrastructure items. No official actions or votes were taken on the discussion items during this meeting.

• Entered executive session for personnel matters (unanimous)
• Exited executive session (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider a request to rezone 7 acres on Rousseau Creek Road from R-1 to C-1. The body will also review a service agreement for a Grant Coordinator and monthly financial reports.

• Public hearing for rezoning Parcel 00600002B00 on Rousseau Creek Road for an RV and boat storage facility
• Service agreement with Council of Superior Court Judges for Grant Coordinator
• Monthly Budget Report
• Monthly Financial Report

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezoning request for a boat and RV storage facility and accepted a resolution to join an additional opioid settlement. A service agreement for an ARPA grant coordinator was also approved. A request for a tax refund for property condemned in 1987 was continued to a later meeting.

• Approved rezoning of 7 acres on Rousseau Creek Road from R-1 to C-1 for RV and boat storage with 100’ vegetated buffer condition (Unanimous)
• Approved service agreement with Council of Superior Court Judges for ARPA grant coordinator (Unanimous)
• Accepted Resolution 23-04 to join an additional opioid settlement (Unanimous)
• Tabled tax refund request for 1041 Wrightsboro Road to gather further figures
• Approved agenda and minutes from February 27, March 1, and March 1, 2023 (Unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The Thomson City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a zoning recommendation for 642 Matthew Street. The body will also review board re-appointments and grant and loan applications.

• Public hearing and recommendation for 642 Matthew Street zoning
• Façade Grant Application for 224 Main Street
• Revolving Loan Fund Board recommendations for Two State Construction and Augusta Coating and Manufacturing
• Water-Sewer Commission recommendations for labor costs at White’s Creek and Matthew Street water lines
• Four-year re-appointments for Development Authority and Water-Sewer Commission boards

The City Council denied a rezoning request for a personal care home at 642 Matthew Street. The council also approved a $250,000 loan for Two State Construction and a facade grant for 224 Main Street. Additionally, two infrastructure contracts were awarded to Fortis Siteworks.

• Denied rezoning request for personal care home at 642 Matthew Street (3-0)
• Reappointed Chuck Irminger and Steve Dwyer to Development Authority Board (4-0)
• Reappointed Ken Williams and Gene Thomas to Water-Sewer Commission (4-0)
• Approved facade grant up to $10,000 for 224 Main Street (4-0)
• Approved $250,000 loan for Two State Construction (4-0)
• Approved one-year loan extension for Augusta Coating and Manufacturing (4-0)
• Awarded White’s Creek Sewer Line labor contract to Fortis Siteworks for $44,961 (4-0)
• Awarded Matthew Street Water Line labor contract to Fortis Siteworks for $75,920 (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss budget amendments and changes to county holidays. The body will also consider the reappointment of members to the IDA Board and review the February 2023 ACO report.

• Consideration to approve budget amendments
• Consideration to approve amendment of county holidays
• Consideration to approve reappointment of members to IDA Board
• Review of ACO Report for February 2023

The Board of Commissioners approved adding Juneteenth as a county holiday while removing the floating holiday. The board also approved year-end budget amendments and reappointed two members to the IDA Board.

• Approved adding Juneteenth as a county holiday and removing the floating holiday (5-0)
• Approved reappointment of Gloria Thompson and Kevin Hyman to the IDA Board (unanimous)
• Approved year-end budget amendments (unanimous)
• Approved February 2023 ACO Report (unanimous)
• Approved appeal for terminated employee (vote tally not provided; Thompson and Newton opposed)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting for a work session to discuss several county matters. The agenda includes budget amendments and updates on the West Bypass Project. No formal votes are listed for this session.

• Budget amendments
• West Bypass Project update
• Hobbs Mill Road discussion
• Solid waste discussion
• IDA Board appointments

The Board of Commissioners held a work session to discuss several items, but no official actions were taken. Topics included a Juneteenth event request, IDA Board appointments, budget amendments, and infrastructure updates. Several items will be added to the next meeting agenda for a decision.

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and consider planning recommendations for two rezoning requests. The meeting also includes reviews of monthly budget and financial reports.

• Rezoning request for 45.37 acres on Wire Road and Gay’s Circle from R-1 to R-2
• Rezoning request for parcel 00510006 on Cobbham Road from R-2 to R-3 and subdivision plan for Cooper Place
• Resolution 23-03 regarding Board of Assessor’s Appointment
• Contract renewal with UGA Extension
• Approval of Spring Trash Amnesty

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezoning request for 45.37 acres on Wire Road and Gay’s Circle. A request to rezone 109 acres for the Cooper Place subdivision on Cobbham Road was denied. The Board also approved intern grants and a contract renewal with UGA Extension.

• Approved rezoning of 45.37 acres on Wire Road and Gay’s Circle from R-1 to R-2 (Unanimous)
• Denied rezoning and subdivision plan for Cooper Place on Cobbham Road (Unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-03 regarding Board of Assessor’s Appointment (Unanimous)
• Approved ACCG Intern Grant Agreements for Process Improvement and GIS (Unanimous)
• Approved contract renewal with UGA Extension (Unanimous)
• Approved March 25 as spring trash amnesty date (Unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and a second reading of an ordinance regarding the annexation of 0.41 acres. The body will also review a facade grant request and budget amendments.

• Annexation of 0.41 acres at 711 Cedar Rock Road
• Façade Grant Request for 111 Journal Street
• 2022 Final Budget Amendments

The City Council approved the annexation and rezoning of a 0.41-acre parcel at 611 Hickory Hill Drive. A $10,000 facade grant was awarded for the renovation of the historic Fire Department - City Jail into apartments. Council also approved 2022 final budget amendments and a plan to stagger elected official terms.

• Approved rezoning of 0.41-acre parcel at 611 Hickory Hill Drive to City R-1A (5-0)
• Approved Ordinance 584 for annexation of 0.41-acre parcel at 611 Hickory Hill Drive (5-0)
• Approved $10,000 Facade Grant for 111 Journal Street (5-0)
• Approved 2022 Final Budget Amendments (5-0)
• Approved motion for three elected officials to run for two-year terms in 2023 to stagger election cycles (5-0)
• Approved January 12, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission is meeting to consider two rezoning requests and a subdivision review. The board will evaluate changes to land use designations and requested variances.

• Rezoning request from R-2 to R-1A and annexation for Parcel 0T070025B00
• Rezoning request from R-1 to R-2 for Parcel 00540009A00 at Wire Road & Gay’s Circle
• Subdivision review with variances for Cooper Place on Cobbham Road

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss road department equipment, resurfacing, and consulting services for the government complex. The board is also considering a travel policy amendment and the reappointment of Butch Stadler to the Board of Assessor’s.

• Equipment purchase for Road Department
• Road resurfacing approval
• Consulting services for Government Complex
• Reappointment of Butch Stadler to Board of Assessor’s
• Amendment to Travel Policy

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding a project reduction request for the Wrightsboro Road Sewer Extension. The session also includes discussions on reserve funds, interest rates, and equipment purchases.

• Public hearing: Wrightsboro Road Sewer Extension-Project Reduction Request
• Discussion on reserve funds and interest rates
• Discussion on equipment purchase and meeting room chairs
• Discussion on consulting services proposal
• Discussion on resurfacing and Board of Assessor's appointment

The meeting was a work session where all agenda items were for discussion only. No official votes or actions were taken during the session.

• No action was taken during the meeting

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will hold public hearings and consider recommendations for three land use variances. The body will also review service agreements and a resolution to transfer Bohler Road to the Development Authority.

• Variance request for 1,800 acre solar land use at Old Whiteoak Road and Randall Hunt Road
• Hardship variance for temporary mobile home at 5519 Heaton Road, Dearing
• Special exception for personal care home at 898 Old Washington Road
• Resolution 23-02 to transfer Bohler Road to Development Authority
• Service agreement with Tyler Forms

The Board of Commissioners approved a variance for a solar farm and two other land use requests. The board also authorized software updates for finance and tax offices and transferred Bohler Road to the Development Authority.

• Approved solar land use variance at Old Whiteoak Road and Randall Hunt Road with 5-year start condition (unanimous)
• Approved hardship variance for temporary mobile home at 5519 Heaton Road (unanimous)
• Approved special exception for personal care home at 898 Old Washington Road (unanimous)
• Approved $7,789 Tyler Technologies software update with $1,558 annual fee (unanimous)
• Approved $2,352 tax assessor software module with $2,988 annual fee (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-02 to transfer Bohler Road to Development Authority (unanimous)
• Approved Chairman Newton to execute consent order with Department of Ag (unanimous)

City of Thomson Council

The City Council will hold a public hearing and vote on a signage variance for a business on Harrison Road. The body is also reviewing policies regarding purchasing and fats, oils, and grease, as well as a land annexation.

• Signage variance for Mavis Tire Store at 2226 Harrison Road
• Second reading of Ordinance 582: Fats, Oils and Grease Policy
• Second reading of Ordinance 583: Purchasing Policy
• First reading of Annexation Ordinance for 0.41 acres on Cedar Rock Road
• Election qualifying fees and advertisement

The City Council approved a signage variance for Mavis Tire Store and passed ordinances regarding purchasing and fats, oils, and grease policies. The council also set 2023 election qualifying fees and authorized the gifting of a property to the Land Bank.

• Approved signage variance for Mavis Tire Store at 2226 Harrison Road (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance 582: Fats, Oils and Grease Policy (4-0)
• Approved Ordinance 583: Purchasing Policy (4-0)
• Approved 2023 election qualifying fees: Mayor $312.00, Council $222.00 (4-0)
• Approved advertisement for election qualifying fees (4-0)
• Approved gifting property at 111 West Street to the Land Bank (4-0)
• Approved agenda and minutes from Dec 5 and Dec 8 meetings (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners will meet to consider appointments for the County Attorney and County Clerk. The board will also review requests for security cameras at the Senior Center and a salary adjustment.

• Appointment of Dave Dunaway as County Attorney
• Appointment of Nikki Milburn as County Clerk
• Security cameras for Senior Center
• Salary adjustment approval
• ACCG Family Album Publication

The Board of Commissioners approved several funding requests, including security cameras for the senior center and a publication for the ACCG Family Album. The board also approved a salary adjustment for an employee and entered the grant process for aging services. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved $11,504.63 for senior center security cameras (unanimous)
• Approved salary adjustment for employee completing bachelor's degree (unanimous)
• Approved $3,878 for ACCG Family Album publications (unanimous)
• Approved ACO report for December 2022 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 23-01 for Aging Services Grant (unanimous)
• Approved Proclamation for 2022 State Championship (unanimous)
• Reappointed Dave Dunaway as County Attorney (unanimous)
• Reappointed Nikki Milburn as County Clerk (unanimous)

Planning Commission Board

The McDuffie County Planning Commission is meeting to consider several land use and zoning requests. The board will review requests for sign, solar, and mobile home variances, as well as a special exception for a care home.

• Sign Variance: 2226 Harrison Road (Mavis Tire Store)
• Solar Land Use Ordinance Variance: Parcels 00710034, 00710033, 00720048, 00720018, and 00720006
• Hardship Variance for Mobile Home: 5519 Heaton Road
• Special Exception for Personal Care Home: 898 Old Washington Road