Morgan County public meetings in 2025

Planning Commission

The Morgan County Planning Commission will review a conditional use request from APC Towers for a telecommunications tower on 19.69 acres at 3491 Old Mill Road (Tax Parcel 012-002). The meeting also includes routine administrative items such as the pledge of allegiance, election of officers, acceptance of minutes from the November 20 meeting, a staff report on past zoning decisions, and changes to the 2026 meeting schedule.

• Conditional use request for telecommunications tower on 3491 Old Mill Road (19.69 acres, Tax Parcel 012-002)
• Election of officers (Chairman, Vice‑Chairman, Secretary)
• Acceptance of minutes from the November 20, 2025 regular meeting
• Staff report on past zoning decisions
• Changes to the 2026 meeting schedule

The Planning Commission voted 6‑0 to recommend approval of APC Towers' conditional use request for a telecommunications tower at 3491 Old Mill Road, with two conditions. The commission also elected Constance Booth as Chairman, Miles Buzbee as Vice‑Chairman, and Tara Cooner as Secretary, each unanimously. The November 20, 2025 minutes were approved 5‑0, and the regular meeting time was changed to 6:00 p.m. starting February 2026. The January 2026 meeting was cancelled due to no applications.

• Recommend approval of telecom tower conditional use with conditions (6-0)
• Elect Constance Booth as Chairman (unanimous)
• Elect Miles Buzbee as Vice‑Chairman (unanimous)
• Elect Tara Cooner as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approve November 20, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Change regular meeting time to 6:00 p.m. (unanimous)
• Cancel January 2026 meeting due to lack of applications

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners approved using SPLOST funds to cover the building portion of a $496,557 recycling and waste diversion grant, pending award from the Georgia Environmental Protection Division. The board also adopted a tax levy resolution, declined to require mobile‑home decals, and approved a quit‑claim deed transferring Andrews Park to the City of Madison. Additional actions included confirming a DHS transit contract with Verida and appointing two members to the Tax Assessor Board.

• Resolution 2025-RES-018 – BOE Tax Levy Resolution adopted
• Resolution 2025-RES-017 – Decision not to require mobile‑home decals
• Quit‑claim deed transferring Andrews Park (formerly Wellington Park) to the City of Madison
• Approval of SPLOST funds to meet the $250,000 county match for a $496,557 recycling grant
• Approval of Verida contract to continue DHS coordinated transportation service trips

The Board approved a quit‑claim deed giving the City of Madison full ownership of Andrews Park (formerly Wellington Park). It also adopted a resolution opting out of mobile‑home decal requirements, adopted the Board of Education tax‑levy resolution, and granted Georgia Power an easement for pole anchors. Decisions on new members for the Development Authority and Health Board were tabled until the January 6, 2025 meeting.

• Approved quit‑claim deed transferring Andrews Park to City of Madison (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑RES‑017 opting out of mobile‑home decal requirement (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑RES‑018 Board of Education tax‑levy resolution (unanimous)
• Approved Georgia Power easement at 2480 Athens Hwy (unanimous)
• Tabled Development Authority board appointments until Jan 6 2025 (unanimous)
• Tabled Health Board appointment decision until Jan 6 2025 (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors will review the minutes from October 28, 2025, and present the end-of-year assessment level percentages for 2025. Members will discuss the status of 15 corrected assessment notices, with the appeal deadline on 12/12/25. Briefings will be given on TruRoll, Eagleview, qualifying timber property, and House Bill 581 inflationary rate. The board will consider a letter requesting approval of the C4 & X4 homestead exemption status.

• Approval of C4 & X4 homestead exemption status letter
• Review of corrected assessment notices (appeal deadline 12/12/25)
• TruRoll briefing by Ms. Julie McCart
• Eagleview briefing by Ms. Julie McCart
• House Bill 581 inflationary rate briefing by Robert Bailey

The Board of Assessors approved several items, including the October 2025 minutes and a $25,000 minimum starting amount for improvements on homestead values. They also approved two notification letters for homestead status reviews and a three‑year income review letter for C4 and X4 homestead properties. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved October 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved $25,000 minimum starting amount for homestead improvements (all in favor)
• Approved homestead notification letters (all in favor)
• Approved three‑year homestead income review letter (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners approved a Charter Broadband Infrastructure Agreement costing $207,000 to extend fiber to 93 county locations. A budget amendment was adopted to transfer $103,500 to fund the agreement. The meeting also approved an MOU with the Humane Society, reappointed several board members, and considered other new business items.

• Charter Broadband Infrastructure Agreement – total cost $207,000 for 93 locations
• Budget amendment – transfer $103,500 from broadband fund to IT‑Professional Services
• MOU approval between Animal Services and Humane Society of Morgan County
• DHS contract change from NEGRC to Verida
• Additional School Resource Officer request

The Board approved a set of amendments to Chapter 7.2 of the Morgan County Zoning Ordinance, changing minimum acreage, allowing separate power meters, and prohibiting short‑term rentals for accessory dwellings; the motion passed 3‑1. Commissioners also appointed Jay Moon and Kevin Hanville to the Tax Assessor Board for four‑year terms. The Verida contract to continue DHS service trips and the 2026 Alcoholic Beverage Licenses (contingent on required documents) were each approved unanimously. The Board voted to table the athletic infield renovation project and approved use of SPLOST funds for a recycling‑and‑waste diversion grant.

• Approved revisions to Chapter 7.2 accessory dwelling rules (3-1)
• Appointed Jay Moon and Kevin Hanville to Tax Assessor Board (unanimous)
• Approved Verida contract for DHS service trips (unanimous)
• Approved 2026 Alcoholic Beverage Licenses contingent on documentation (unanimous)
• Approved use of SPLOST funds for recycling grant if awarded (unanimous)
• Tabled decision on athletic infield renovations (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Morgan County Planning Commission will review a text amendment to Chapter 7.2 of the Zoning Ordinance submitted by Dana Miles. The proposal seeks to raise the maximum size of detached accessory dwellings from the current 1,200 square feet to 2,500 square feet and to modify requirements for shared driveways and electrical meters. Staff have been directed to research new ordinance language, including a possible 50% of primary‑dwelling size rule, with recommendations due in January 2026. The agenda also notes the county’s existing limits and how they compare with neighboring jurisdictions.

• Dana Miles requests a text amendment to increase the accessory dwelling maximum from 1,200 sq ft to 2,500 sq ft of conditioned space.
• The amendment proposes removing the requirement that the accessory dwelling share the same electrical service meter as the primary dwelling.
• Proposed language would allow detached accessory dwellings up to 2,500 sq ft, with larger units requiring a conditional use permit.
• Staff were instructed to research and draft new ordinance language, including a 50% of primary‑dwelling size rule, for presentation in January 2026.
• The staff report compares Morgan County’s 1,200 sq ft limit with limits in nearby counties (e.g., Walton 800 sq ft, Oconee 50% of primary dwelling).

The commission approved the October 23, 2025 meeting minutes by a 5‑0 vote. It unanimously recommended approval of a text amendment adding a farmers market stand to the R1 district in the Buckhead Zoning Ordinance, with a 5‑0 vote. It then unanimously recommended denial of the proposed text amendment to Chapter 7.2 of the Morgan County Zoning Ordinance, with a 4‑0 vote.

• Approved October 23, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Recommended approval of farmers market stand amendment to R1 district in Buckhead Zoning Ordinance (5-0)
• Recommended denial of text amendment to Chapter 7.2 accessory dwelling ordinance (4-0)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The commissioners will consider a charter broadband agreement, a budget amendment, and approve a memorandum of understanding that lets Animal Services use the Humane Society’s medical room for spay/neuter surgeries at $20 or $45 per animal. They will also review applications for several county boards and accept public comments on the agenda items.

• Charter Broadband Agreement
• Budget Amendment
• Approval of MOU between Morgan County Animal Services and Humane Society of Morgan County ($20 or $45 per animal)
• Advantage Behavior Health System Board Applications
• Board of Elections and Registration Applications

The commissioners unanimously approved a Charter Broadband Infrastructure Agreement costing $207,000 and a budget amendment moving $103,500 to the IT‑Professional Services fund. They also approved an MOU allowing Animal Services to use the Humane Society’s medical facilities. Several board members were reappointed or newly appointed, including positions on the Advantage Behavior Health System, Board of Elections, Council on Aging, East Central Mental Health, and Planning Commission.

• Approved Charter Broadband Infrastructure Agreement ($207,000) (unanimous)
• Approved budget amendment transferring $103,500 to IT‑Professional Services (unanimous)
• Approved MOU with Humane Society of Morgan County for Animal Services (unanimous)
• Reappointed Frusanna Hayes to Advantage Behavior Health System Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Stenette Brooks, Kirby Hayes, Timothy Carter to Board of Elections and Registration (unanimous)
• Reappointed Janice Knight and appointed Andrea Barlow to Council on Aging Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Jamie Waldrip to East Central Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities, and Addictive Diseases Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Michael Barnes, Clint Milford, Jeffrey Farese, Andrea Barlow to Planning Commission (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners approved a $102,530.77 FY2026 Aging Services contract and reviewed two public‑safety radio system upgrade proposals costing $3.73 million and $14.5 million, discussing a possible $5 million SPLOST allocation. The board also heard a rezoning map amendment for 2630 Eatonton Highway, a text amendment to Article 17 of the zoning ordinance for larger commercial signs, and a request for an alcoholic beverage license for Madison Mini Mart at 1010 Apalachee River Road.

• Approve FY2026 Aging Services Contract – $102,530.77
• Public safety radio upgrade options: $3.73 M (UHF LTE) or $14.5 M (700/800 MHz LTE)
• Consider $5 M SPLOST VIII funding or alternative source for radio upgrade
• Rezoning map amendment: change 5 acres at 2630 Eatonton Highway from AG to C2
• Text amendment to Article 17 (Signs) of zoning ordinance for larger commercial signs

The Morgan County Board approved a text amendment to the sign ordinance and tabled a zoning map amendment request. It also extended the Madison Lakes development agreement, granted an alcoholic beverage license, and extended the temporary moratorium on major subdivision applications to March 4, 2026. Additional actions included approving the TSW comprehensive‑plan proposal, accepting a land donation for a new fire station, and assigning $2,765,750 from the fund balance.

• Approved text amendment to Article 17 (signs) – unanimous
• Tabled zoning map amendment from AG to C2 at 2630 Eatonton Highway – unanimous
• Approved six‑month extension of Madison Lakes Development Agreement to May 5, 2026 – unanimous
• Approved alcoholic beverage license for Ahmad Vaidya at 1010 Apalachee River Road – unanimous
• Extended temporary moratorium on major subdivision applications until March 4, 2026 – unanimous
• Approved TSW as lead for the 2027 Joint Comprehensive Plan – unanimous
• Accepted land donation of 214‑A Fairplay Street for new Fire Station 9 – unanimous
• Approved assignment of $2,765,750 from fund balance for agriculture, broadband, and recreation debt service – unanimous

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review final results of BOE appeals and sign ACOs. Tax Commissioner Wendy Coe and Commissioner Ben Riden will brief the board on tax bill errors related to House Bill 581.

• Final results of BOE appeals
• Signing of ACOs
• Briefing on tax bill errors due to House Bill 581
• September 2025 production report showing a state ratio of 38.62%

The Board voted to send corrected assessment notices to the 15 parcels with errors and to restart the 45‑day appeal period, with all members in favor. The Board also approved the August 2025 minutes unanimously. The meeting was adjourned unanimously at 10:07 am. No public comments were received.

• Approved corrected assessment notices for 15 parcels and restart 45‑day appeal (all in favor)
• Approved August 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Acknowledged final round of real‑property appeals presented by Chief Appraiser (no vote required)
• Received monthly production/activity report for September 2025 (informational)
• Requested Chairman to sign ACOs resulting from House Bill 581 corrections (no vote required)
• CUVA/FLPA renewal and continuation letters mailed on 10/28/2025 (informational)
• Adjourned meeting (all in favor)
• Scheduled next meeting for December 9, 2025 (no vote required)

Planning Commission

The Morgan County Planning Commission will discuss several new business items. It will consider a text amendment to Article 17 (Signs) of the zoning ordinance proposed by Brad Kelly. It will review a zoning map amendment request by Duke Groover to rezone 5 acres at 2630 Eatonton Highway from AG to C2, and a conditional use request by Trevor Breedlove for a game room at 118 Fairplay Street. A text amendment to Article 11 (Landscaping and Buffering) was withdrawn.

• Brad Kelly proposes a text amendment to Article 17 (Signs) of the zoning ordinance
• Duke Groover requests a zoning map amendment from AG to C2 for 5 acres at 2630 Eatonton Highway (Tax Parcel 046-005A)
• Trevor Breedlove requests conditional use approval for a game room at 118 Fairplay Street (Tax Parcel R04-013)
• Withdrawn: Planning and Development request to amend Article 11 (Landscaping and Buffering) of the zoning ordinance

The commission approved a recommendation to amend the zoning map, changing 5 acres at 2630 Eatonton Highway from AG to C2 (5-2 vote). It also approved a text amendment to Article 17 (Signs) of the zoning ordinance (7-0) and a conditional use for a game room at 118 Fairplay Street with specific conditions (7-0). All motions were recorded as recommendations to the Board of Commissioners.

• Approved recommendation to amend Article 17 (Signs) of the zoning ordinance (7-0)
• Approved recommendation to change zoning from AG to C2 for 5 acres at 2630 Eatonton Highway (5-2)
• Approved recommendation for conditional use of a game room at 118 Fairplay Street with conditions (7-0)
• Approved July 23, 2025 minutes from July 24, 2025 meeting (7-0)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners approved a $50,000 amendment to the FY2026 SPLOST budget, allocating funds to the Fire Department for land surveys, soil testing, and architectural/engineering services. The board also renewed the waste disposal contract with Republic Services of Georgia, extending it five one‑year terms with a 2% rate increase in FY2027 and 3.5% each subsequent year. Commissioners approved a six‑month extension of the Madison Lakes Development Agreement to May 5 2026 and adopted the fee schedule for Planning and Development services and permits. The meeting also included a presentation of the FY2026 Aging Services contract with the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission (NEGRC).

• $50,000 SPLOST budget amendment transferred to the Fire Department for professional services (land surveys, soil testing, architectural/engineering).
• Renewal of the waste disposal contract with Republic Services of Georgia for five additional one‑year terms, with rates increasing 2% in FY2027 and 3.5% each subsequent year.
• Six‑month extension of the Madison Lakes Development Agreement (originally approved Nov 2 1999) until May 5 2026.
• Approval of the fee schedule for Planning and Development services and permits.
• FY2026 Aging Services contract with the Northeast Georgia Regional Commission (NEGRC) to provide services for older adults.

The Board approved the FY2026 Aging Services Contract for $102,530.77 unanimously. It also approved Resolution 2025-RES-015, creating the county manager office, with a 3‑1 vote. No action was taken on the public safety radio upgrade options or the solid‑waste and C&D material recommendations. The meeting was then adjourned.

• Approved FY2026 Aging Services Contract for $102,530.77 (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025-RES-015 establishing county manager office (3-1)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from Oct 7, 2025 with typo correction (unanimous)
• No action taken on public safety radio system funding options
• No action taken on solid waste and recycling recommendations
• No action taken on construction & demolition disposal recommendations
• Adjourned regular session (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners considered a resolution to extend the Madison Lakes Development Agreement, originally executed in 1999, at the request of Walton Georgia, LLC until May 5 2026. The board also tabled an updated fee schedule for planning and development services, approved the 5311 Grant Application for Morgan County Transit, and agreed to clarify language in an MOU with the Morgan County School System. Additional agenda items included a SPLOST budget amendment and approval of a waste disposal contract.

• Resolution to extend the Madison Lakes Development Agreement to May 5 2026 (requested by Walton Georgia, LLC)
• Proposed fee schedule for planning and development services tabled until next meeting
• Approval of the 5311 Grant Application for Morgan County Transit
• Clarification of language in the MOU with Morgan County School System (contingent on BOE approval)
• SPLOST budget amendment

The commissioners approved a six‑month extension of the Madison Lakes Development Agreement, moving its end date to May 5 2026. They also approved the proposed fee schedule for planning and development services, appointed Saye Atkinson to the Library Board, amended the FY2026 SPLOST budget to transfer $50,000 to the Fire Department, and renewed the waste‑disposal contract with Republic Services. All motions passed unanimously.

• Approved six‑month extension of Madison Lakes Development Agreement to May 5 2026 (unanimous)
• Approved fee schedule for Planning and Development services and permits (unanimous)
• Appointed Saye Atkinson to Morgan County Library Board, term ending 6/30/2032 (unanimous)
• Amended FY2026 SPLOST budget, transferring $50,000 to Fire Department for professional services (unanimous)
• Approved renewal of waste disposal contract with Republic Services of Georgia (unanimous)
• Approved agenda items combining extension request and resolution (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from September 16 2025 meeting (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors will review the August 2025 minutes and the August production/activity report, which shows a state ratio of 38.99% and assessment levels for residential, agricultural, commercial, and industrial properties. New business includes briefings on BOE CUVA case 009‑019, a PERCO tax‑refund lawsuit, and BOE appeals, presented by Chief Appraiser Robert Bailey or Ms. Julie McCart. The board will also receive and sign ACO documents, with public comments scheduled and an executive session possible if requested.

• Briefing on BOE CUVA case 009‑019 by Chief Appraiser Robert Bailey
• Briefing on PERCO lawsuit for a tax refund by Ms. Julie McCart
• Briefing on BOE appeals by Chief Appraiser Robert Bailey
• Review of August 2025 production/activity report (state ratio 38.99% and assessment levels)
• Board to receive and sign ACO documents

The Board approved the August 2025 meeting minutes unanimously. Chief Appraiser Robert Bailey presented Map/Parcel 009-019 and the Board approved the CUVA property. The Board acknowledged the final round of real‑property appeals listed in the minutes. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved August 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved CUVA property Map/Parcel 009-019 (approval recorded)
• Acknowledged final round of real‑property appeals (list provided)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners met on September 16, 2025 to consider several agenda items. Commissioners approved a proposed fee schedule for Planning and Development services, reviewed a Section 5311 grant application, and ratified a memorandum of understanding with MCHS. They also authorized the purchase of a Tennant T292 walk‑behind floor scrubber for $10,024.40 using SPLOST funds. All motions passed unanimously.

• Proposed fee schedule for Planning and Development services
• Section 5311 grant application
• Memorandum of Understanding with MCHS
• Purchase of Tennant T292 floor scrubber for $10,024.40 using SPLOST funds
• Approval of sheriff's office software contract with Tyler Technologies

The Board unanimously approved the agenda and the minutes from prior meetings. They tabled the proposed update to the Planning and Development fee schedule. The 5311 Grant Application for transit funding was approved. The board also approved clarifying language for the fire‑rescue MOU, pending school‑board approval, and then adjourned.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved September 2, 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 28‑29, 2025 retreat minutes (unanimous)
• Tabled update of Planning and Development fee schedule (unanimous)
• Approved 5311 Grant Application for Transit (unanimous)
• Approved MOU language clarification, contingent on BOE approval (unanimous)
• Adjourned regular session (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a software contract for the Sheriff's Office and the purchase of a floor scrubber. The meeting includes a yearly update from the Convention and Visitors Bureau and a recommendation from the Farmland Protection Advisory Board.

• Sheriff's Office Software Contract Approval
• Purchase of Floor Scrubber
• Farmland Protection Advisory Board recommendation
• Library Board Application
• CVB Yearly Update presentation

The board approved the agenda and the minutes from the August 19 meeting and work session. They voted to fund 12.5% of the cost for the Hayes Family Farm ACEP application, with the chairman breaking a 2‑2 tie. They appointed Saye Atkinson to the Morgan County Library Board through June 30, 2031. They also approved the Tyler Technologies software contract for the Sheriff’s Office and the purchase of a Tennant T292 floor scrubber for $10,024.40 using SPLOST funds.

• Approved agenda (unanimous)
• Approved August 19 BOC meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved August 19 work session minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 12.5% funding for Hayes Family Farm ACEP application (2‑2 tie, chairman vote)
• Appointed Saye Atkinson to Library Board, term through 6/30/2031 (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Tyler Technologies for Sheriff’s Office software (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Tennant T292 floor scrubber for $10,024.40 using SPLOST funds (unanimous)
• Adjourned regular session at 11:27 a.m. (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Commission and Building Authority will hold a two-day planning retreat at Athens-Ben Epps Airport. The agenda lists five broad topics—solid waste, planning and development, county buildings and grounds, economic development, and administration—but does not include any specific items for formal action or public hearings.

During the August 28‑29 retreat, the Morgan County Board of Commissioners and Building Authority discussed solid waste, planning and development, county buildings and grounds, economic development, and administration. No motions were made, no votes were taken, and no decisions were approved, denied, or tabled.

Planning Commission

The Morgan County Planning Commission will meet to review a proposed text amendment to the zoning ordinance. The discussion focuses specifically on Article 17 regarding signs.

• Proposed text amendment to Article 17, Signs, of the Morgan County Zoning Ordinance by Brad Kelly

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors will meet to review July 2025 meeting minutes, production reports, and discuss changes to meeting schedules. New business includes briefings on House Bill 808 revenue loss, a letter from Andy Long, removal of tax-exempt status for property 024A-032, and presentation of real property appeals.

• Revisit July 2025 discussion on changing monthly meeting date & time
• Briefing on House Bill 808 revenue loss by Julie McCart
• Presentation of letter from Andy Long by Chief Appraiser Robert Bailey
• Review removal of tax-exempt status for property 024A-032
• Presentation of real property appeals (rounds three through six)

The Board approved the July 2025 meeting minutes and the Final Overall Ratio for AY2025. It also approved the Ratio for AY2026 and adopted a new schedule of meetings on the 4th Tuesday of each month. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved July 2025 minutes (all in favor)
• Approved Final Overall Ratio for AY2025 (all in favor)
• Approved Ratio for AY2026 (all in favor)
• Approved new monthly BOA meeting date & time (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous, motion carried)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss budget amendments and a software conversion for the Sheriff's Office. The board is also considering the renewal of a food services contract for the jail with Trinity Services Group, Inc.

• Budget amendments
• Sheriff's Office software conversion
• Jail food services contract renewal with Trinity Services Group, Inc.

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a pre-year FY27 funding of $94,036 for the Sheriff's Office software conversion, which includes additional modules and a cloud-based transition for 911. The board also approved budget amendments, a jail food services contract renewal, and the meeting agenda and minutes. No public comments were made.

• Approved pre-year FY27 funding of $94,036 for Sheriff's Office software conversion (unanimous)
• Approved budget amendments transferring $6,787 to HR and $29,100 to Risk Management (unanimous)
• Approved jail food services contract renewal with Trinity Services Group, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved August 5, 2025 BOC meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners and Building Authority are holding a work session with the City of Madison. The meeting focuses on the North End Bypass and updates regarding Comprehensive Plan collaboration.

• North End Bypass discussion
• Comprehensive Plan Collaboration update

Commissioners discussed potential locations for a northern bypass and gave an update on the city‑county comprehensive plan collaboration. No actions were taken and there were no public comments.

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will discuss levying taxes for Fiscal Year 2026 and Tax Year 2025. The body is also considering a zoning text amendment regarding non-conforming uses and several vehicle purchases.

• Resolution 2025-RES-013 to levy taxes for Fiscal Year 2026 and Tax Year 2025
• Proposed text amendment to Article 8, Non-conforming Uses, of the Zoning Ordinance
• GA Food Services Contract for FY26
• Purchase of a fire engine
• Purchase of vehicles for Public Works and Animal Services

The Board of Commissioners approved Resolution 2025‑RES‑013, authorizing the tax levy for fiscal year 2026 and tax year 2025, with a unanimous vote. They also adopted a text amendment to Article 8 of the zoning ordinance on non‑conforming uses, again unanimously. Additional unanimous actions included contracts for GA Food Services, a new fire‑apparatus package up to $1,432,950, and vehicle purchases for Public Works and Animal Services.

• Approved Resolution 2025‑RES‑013 for FY2026 and Tax Year 2025 (unanimous)
• Adopted text amendment to Article 8, Non‑Conforming Uses of the zoning ordinance (unanimous)
• Approved FY26 contract with GA Food Services (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of fire engine package (1500 GPM pumper, 2000 GPM tender, Fire Rocker) not to exceed $1,432,950.00 (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Ford F‑250 for Public Works for $56,501 plus up to $5,000 equipment (unanimous)
• Approved purchase of Ford F‑150 for Animal Services for $44,367 and equipment for $11,122.64 (unanimous)
• Approved declaration of surplus for listed equipment and property (unanimous)
• Approved agenda amendment to reschedule Farmland Protection Advisory Board item (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors will meet to review real and personal property appeals. The board will also consider a contract and a homestead removal letter related to Trueroll.

• Contract approval for Trueroll
• Trueroll homestead removal letter review and approval
• Exempt status for 043-079-A (cemetery)
• Personal property appeals presented by Ms. Julie McCart
• Round one of real property appeals presented by Mr. Robert Bailey

The Board of Assessors approved the June 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous vote. They also approved a homestead removal letter and its accompanying policy and procedure manual, again unanimously. The meeting noted that the TrueRoll contract had been approved by the Board of Commissioners. The Board acknowledged 47 real‑property appeals and then adjourned the meeting unanimously.

• Approved June 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved homestead removal letter and policy manual (unanimous)
• Noted TrueRoll contract approved by Board of Commissioners
• Acknowledged 47 real‑property appeals (no vote recorded)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Morgan County Planning Commission will meet to discuss a proposed text amendment to Article 8 of the Zoning Ordinance. This section concerns Non-confirming Uses.

• Proposed text amendment to Article 8 (Non-confirming Uses) of the Morgan County Zoning Ordinance

The commission approved the June 26, 2025 meeting minutes with a 4-0-1 vote (Mr. Milford abstained). It then recommended approval of a text amendment to Article 8, Chapter 8.5 of the Morgan County Zoning Ordinance, also by a 4-0-1 vote (Mr. Whitly abstained). No members voiced support or opposition to the amendment.

• Approved June 26, 2025 minutes (4-0-1, Mr. Milford abstained)
• Recommended approval of text amendment to Article 8, Chapter 8.5 (4-0-1, Mr. Whitly abstained)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners and Building Authority will meet to consider several new business items, including a contract for the Tax Assessor and updates to building regulations. The body will also discuss road rating software and drainage improvements.

• Tax Assessor- TrueRoll Contract
• Resolution 2025-RES-012 regarding representation of Attorney Christian Henry
• Drainage Improvements Project
• Road AI road rating software
• Changes to Morgan County Code of Ordinances Chapter 14 (Buildings and Building Regulations)

The Board approved the TrueRoll data‑service contract, approved the continued representation of attorney Christian Henry, awarded the drainage improvements contract to Cedar Hill Incorporated, and approved purchase of Road AI software for road rating. All motions passed unanimously. The agenda amendment, minutes approval, live‑stream archiving, and code‑change to Chapter 14 were also approved unanimously.

• Amended agenda to move item #7 to #2 (unanimous)
• Approved July 1 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved archiving live streams for 90 days (unanimous)
• Approved TrueRoll contract $19,700 first year (unanimous)
• Approved resolution allowing attorney Christian Henry to continue representation (unanimous)
• Awarded $152,987.89 drainage contract to Cedar Hill Incorporated (unanimous)
• Approved Road AI software purchase for $14,330 (unanimous)
• Approved revised language to Chapter 14, Buildings and Building Regulations (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will review a request from Phillip Moss to build a metal structure within the front setback of his property. The Planning Commission has recommended denying the request, noting the property has sufficient acreage to locate the building elsewhere.

• Variance request for front setback at 1570 Doster Road (Tax Parcel 027-020)
• Resolution 2025-RES-011 to create and designate Alvin White Drive as part of the county road system
• Approval of Southern Health Partners contract
• Appeal of Administrative Decision
• Discussion regarding livestreaming

The commissioners approved Philip Moss's variance to place a metal building over the existing structure, limiting the encroachment to one foot. They also denied Rodney Carter's appeal of an administrative decision, approved livestreaming of meetings without retaining video archives, adopted Resolution 2025-RES-011 naming Alvin White Drive, and approved a contract with Southern Health Partners for inmate medical care. All motions passed unanimously except the livestreaming motion, which passed 3‑1.

• Approved Moss variance for metal building (unanimous)
• Denied Rodney Carter appeal (unanimous)
• Approved livestreaming meetings without archiving (3-1)
• Approved Resolution 2025-RES-011 naming Alvin White Drive (unanimous)
• Approved contract with Southern Health Partners for inmate medical care (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Morgan County Planning Commission will meet to consider two requests for zoning variances. Both requests involve adjustments to required setbacks for specific properties.

• Variance request for a fuel station on 1.2 acres at 4281 Greensboro Highway
• Variance request for the front setback of 8.3 acres at 1570 Doster Road

The commission approved the May 16 and May 22, 2025 meeting minutes by unanimous 7‑0 votes. A variance request for 4281 Greensboro Highway was withdrawn by the applicant. The commission voted 7‑0 to recommend denial of the variance request for 1570 Doster Road, advising the applicant to seek a different location.

• Approved May 16, 2025 minutes (7:0)
• Approved May 22, 2025 minutes (7:0)
• Variance request for 4281 Greensboro Highway withdrawn
• Recommended denial of variance for 1570 Doster Road (7:0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors is meeting to review the May 2025 activity report and set assessment levels for AY 2026. The board will discuss property assessment corrections related to House Bill 581 and receive briefings on Freeport and EagleView.

• AY 2026 assessment levels: Residential 38.40%, Agricultural 39.77%, Commercial 37.43%, Industrial 0%
• Voluntary CUVA breach of 016-035-A in the amount of $23,782.00
• Assessment corrections in Wingap for House Bill 581
• Mailing of real property assessments on June 30th
• Demonstration of EagleView by Ms. Julie McCart

The Board unanimously approved the May 2025 minutes, the inclusion of all real‑property accessories in House Bill 581, and the 2026 assessment level percentages. It also denied Freeport applications for Bulldog Fabrication and Godfrey’s Warehouse, and moved the July 2025 meeting to July 30. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved May 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved inclusion of all real‑property accessories in House Bill 581 (unanimous)
• Approved Level of Assessment for AY2026 (unanimous)
• Denied Freeport to Bulldog Fabrication (unanimous)
• Denied Freeport to Godfrey’s Warehouse (unanimous)
• Rescheduled July 2025 meeting to July 30 (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will consider the adoption of the Fiscal Year 2026 budget. The body will also discuss board vacancies and a purchase for the Sheriff's Department.

• Adoption of FY26 Budget Resolution 2025-RES-010 with total budget across all funds of $49,632,973
• Sheriff's Dept. purchase of new vehicle and equipment
• Discussion regarding Wellington Park
• Vacancies for Agriculture Advisory, DFACS, Hospital Authority, and Recreation Department boards

The Board adopted the FY26 budget, keeping the general fund balanced at $30,770,875 and approving specific line‑item changes. It approved a $71,498.10 purchase of a Ford F‑150 and emergency equipment for the Sheriff’s Office. The Board also authorized the deed of Wellington Park to the City of Madison and reappointed members to several advisory boards.

• Adopted FY26 budget resolution (unanimous)
• Approved $71,498.10 Sheriff’s Office vehicle and equipment purchase (unanimous)
• Requested county attorney to deed Wellington Park to City of Madison (unanimous)
• Reappointed Heather Rhoades and Ed Pickel to Agriculture Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Kassandra LaGuinn to DFACS Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Sarah Burbach, Sally Buffington, and Cynthia Tingle to Hospital Board (outcome not recorded)
• Reappointed Russell Carter, Cedric Huff, Chris Kennedy, Rusty Ewing, and Thomas Burden to Recreation Department Board (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners will review a conditional use request for an animal processing facility. The board is also considering updates to solid waste and animal services fees, as well as a printer services contract.

• Conditional use request for animal processing facility at 1614 Mergendollar Road
• Proposed changes to Solid Waste Fees
• Proposed changes to Animal Services Fees
• Contract for Printer Services
• Resolution 2025-RES-009 to amend the ACCG 401(A) Defined Contribution Plan

The Board unanimously approved a conditional use permit for Chad Foster to operate a deer‑processing facility on 5 acres at 1614 Mergendollar Road, limited to deer processing and subject to state permits and septic approvals. The Board also approved awarding a three‑year printer‑services contract to Milner, raising solid‑waste rates effective July 1, 2025, and adopting a new Animal Services fee schedule with fee‑waiver authority. Additionally, the appeal of Rodney Carter’s accessory‑building permit was tabled until the July 1 meeting, and Resolution 2025‑RES‑009 amending the elected‑officials’ retirement contribution plan was adopted.

• Approved conditional use for deer‑processing facility at 1614 Mergendollar Rd (unanimous)
• Tabled Rodney Carter building‑permit appeal until July 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved printer services contract with Milner (unanimous)
• Approved solid‑waste fee rate increase effective July 1, 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved Animal Services fee schedule and fee‑waiver authority (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025‑RES‑009 amending retirement contribution plan (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing the proposed FY2026 budget, which forecasts total revenues of $30,770,857 and total expenditures of $30,770,857 for the General Fund. The presentation includes detailed appropriation breakdowns by department and comparisons to the 2025 original budget.

• Proposed General Fund revenue increase from $27,825,393 (2025) to $30,770,857 (2026)
• Proposed Law Enforcement appropriation of $4,236,342
• Proposed Jail Operations appropriation of $3,223,808
• Proposed Parks Administration appropriation of $1,921,353
• Proposed SPLOST Capital Projects funding of $6,110,814

The Board of County Commissioners met on June 3, 2025 for a public budget hearing. County Manager Adam Mestres presented the proposed FY 2026 budget. No public comments were made and no votes or approvals were recorded. The meeting adjourned at 10:00 a.m.

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors meets to review property assessment reports, timber property values, and homestead denial cases. The board will also receive briefings on watercraft accounts and property discoveries. No formal decisions are listed on this agenda.

• Qualified timber property value for 035-014 held per state
• LLC homestead denials M10-055 & 011-027-BA to be briefed
• EagleView property discoveries presented by Ms. Julie McCart
• Watercraft account #19922 to be briefed by Ms. Julie McCart
• Chief Appraiser to brief board on DOR digest review from May 8, 2025

The Board of Assessors unanimously approved the April meeting minutes, the April executive minutes, the 2026 level of assessment (38.47%), and the 2025 gross taxable income values for real ($2,113,169,516) and personal ($394,871,084) property. It also approved the removal of FLPA for parcel 035-014 and the removal of homestead status on LLC parcels M10-055 and 011-027-BA. The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved April 2025 meeting minutes (all in favor)
• Approved April 2025 executive minutes (all in favor)
• Approved Level of Assessment for AY2026 at 38.47% (all in favor)
• Approved Gross Taxable Income on Real Property for AY2025: $2,113,169,516 (all in favor)
• Approved Gross Taxable Income on Personal Property for AY2025: $394,871,084 (all in favor)
• Approved removal of FLPA for parcel 035-014 with no breach (all in favor)
• Approved removal of homestead status on LLC parcels M10-055 and 011-027-BA (all in favor)
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Planning Commission

The Morgan County Planning Commission will meet to consider a conditional use request. The body will determine if an animal processing facility can operate at a specific location.

• Conditional use request from Chad Foster for an animal processing facility on 5 acres at 1614 Mergendollar Road (Tax Parcel 002-031C)

The commission unanimously approved the minutes from the March 27, 2025 meeting. It then unanimously recommended approval of a conditional use application for an animal processing facility at 1614 Mergendollar Road, limited to deer processing and subject to specific health, septic and waste‑disposal conditions.

• Approved March 27, 2025 minutes (5-0)
• Recommended approval of conditional use for animal processing facility at 1614 Mergendollar Road with conditions (5-0)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will meet to discuss the FY2026 budget and the appointment of a new county attorney. The board will also hear a hardship appeal from Bonner and consider the purchase of Placer.Ai.

• Resolution 2025-RES-008: Appointing Jarrad & Davis, LLP as County Attorney
• FY2026 Budget Presentation
• Bonner's Hardship Appeal
• Purchase of Placer.Ai

The commissioners approved the agenda, removed Bonner's Hardship Appeal, and approved the meeting minutes. They adopted Resolution 2025-RES-008, appointing Jarrad & Davis, LLP as the county attorney. The FY2026 budget was presented with a public hearing set for June 3 and adoption scheduled for June 17. A motion to purchase a $23,000 Placer.ai subscription was made, but the minutes do not record the vote outcome.

• Agenda approved, Bonner's Hardship Appeal removed (unanimous)
• Minutes from May 6, 13 and special meeting approved (unanimous)
• Resolution 2025-RES-008 adopted, appointing Jarrad & Davis, LLP as county attorney (unanimous)
• FY2026 budget presented; public hearing set for June 3, adoption slated for June 17
• Motion to approve $23,000 Placer.ai subscription from Capital Fund Reserves (outcome not recorded)
• Regular session adjourned at 6:21 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners and Building Authority will meet to discuss an Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for the County Attorney. The remainder of the agenda consists of procedural items.

• Discussion regarding County Attorney RFQ

The Board of County Commissioners approved the meeting agenda without opposition. They also appointed J a rrard and Davis , LLP to serve as the County Attorney, also unanimously. The meeting was then adjourned unanimously.

• Approved agenda as presented (unanimously)
• Appointed J a rrard and Davis , LLP as County Attorney (unanimously)
• Adjourned meeting at 10:02 a.m. (unanimously)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a temporary moratorium on major subdivision developments and the 2025 road resurfacing plan. The board will also hear appeals from Phillip Moss and Troy Shumate regarding the Planning & Development Director.

• Temporary Moratorium on Major Subdivision Developments
• 2025 Road Resurfacing
• Resolution 2025-RES-007 to amend the ACCG 401(A) Defined Contribution Plan
• Appeals from Phillip Moss and Troy Shumate regarding Planning & Development Director
• County Attorney RFQ discussion

The Board adopted Resolution 2025-RES-006, placing a temporary moratorium on receiving applications and plats for major subdivisions from May 6 to November 5, 2025. It denied Troy Shumate's request to subdivide 1.96 acres of Tax Parcel 012-078A. The Board also awarded road‑resurfacing contracts to Pittman Construction and Scruggs Company and postponed the vote on livestreaming meetings. Several board appointments were confirmed, all by unanimous vote.

• Approved Resolution 2025-RES-006 temporary moratorium on major subdivision applications (unanimous)
• Denied subdivision request for 1.96 acres of Tax Parcel 012-078A (unanimous)
• Postponed vote on livestreaming BOC meetings (unanimous)
• Awarded Pittman Construction $3,777,498.38 (plus $224,205.51 for Price Mill Rd) and Scruggs Company $451,523.01 for road resurfacing (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution 2025-RES-007 to amend the ACCG 401(A) retirement contribution plan (unanimous)
• Appointed Nancee Tomlinson to the East Central Mental Health Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Janis Johnson to the Council on Aging Board (unanimous)
• Appointed Jay Homan to the Madison‑Morgan Convention & Visitors Bureau Board (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

This is a work session of the Morgan County Board of Commissioners and Building Authority, meeting jointly with the City of Madison. No votes are scheduled; the agenda covers three discussion topics: comprehensive plan collaboration, economic development collaboration, and the Floating Local Option Sales Tax (F.L.O.S.T.). The session is procedural and focuses on next steps and follow-up.

• Discussion of Comprehensive Plan Collaboration between county and city
• Discussion of Economic Development Collaboration
• Discussion of F.L.O.S.T. (Floating Local Option Sales Tax)
• Joint meeting with City of Madison at Madison Public Safety Building

The Board of County Commissioners and Madison city officials met on May 6, 2025. They discussed ongoing city‑county collaboration on a comprehensive plan and on economic development. They also talked about the Floating Local Option Sales Tax and its potential benefits for property owners. No formal actions, approvals, or votes were recorded.

Planning Commission

The Morgan County Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting on April 24, 2025. The main item is a variance request from Manjit Kaur for reduced setbacks for a fuel station on 1.2 acres at 4281 Greensboro Highway (Tax Parcel 043-111A). The meeting also includes approval of minutes and a staff report.

• Variance request from Manjit Kaur for fuel station setbacks at 4281 Greensboro Highway (Tax Parcel 043-111A)

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors will meet to review the Tax Assessor's Office 2025 operating budget and various tax exemption and homestead requests. The board will also consider the final round of CUVA and FLPA renewals and applications.

• 2025 operating budget for the Tax Assessor's Office
• Final round of CUVA/FLPA renewals and new applications
• 16 CUVA files that failed to renew
• Tax exemption request denial letters
• LLC denial of homestead

The Board unanimously approved the March 2025 meeting minutes and the new assessment digest of $2,098,338,883. It also approved new CUVA applications, CUVA/FLPA renewal applications, and CUVA/FLPA continuation applications. Exemption requests for parcels 003 052 A, 025 065 D, and homestead exemption for parcel 002 017 were denied.

• Approved March 2025 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 2025 assessment digest of $2,098,338,883 (unanimous)
• Approved new CUVA applications (059-051, 041-007F, 005-010E, 065-099, 003-044, 010-107, 036-004, 058-009R, 058-009C, 002-037, 002-039D, 054-037, 004-015, 004-016, 004-016A, 036-004Z, 026-062) (unanimous)
• Approved CUVA/FLPA renewal applications (059-012A, 021-125A, 051-013B, 045-024C, 064-007B, 003-075, 005-022, 053-056, 061-055, 051-013D, 045-055, 053-041, 064-007, 065-053A, 056-057, 009-031, 009-031E, 049-016BA, 020-066, 058-054A, 055-036, 059-012, 057-001, 053-040, 065-053) (unanimous)
• Approved CUVA/FLPA continuation applications (045-009B, 044-058D, 018-019AA, 017-033A, 017-033C, 017-033D, 001-013, 026-044B, 001-025, 001-025A, 059-026, 005-013, 024-010, 010-048) (unanimous)
• Denied exemption status for parcels 003 052 A and 025 065 D (unanimous)
• Denied homestead exemption for parcel 002 017 (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners and Building Authority will hold a special called meeting to discuss several administrative and personnel matters. The agenda focuses on staffing requests and insurance discussions.

• FY26 New Position Request discussion
• County Attorney Request for Qualifications (RFQ) discussion
• Employee Health Insurance discussion
• Constitutional Officer Retirement discussion

Commissioners reviewed FY26 new position requests from several departments and considered cost increases for employee health insurance. They narrowed the county attorney RFP to two firms, The Nelson Law Group and Jerrard and Davis, LLP, and discussed options for opening a retirement plan for constitutional officers. No approvals, denials, or other substantive actions were recorded. The meeting was adjourned at 12:01 p.m.

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will discuss an appeal of a zoning decision and the declaration of several pieces of equipment as surplus. The meeting also includes postponed votes regarding the Farmland Protection Advisory Board and the Joint Development Authority Board.

• Appeal of Zoning Decision
• Declaration of surplus equipment including a 2003 Sterling Dump Truck and 2006 International Model MA025
• Joint Development Authority Board (postponed from April 1)
• Farmland Protection Advisory Board (postponed from April 1)
• Discussion of live streaming meetings

The commissioners unanimously approved the expansion of Lake Oconee Parking, Inc. onto a second parcel (058-027A) using asphalt millings with a binding agent. They also unanimously appointed five members to the Farmland Protection Advisory Board and reappointed Robert Hughes to the Joint Development Authority Board by a 3‑1 vote. All listed surplus equipment was declared surplus and authorized for sale or disposal. No decision was made on live‑streaming the meetings.

• Approved Lake Oconee Parking expansion with asphalt millings (unanimous)
• Reappointed Robert Hughes to Joint Development Authority Board (3-1)
• Appointed Ellen Warren, Valle Ashley, Lucy Ray, Lee Nunn, and Rachel Kinsaul to Farmland Protection Advisory Board (unanimous)
• Declared listed equipment surplus for sale/disposal (unanimous)
• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved prior meeting minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and vote on a variance request from Nilgovind Das to renovate the Fairplay Grocery at 2700 Fairplay Road, including adding a new fuel canopy and three gas pumps, despite setback violations. The Planning Commission recommended approval with conditions addressing environmental and lighting issues. Additionally, the board will consider resolutions to waive certain taxes and penalties, authorize judicial in rem foreclosures, and elect a chairman and vice-chairman for 2025.

• Variance request for 2700 Fairplay Road (Fairplay Grocery) to allow setbacks for building additions and new fuel canopy
• Resolution 2025-RES-003: Waiver of certain penalties and interest
• Resolution 2025-RES-004: Authorizing Tax Commissioner to waive certain taxes owed
• Resolution 2025-RES-005: Approving judicial in rem foreclosures
• Election of Chairman and Vice-Chairman for 2025

The Board elected Blake McCormack as Chairman and Ben Riden as Vice‑Chairman for 2025, both unanimously. It then approved the agenda, the March 4 minutes, and a setback variance for 2700 Fairplay Road, attaching four environmental and lighting conditions. Three tax resolutions waiving penalties, interest, and certain taxes, and authorizing judicial in‑rem foreclosures were also approved unanimously.

• Elected Blake McCormack Chairman for 2025 (unanimous)
• Elected Ben Riden Vice‑Chairman for 2025 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved March 4, 2025 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved setback variance for 2700 Fairplay Road with conditions (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑RES‑003 to waive penalties and interest (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑RES‑004 to waive certain taxes owed (unanimous)
• Approved Resolution 2025‑RES‑005 authorizing judicial in‑rem foreclosures (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will hold a regular meeting to conduct administrative business, including electing officers and approving past minutes. The only substantive item is a variance request from Nilgovind Das for reduced setbacks on a 0.29-acre parcel at 2700 Fairplay Road (Tax Parcel 010-076). A staff report on recent zoning decisions will also be presented.

• Variance request by Nilgovind Das for setback relief on .29 acres at 2700 Fairplay Road (Tax Parcel 010-076)
• Election of Chairman, Vice-Chairman, and Secretary
• Approval of minutes from December 13 and December 19, 2024 regular meetings
• Staff report on past zoning decisions

The commission elected Constance Booth as Chairman (7-0), Miles Buzbee as Vice‑Chairman (6-0) and Tara Cooner as Secretary (7-0). It unanimously approved the minutes from the December 13 and December 19, 2024 meetings. The commission voted 5‑2 to recommend approval of a variance for the existing convenience store, parking layout and a new canopy at 2700 Fairplay Road, subject to environmental and lighting conditions.

• Elected Constance Booth as Chairman (vote 7:0)
• Elected Miles Buzbee as Vice‑Chairman (vote 6:0)
• Elected Tara Cooner as Secretary (vote 7:0)
• Approved December 13, 2024 minutes (vote 6:0)
• Approved December 19, 2024 minutes (vote 7:0)
• Recommended approval of variance for building, parking and canopy at 2700 Fairplay Rd with conditions (vote 5:2)

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors will meet to discuss the office budget and land values for CUVA/FLPA. The board will vote on tax exemptions for two specific properties and review applications for CUVA/FLPA renewals.

• Vote on tax exemptions for properties 025-065-D and 003-052-A
• Review of the Assessors Office budget
• Third round of CUVA/FLPA renewals and new applications
• Briefing on motor vehicle, timber, and heavy equipment values for AY2025
• Revision of CUVA brochure and private property entry letters

The Board approved the February 2025 meeting minutes and the February executive‑session minutes. It denied tax‑exemption requests for two properties (025‑065‑D and 003‑052‑A). The Board also approved a large number of new, renewal and continuation CUVA/FLPA applications and denied one new CUVA application (004‑001). The meeting was adjourned unanimously.

• Approved February 2025 meeting minutes (All in favor)
• Approved February 2025 executive‑session minutes (All in favor)
• Denied tax‑exemption requests for properties 025‑065‑D and 003‑052‑A (All in favor)
• Approved new CUVA applications 030‑022‑AH, 041‑007, 009‑019‑F, 029‑018‑C, 002‑037, 008‑017, 050‑008, 054‑064‑C, 055‑001‑D, 054‑065‑A, 054‑065, 037‑072‑A, 055‑001‑C, 013‑033, 018‑021, 041‑010 (All in favor)
• Denied new CUVA application 004‑001 (All in favor)
• Approved CUVA/FLPA renewal applications 041‑005, 010‑105, 010‑105‑A, 064‑007‑A, 049‑037, 043‑105‑B, 018‑047‑A, 052‑053, 018‑045, 020‑047‑C, 008‑002‑B, 008‑002‑BZ, 051‑095‑A, 051‑095‑AA, 051‑095, 037‑115, 012‑060, 012‑060‑Z, 045‑024‑B, 050‑029, 008‑002‑C, 057‑027, 008‑048‑C, 008‑048‑D, 022‑044, 015‑014, 052‑054, 026‑049‑B, 007‑032, 008‑048, 008‑048‑Z, 018‑034, 048‑014‑A, 003‑048, 037‑098, 012‑092, 012‑091, 023‑012, 028‑001‑D, 054‑064‑A, 044‑024, 028‑001‑C, 039‑025, 030‑056, 022‑040 (All in favor)
• Approved CUVA/FLPA continuation applications 002‑014, 030‑022‑AC, 021‑088‑BD, 016‑028, 032‑013‑E, 003‑028‑B, 006‑012, 029‑073, 051‑064, 002‑034, 002‑035, 016‑011‑DA, 016‑011‑D, 027‑015‑BA, 006‑055, 031‑109, 025‑013, 038‑004‑A, 002‑011‑B, 054‑064, 025‑013‑B, 029‑052, 029A‑008, 021‑008, 026‑038, 026‑041, 040‑017, 019‑018 (All in favor)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous vote)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners meeting scheduled for March 18, 2025, has been cancelled. The next meeting is scheduled for April 1, 2025, at 10:00 a.m.

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Morgan County Board of Commissioners will consider a budget resolution (2025-RES-002) and a request for an alcoholic beverage license at 4420 Buckhead Road. Other agenda items include roof replacements, a Joint Development Authority Board matter, and a discussion of a County Attorney RFQ. The meeting also includes public comments and commissioner comments.

• Budget Resolution 2025-RES-002
• Alcoholic beverage license request by Lauren McCullers at 4420 Buckhead Road
• Roof replacements (no further details provided)
• Joint Development Authority Board item
• County Attorney RFQ discussion

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved Budget Resolution 2025-RES-002, using $341,000 from the fund balance to cover a shortfall from the Classification and Compensation Plan, increasing the FY25 budget to $28,166,393. They also approved an alcoholic beverage license for Lauren McCullers at 4420 Buckhead Road, contingent on a background check, and awarded a roof replacement contract to Georgia Unlimited Roofing for $88,722 plus a $4,400 contingency. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included procedural items and reports.

• Approved Budget Resolution 2025-RES-002 to fund compensation plan with $341,000 from fund balance (unanimous)
• Approved alcoholic beverage license for Lauren McCullers at 4420 Buckhead Road, contingent on background check (unanimous)
• Awarded roof replacement project to Georgia Unlimited Roofing, LLC for $88,722 plus $4,400 contingency (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as presented (unanimous)
• Approved February 18, 2025 minutes with correction (unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors will discuss a proposed 3% increase in CUVA values, a vehicle revaluation policy, and the 33.13% level of assessment for utilities. The board will also receive updates on the completed EagleView fly over, completed pre-interviews for the office administrator position, and a final value for a 2020 utility appeal by Caterparrot.

• Proposed CUVA values increasing by 3%
• Vehicle revaluation policy presented by board chairman John Artz
• 2024 level of assessment for utilities is 33.13%
• Final value for year 2020 appeal of utilities by Caterparrot to be briefed
• Last day to appeal pre-bill mobile home values was February 17, 2025

The Morgan County Board of Assessors approved a new vehicle revaluation policy and numerous CUVA/FLPA applications, while denying two CUVA applications and tabling one for further review. The board also noted the completion of the EagleView countywide flyover and the hiring of a new office administrator.

• Approved new vehicle revaluation policy (unanimous)
• Approved 23 new CUVA applications (unanimous)
• Denied 2 new CUVA applications (unanimous)
• Tabled CUVA application 030-022-AH for goat agricultural use
• Approved 46 CUVA/FLPA renewal applications (unanimous)
• Approved 31 CUVA/FLPA continuation applications (unanimous)
• Approved January 2024 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the adoption of a new Classification and Compensation Plan and a specific request to implement 'Plan A' for Sheriff's Office personnel. The meeting also includes discussions on purchasing policy and various county maintenance and equipment needs.

• Adoption of Classification and Compensation Plan
• Implementation of Job Classification and Compensation Plan A for Sheriff's Office personnel
• FY26 purchase of Sheriff's Office vehicles
• Roof replacement at PSC
• First Responder PTSD Program Resolution

The Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted Plan A of the job classification and compensation study, setting salaries at 105% of the labor market for all county employees, at a total cost of $1,119,502.87. A separate motion to implement Plan A for Sheriff's Office personnel only failed 1-0 because one commissioner deferred. The board also approved several other items, including a roof replacement contract, vehicle purchases, and a PTSD program resolution.

• Adopted Plan A compensation for all county employees (unanimous)
• Failed to implement Plan A for Sheriff's Office only (1-0)
• Approved Resolution 2025-RES-001 for PTSD First Responder Program (unanimous)
• Approved ESRI licensing increase from $12,000 to $18,200 (unanimous)
• Declared surplus equipment and vehicles (unanimous)
• Awarded roof replacement to Georgia Unlimited Roofing for $305,757 plus $30,575 contingency (unanimous)
• Approved pre-purchase of 4 Chevrolet Tahoes up to $340,000 (unanimous)
• Appointed Sandra Cruce to Northeast Georgia Aging Services Advisory Council (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the implementation of a Job Classification and Compensation Plan for Sheriff's Office personnel. The meeting also includes reviews of software licensing and a resolution for a First Responder PTSD program.

• Request to implement Job Classification and Compensation Plan A for Sheriff's Office personnel
• ESRI Licensing Software quotation totaling $90,600.00
• First Responder PTSD Program Resolution
• Declaration of surplus property

The Board unanimously amended the agenda to add a discussion-only item on the county's Purchasing Policy, moving public comments and commissioner comments to later agenda items. A request by Sheriff Tyler Hooks to implement a job classification and compensation plan (Plan A) for Sheriff's Office personnel was discussed but no vote was taken, effectively tabling it. The Board approved the January 7, 2025 minutes in a 2-1 vote, with Commissioner Riden dissenting.

• Amended agenda to add purchasing policy discussion (unanimous)
• Approved January 7, 2025 minutes (2-1)
• Discussed sheriff's office pay plan; no vote taken

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors monthly meeting originally set for January 22 has been rescheduled to January 24, 2025 at 10:00 AM. The agenda contains no specific items and is marked as a placeholder to be updated after the meeting. This is a procedural meeting with no publicly listed decisions or discussions.

• Meeting rescheduled from January 22 to January 24, 2025
• No agenda items provided prior to the meeting

Board of Assessors

The Morgan County Board of Assessors will hold its monthly meeting to elect a chairman and secretary for 2025, reaffirm board members, and approve November 2024 minutes. New business includes accepting CUVA/FLPA renewal applications with a $25 fee from Jan 1 to Apr 1, 2025, reviewing new homestead and military 100% disabled homestead exemption applications for 2025, and briefing on the personal property audits vendor change to Aldean, LLC. The board will also receive the productivity report for Nov & Dec 2024 and hear a presentation on BOAT ACO.

• Vote for chairman and secretary of the board for 2025
• Approval of November 2024 meeting minutes
• CUVA/FLPA renewal applications accepted Jan 1 to Apr 1, 2025, with $25 filing fee per application
• New homestead and military 100% disabled homestead exemption applications for 2025 presented
• Personal property audits vendor changed to Aldean, LLC; briefed by Julie McCart

The Morgan County Board of Assessors held its January 2025 meeting, electing John Artz as Chairman, Chris Sides as Vice Chairman, and Heather Gardner as Secretary. The board approved new CUVA applications, denied three, and approved renewals and continuations. It also voted to contract Deen, LLC for personal property auditing and approved the November 2024 minutes.

• Elected John Artz as 2025 Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Chris Sides as 2025 Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Elected Heather Gardner as 2025 Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved November 2024 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved Deen, LLC for personal property auditing (unanimous)
• Approved 25 new CUVA applications (unanimous)
• Denied 3 new CUVA applications (unanimous)
• Approved 19 CUVA/FLPA renewals and 30 continuations (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The meeting scheduled for January 21, 2025 has been cancelled. The next meeting will be held on February 4, 2025 at 10:00 a.m.

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will discuss awarding a contract for HVAC replacements at the PSC and a multi-year software subscription. The board is also considering a resolution regarding a First Responder PTSD Program.

• Proposed contract for Patterson Heating and Air to replace HVAC units at the PSC for $105,300
• Proposed three-year ESRI Licensing Software subscription totaling $90,600
• First Responder PTSD Program Resolution

Board of Commissioners & Bldg. Authority

The Board of Commissioners will consider a text amendment request to add private use off-road vehicle dirt courses as a permitted use in the Agricultural zoning district. The Planning Commission has recommended denial, citing incompatibility with noise regulations and lack of public benefit. The board will also discuss retiree health insurance policy updates, elected officials retirement options, and a $19,000 budget amendment for imaging the legal organ.

• Public hearing on text amendment to add private use off-road dirt course to AG zoning (Planning Commission recommended denial)
• Discussion and potential action on Retiree Health Insurance Policy Update
• Elected Officials Retirement Options discussion
• FY2025 Aging Services Contract with Northeast Georgia Regional Commission (NEGRC)
• Board appointments to multiple authorities (Planning Commission, Recreation, Development Authority, etc.)

The Board of Commissioners voted 2-1 to search for a new county attorney and terminate the current attorney's contract, with Commissioner Riden opposing. They also denied a text amendment to allow private off-road dirt courses in the AG zoning district, approved an updated retiree health insurance policy, and reappointed several board members. The meeting was otherwise routine, with unanimous approvals on most items.

• Voted 2-1 to search for a new county attorney and terminate current contract
• Denied text amendment for private off-road dirt courses in AG zoning (unanimous)
• Approved updated retiree health insurance policy adding 30-year service tier (unanimous)
• Approved FY2025 Aging Services Contract with NEGRC for $102,531.31 (unanimous)
• Reappointed William Malone and Christopher Sides to Tax Assessor Board (unanimous)
• Reappointed Constance Booth and Douglas Mundrick to Planning Commission (unanimous)
• Tabled Morgan County Recreation Board reappointment (unanimous)
• Tabled Joint Development Authority reappointment, reopened applications until Feb 28, 2025 (2-1)