Oconee County public meetings in 2021

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is meeting to discuss and vote on the consolidation of several polling locations. The board will review the benefits of these changes before taking a vote.

• Proposed consolidation of Antioch polling location to Colham Ferry
• Proposed consolidation of High Shoals polling location to North Oconee
• Proposed consolidation of Farmington polling location to Bishop
• Proposed consolidation of East Oconee polling location to Civic Center

The Oconee County Board of Elections unanimously approved moving forward with precinct consolidation and polling location changes, with notices to be published in the Oconee Enterprise. The board also discussed the state's new voter registration database launching in March 2022, and the search for an advance voting location for the May primary. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved precinct consolidation motion (unanimous)
• Approved polling location change motion (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from December 7, 2021 meeting (unanimous, Hammond recused)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved the November 9, 2021 minutes, seven CUV continuations, a CUV breach penalty payment, and a CUV release with taxes paid. They also approved the 2021 appeal status report, including BOE hearing and hearing officer lists, and entered executive session to discuss personal issues before adjourning.

• Approved November 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 7 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved CUV breach penalty for Franklin, Rosemary ($8,878.74) (unanimous)
• Approved CUV release for Hicks, Barry ($4,599.49) (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 appeal status: 374 resolved, 42 BOE hearings, 31 withdrawn, 4 hearing officer appeals (unanimous)
• Entered executive session to discuss personal issues (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously approved a rezoning request by Tumano, LLC and Marvin & Gwendolyn Barton to change 4.93 acres on Union Church Road from Agricultural (AG) to Agricultural Residential (AR) for residential use. The approval was subject to one condition recommended by staff. No public comments were made during the hearing.

• Approved rezoning P21-0213 (AG to AR) for 4.93 acres on Union Church Road, with staff condition (unanimous)
• Adopted November 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met on December 13, 2021, and approved the minutes from November 9. They reviewed maintenance work orders, December training classes, and the firefighter applicant roster. A motion to approve an application from Dylan Brown, who lives outside Oconee County, was passed. No action was taken on a request for emergency lights on a personally owned vehicle.

• Approved November 9, 2021 minutes
• Approved application from Dylan Brown (out-of-county) (motion by Nelson Wilbanks, second by Jason Mauldin)
• Took no action on request for emergency lights on a POV

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections discussed but did not vote on a proposal to consolidate four precincts, tabling it for a future meeting. The board also reviewed redistricting changes and discussed a scheduling conflict for the May 2022 advanced voting location. Minutes from the November 4 meeting were unanimously approved.

• Approved November 4, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous; Hanley recused)
• Tabled precinct consolidation proposal (Antioch to Colham Ferry, High Shoals to North Oconee, Farmington to Bishop, East Oconee to Civic Center)
• Adjourned meeting at 5:34 p.m. (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review three zoning and variance requests for properties on Resurgence Drive and Langford Drive. The meeting includes decisions on jail contracts, the sale of county property, and the 2022 road resurfacing program.

• Rezone P21-0188 for 1460 Resurgence Drive (±4.80 acres)
• Rezone P21-0190 and Variance P21-0191 for Langford Drive/Langford Estates Place (±30.823 acres)
• Approval of Jail Agreement with the City of Watkinsville
• Sale of Ward and Elections Buildings by sealed bid
• Amendment to the Pay as You Throw Bag Program fee schedule

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezone (P21-0188) allowing a medical office at 1406 Resurgence Drive, and approved a rezone (P21-0190) and variance (P21-0191) for an assisted living community on Langford Drive, with conditions. The board also ratified contracts to house Oglethorpe County and City of Watkinsville prisoners in the Oconee County Jail, and approved appointments to several boards. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved Rezone P21-0188 for a medical office at 1406 Resurgence Drive with three conditions.
• Approved Rezone P21-0190 for an assisted living community on Langford Drive with eight conditions.
• Approved Variance P21-0191 allowing a 55-foot building height on Langford Drive with two conditions.
• Appointed John Thomas 'Jay' Hanley III and Doug Hammond to the Board of Elections and Registration for four-year terms.
• Appointed James (Thad) Padgett and Thomas Verner to the Farmland Preservation Ranking Committee for three-year terms.
• Appointed Rachel K. Watson and Laura French to the Library Advisory Board for five-year terms.
• Approved a contract to house Oglethorpe County prisoners in the Oconee County Jail.
• Approved a jail agreement with the City of Watkinsville to house its prisoners.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss the 2022 resurfacing and LMIG application. The meeting includes presentations on Pay as You Throw bag program changes and amendments to the Solid Waste Management Ordinance. Commissioners will also review 2022 alcohol license renewal applications.

• 2022 Resurfacing and LMIG Application
• Pay as You Throw Bag Program Changes
• Amendments to the Solid Waste Management Ordinance
• 2022 Alcohol License Renewal Applications
• Updated By-laws for Animal Advisory Committee

The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to be bound by the State of Georgia's Memorandum of Understanding on the National Distributor and J&J opioid settlement, directing the Chairman to execute documents. All other agenda items — including Animal Services By-Laws revisions, the 2022 meeting schedule, Vice-Chairman schedule, Pay as You Throw bag fee changes, the 2022 resurfacing LMIG application, Solid Waste ordinance amendments, and 2022 alcohol license renewals — were placed on the consent agenda for the December 7, 2021 Regular Meeting. No action was taken during Executive Session.

• Approved resolution agreeing to be bound by the State of Georgia's opioid settlement MOU and directing execution of documents.
• Placed Animal Services Citizen Advisory Board By-Laws revisions on the December 7 consent agenda.
• Placed the amended 2022 meeting schedule (with July 12 replacing July 5) on the December 7 consent agenda.
• Placed the 2022-2025 Vice-Chairman schedule on the December 7 consent agenda.
• Placed Pay as You Throw Bag Program fee changes ($2.50 for 33-gallon bags) on the December 7 consent agenda.
• Placed the FY22 LMIG grant application and resurfacing program on the December 7 consent agenda.
• Placed Solid Waste Management Ordinance amendments (resident-only use, no commercial vehicles, no propane/electronics) on the December 7 consent agenda.
• Placed 39 alcohol license renewals for 2022 on the December 7 consent agenda.

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously approved two rezones: a 4.80-acre property at 1460 Resurgence Drive to B-2 with modifications, and a 30.823-acre property on Langford Drive to OIP with modifications for an assisted living project. Officers were elected with Brad Tucker as Chairman and Chuck Hunt as Vice Chairman. The October minutes were adopted unanimously.

• Adopted October 2021 minutes unanimously
• Elected Brad Tucker as Chairman and Chuck Hunt as Vice Chairman unanimously
• Approved rezone P21-0188 for Resurgence Park, LLC at 1460 Resurgence Drive to B-2 with 3 conditions unanimously
• Approved rezone P21-0190 for The Fairways at 316, LLC on Langford Drive to OIP with 8 conditions, including amended condition #4 and added buffer condition #8, unanimously

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to approve minutes and review Conservation Use Value (CUV) continuations for several properties. The board will also address a CUV breach and provide updates on appeals and Caterpillar personal property.

• CUV Continuations for 9 properties including Alexandra Farms LLC and C.M. Elder Holdings
• CUV Breach for Lynn Clement (B-01-073)
• Caterpillar personal property update
• Appeal update

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved the October 12, 2021 minutes and 11 CUV continuations. The board voted to send Laurie Higginbotham's appeal to the Board of Equalization after a motion to resolve it failed. An update noted no active appeals and a paid CUV breach penalty. The board also discussed the Caterpillar amended personal property return, awaiting legal guidance.

• Approved October 12, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 11 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Sent Laurie Higginbotham's appeal to Board of Equalization (unanimous)
• Entered and exited executive session (unanimous)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The board will meet to approve previous minutes and review financial reports. The Executive Director will provide an overview of the Visitors Bureau.

• Approval of minutes
• Review of financials
• Visitors Bureau overview

The Oconee County Tourism & Visitors Bureau board approved the September 14, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously. The 2020-2021 financial audit was distributed, with no exceptions found by the CPA, and the budget was in balance through October 31. The director reported on the successful Oconee Fall Festival and haunted history tours, and discussed upcoming Christmas events. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Approved September 14, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 6:25 pm (unanimous)

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

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

• Budget report
• Executive Director report on current programs

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership will meet to review station maintenance and training schedules. The body will also discuss volunteer recruitment and logistics for the Christmas parade.

• Work orders for Dwayne and Artie
• Annual pump testing discussion
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Status of Medical Responder Class
• Christmas parade planning for L1, L8, and 501

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met and approved the October minutes. They reviewed truck maintenance, noting all engines and ladder trucks passed annual pump tests, and discussed GPS trackers and speed governing on rescue trucks. They also reviewed training schedules and rosters, and unanimously approved Hunter Hargrave's membership appeal.

• Approved October 11, 2021 minutes
• Approved Hunter Hargrave's membership appeal (unanimous)

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is meeting to certify the results of the November 2, 2021 elections. The body will also review reports regarding advance voting and Election Day precinct activity.

• Certification of City of Watkinsville election
• Certification of Town of North High Shoals election
• Certification of Town of Bishop election
• Certification of County-wide TSPLOST
• Review of Advance Voting at Oconee County Civic Center

The Oconee County Board of Elections unanimously certified the results of the City of Watkinsville General Election, the Town of North High Shoals General Election, the Town of North High Shoals Special Mayoral election, the Town of Bishop General Election, and the Countywide Special TSPLOST election. The board also approved the minutes from the October 5, 2021 meeting, with Kirk Shook recusing himself. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved minutes from October 5, 2021 meeting (unanimous, Shook recused)
• Certified City of Watkinsville General Election results (unanimous)
• Certified Town of North High Shoals General Election results (unanimous)
• Certified Town of North High Shoals Special Mayoral election and Town of Bishop General Election results (unanimous)
• Certified Countywide Special TSPLOST election results (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review three zoning and variance requests for residential properties. The meeting includes discussions on a potential broadband agreement and the ratification of an architect agreement for the Oconee County Library.

• Rezone P21-0156: 5031 Monroe Highway, ±4.42 acres, AG to AR
• Rezone P21-0167: 2601 Snows Mill Road, ±15 acres, AG to AR
• Variances P21-0168 and P21-0169: 2601 Snows Mill Road regarding access easements
• Potential Broadband Agreement discussion
• Ratification of Oconee County Library Architect Agreement

The Board approved an agreement with Charter for broadband buildout to unserved areas, funded with $1.37M-$1.7M in ARP funds. Also approved three rezoning/variance requests, an efficiency study for the Tax Commissioner's office, and several other items.

• Approved Charter broadband agreement with ARP funding (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone P21-0156 at 5031 Monroe Highway (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone P21-0167 at 2601 Snows Mill Road (unanimous)
• Approved Variance P21-0168 reducing easement width to 29 ft (unanimous)
• Approved Variance P21-0169 for street access (unanimous)
• Approved efficiency study for Tax Commissioner's office (unanimous)
• Approved library architect agreement ratification (unanimous)
• Approved 12-month construction extension for Dickens Farms property (3-0, Harden recused)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss contract amendments for the Senior Center and a potential broadband agreement. The meeting includes reviews of water and wastewater standards and a wastewater grant application.

• Amendment to the CARES Act Contract with NEGA Regional Commission for the Senior Center
• Amendment to the FFCRA Contract with NEGA Regional Commission for the Senior Center
• Budget amendment for the issuance of FY21 Financial Statements
• Farmland Preservation Committee recommendation for FY22
• New edition of the Oconee County Water and Wastewater Standards and Specifications

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners held an agenda meeting where they discussed several items to be placed on the consent agenda for the November 2, 2021 regular meeting. These included amendments to CARES Act and FFCRA contracts for the Senior Center, a budget amendment for FY21 financial statements, a farmland preservation committee recommendation, and approval of the new Water and Wastewater Standards and Specifications. The board also discussed a potential broadband agreement with Charter and a wastewater grant application, but no formal votes were taken on these items.

• Approved the October 26, 2021 agenda (5-0)
• Placed CARES Act contract amendment for Senior Center on consent agenda
• Placed FFCRA contract amendment for Senior Center on consent agenda
• Placed budget amendment for FY21 financial statements on consent agenda
• Placed Farmland Preservation Committee recommendation for Nedza Farm on consent agenda
• Placed new Water and Wastewater Standards and Specifications on consent agenda
• Discussed potential broadband agreement with Charter (no vote)
• Discussed wastewater grant application (no vote)

Library Advisory Board

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to discuss the development of a new library. The board will also review the organization's constitution and bylaws, including protocols for meetings during an emergency.

• Discussion regarding a new library
• Review of Constitution and Bylaws
• Reports from Bogart and Watkinsville Friends of the Library

The Oconee County Library Board approved the minutes of the July 2021 meeting and unanimously selected Fred Lutz to represent the board on the regional strategic planning committee. The board also discussed forming an ad hoc committee to review the board's bylaws, with Laura French volunteering. The most consequential decision was the selection of Ponder & Ponder as architects for the new library at Wire Park, as reported by Chairman Campbell.

• Approved July 2021 minutes with correction to spelling of Ms. Craft's name
• Selected Ponder & Ponder as architects for new Oconee County Library at Wire Park
• Unanimously selected Fred Lutz as board representative on regional strategic planning committee
• Discussed forming ad hoc committee to review bylaws; Laura French volunteered

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to consider two residential rezoning requests and two plats for a commercial project. The body will also review minutes from the August 16, 2021 meeting.

• Rezone #P21-0156: 4.42 acres at 5031 Monroe Highway from AG to AR for residential use
• Rezone #P21-0167: 15.00 acres at 2601 Snows Mill Road from AG to AR for residential use
• Preliminary Plat for Alison Creek Farm: 3.27 acres at 4791 Macon Highway, Bishop (Commercial)
• Final Plat for Alison Creek Farm: 3.27 acres at 4791 Macon Highway, Bishop (Commercial)

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously approved two rezoning requests: Sapphire Properties (4.42 acres at 5031 Monroe Highway) from Agricultural to Agricultural Residential, and Rosemary Franklin (15 acres at 2601 Snows Mill Road) from Agricultural to Agricultural Residential, both subject to staff conditions. The commission also unanimously approved the preliminary and final plats for Allison Creek Farms. No items were denied or tabled.

• Approved rezoning P21-0156 for Sapphire Properties, 4.42 acres at 5031 Monroe Highway, AG to AR, with staff conditions (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning P21-0167 for Rosemary Franklin, 15 acres at 2601 Snows Mill Road, AG to AR, with staff conditions (unanimous)
• Approved preliminary plat for Allison Creek Farms (unanimous)
• Approved final plat for Allison Creek Farms (unanimous)
• Adopted August 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Amended agenda to add item (unanimous)
• Appointed Nominating Committee: Steven Strickland and Scott Green
• Appointed Chris Herring to post 8

Animal Services Meeting

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

• Approval of July 7, 2021 minutes
• Manager of Animal Services updates on ordinances, bylaws, and projects
• Review of animal services statistics and events
• Emergency preparedness discussion

The Oconee County Animal Services Advisory Board approved the July 7, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections. Manager Crystal Berisko reported that ordinance revisions are being drafted, including adding 'adequate medical care' to the Humane Manner definition, amending animal limits per acreage, and addressing breeding without a license. Bylaws were approved by the County Attorney and will be sent to the Board of Commissioners for adoption. No formal votes were taken on these items; they were discussed as updates.

• Approved July 7, 2021 meeting minutes with corrections (unanimous)
• Adjourned meeting at 7:03 pm (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review Conservation Use Value (CUV) continuations, releases, and breaches. The board will also review 2021 utility assessment notices and provide updates on appeals, including the Athens Ridge appeal.

• 2021 utility assessment notices including Walton EMC ($36,149,569) and Georgia Transmission ($29,341,011)
• Georgia Power utility assessment notice of $16,077,400
• CUV continuations for multiple parcels including Shiver Family Home ($1,500.00)
• CUV release for Ruth Brannen (B-02-084B)
• Athens Ridge appeal update

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved the September 14, 2021 minutes, multiple CUV continuations, one CUV release, one CUV breach, and the 2021 utility assessments. They also approved an ABOS boat value increase, accepted an update on 2021 appeals, and agreed to a 2% discount on the Athens Ridge appeal, setting a new total value of $45,007,652. The board then entered and exited executive session before adjourning.

• Approved September 14, 2021 minutes
• Approved 14 CUV continuations (e.g., Thurmond, Shiver Family Home, Sizemore, Brown, McRee Properties, Lawson, Galvin, Elder-Johnson)
• Approved CUV release for Brannen, Ruth & ETAL
• Approved CUV breach for Cawley, Jennifer & ETAL (breach already paid)
• Approved 2021 utility assessments (e.g., Georgia Power $16,077,400, Jackson EMC $24,857, Georgia Transmission $29,341,011)
• Approved ABOS boat value increase
• Approved 41 30-day notices and 27 BOE appeals
• Agreed to 2% discount on Athens Ridge appeal, new total value $45,007,652

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The station chiefs approved the September 14, 2021 minutes. They reviewed outstanding work orders, new truck maintenance books, and landscape maintenance specifications. The chiefs also reviewed the October training schedule, rosters for potential firefighters and medical responders, and monthly training hours.

• Approved September 14, 2021 minutes
• Reviewed outstanding work orders for Fire Rescue
• Reviewed new truck maintenance books and encouraged monthly completion of forms
• Reviewed landscape maintenance specifications for fire stations
• Reviewed October training schedule
• Reviewed potential firefighter and medical responder rosters
• Reviewed September 2021 training hours
• Reviewed Fall Medical Responder course roster

Board of Elections Meeting

The board unanimously approved the August 4, 2021 meeting minutes, with Jay Hanley recusing himself. They discussed the upcoming November 2, 2021 election, including advance voting dates, absentee ballot deadlines, and early scanning. Logic and accuracy testing for the election is complete. No formal decisions were made on new business items.

• Approved August 4, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous, Hanley recused)
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the abandonment of rights-of-way for the Jennings Mill Extension. The body will also consider approvals for waste management plans and construction contracts.

• Public hearing on Jennings Mill Extension Rights-of-Way Abandonment
• Resolution to update the Northeast Georgia Solid Waste Management Plan
• Contract Manager at Risk RFQ/RFP award for Administrative Building Construction
• RFP #22-08-002 for Collection and Disposal of Recyclable Materials

The Board of Commissioners approved the abandonment of rights-of-way on Jennings Mill Extension, contingent on the property owner relocating the roadway and conveying the new roads to the county. The board also approved the consent agenda, which included adopting the Northeast Georgia Solid Waste Management Plan update, awarding a contract for the Administrative Building Construction, and approving a recycling collection RFP. Proclamations were presented for National 4-H Week and the Oconee County Lions Club 50th Anniversary.

• Approved rights-of-way abandonment on Jennings Mill Extension (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including solid waste plan update, building construction contract, and recycling RFP (5-0)
• Approved October 5, 2021 agenda (5-0)
• Approved minutes of September 7, 14, and 28 meetings (5-0)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Board of Education and Board of Commissioners are meeting for a joint session. The discussion will cover organizational overviews, the budget process, and strategic planning for both bodies.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners held an agenda meeting and approved the meeting agenda. No final decisions were made; three items were placed on the consent agenda for the October 5, 2021 regular meeting: adopting the Northeast Georgia Regional Solid Waste Management Plan, awarding Mathias Corporation as construction manager at risk for the County Administrative Building, and awarding Roll Off Systems the recyclable materials collection and disposal contract.

• Approved September 28, 2021 agenda (unanimous)
• Placed solid waste management plan resolution on consent agenda for Oct 5
• Placed Mathias Corporation construction manager at risk award on consent agenda for Oct 5
• Placed Roll Off Systems recycling collection award on consent agenda for Oct 5

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to review program and park updates. The agenda includes a presentation from Oconee MTB representatives Mark Yount and Julia Lance.

• Presentation by Oconee MTB representatives Mark Yount and Julia Lance
• Review of program and park updates

The Oconee County Citizens Advisory Committee on Recreation Affairs met on September 21, 2021, and unanimously approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the July 20, 2021 meeting. The committee heard from Oconee Mountain Bike coaches about the club's history, current teams, and upcoming race. Staff provided program updates, including final fall registration numbers and winter registration dates. No substantive decisions were made beyond the routine approvals.

• Approved the meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved the July 20, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adjourned the meeting (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved the August 10, 2021 minutes, welcomed new member Sidney Bell, and unanimously approved eight CUV continuations. They also approved a letter to the owner of parcel B-04-0020 regarding qualifying use, amended the non-disclosure application to remove the deadline, and approved appeal status updates including 30-day notices, BOE appeals, and hearing officer referrals. The board also discussed the Mike Powers settlement and entered executive session.

• Approved August 10, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 8 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved letter to owner of parcel B-04-0020 re: qualifying use (unanimous)
• Approved non-disclosure application and amended to remove deadline (unanimous)
• Approved 11 30-day notices (unanimous)
• Approved 14 BOE appeals (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding 4 appeals to Certified Hearing Officer (unanimous)
• Entered and exited executive session (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs meeting on September 14, 2021, was primarily procedural and informational. The chiefs approved the August 9, 2021 minutes. They reviewed maintenance work orders, September training schedules, and rosters, and noted upcoming vehicle extrication classes and the status of new equipment. No substantive policy decisions or votes were recorded.

• Approved August 9, 2021 meeting minutes
• Requested work order for Station 5 right entrance door handle
• Noted pump testing may be conducted in October on Engines and Ladder trucks
• Reviewed September training schedule
• Reviewed potential firefighter and medical responder roster; four recruits need Fire Assessment Lab
• Reviewed August 2021 training hours and membership roster lacking training hours
• Noted new Engine 201 is on production line at Sutphen
• Noted Air Truck Committee is reviewing specifications from a second vendor

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission will review the budget report and receive updates on current programs from the Executive Director. The meeting also includes time for committee breakouts and old and new business.

• Budget report review
• Executive Director report on current programs

The Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission approved proposed bylaw changes to send to the Chairman and Commission, including reducing membership from 12 to 10 members and shortening terms from 3 years to 2 years. The commission also approved the July 12, 2021 meeting minutes with amendments. No other formal decisions were made; remaining items were announcements or discussions.

• Approved July 12, 2021 minutes with changes to include all members present (unanimous)
• Approved proposed bylaw changes to reduce membership from 12 to 10 and terms from 3 to 2 years, to send to Chairman and Commission (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board approved a special use permit and two rezones for the Village at Meadowlands continuing care retirement community, expanding it by 21 acres and 101 units, with a modified condition replacing a roundabout with a multi-use path. It also approved a special use to create an additional lot, a variance for a landscape buffer, and several appointments and consent agenda items.

• Approved Special Use P21-0076 for Village at Meadowlands expansion (5-0)
• Approved Rezone P21-0077 from B-2/R-3 to R-3 (5-0)
• Approved Rezone P21-0078 to redesign Market at Meadowlands (5-0)
• Approved Special Use P21-0127 to create one additional lot (5-0)
• Approved Variance P21-0153 waiving 50-foot landscape buffer (5-0)
• Appointed Mike Floyd and Christopher Herring to Planning Commission (5-0)
• Appointed five members to Recreation Advisory Committee (5-0)
• Approved consent agenda including FY22 budget carryover and Calls Creek WWTP upgrade (5-0)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved the withdrawal of Rezone Request #P21-0136 for 1370 Ridgeway Road in Bogart, as requested by the owner's representative. Several items were discussed and placed on the consent agenda for the September 7, 2021 regular meeting, including FY21 mid-year budget amendments, a pre-construction services contract for the Calls Creek WWTP upgrade, a purchasing card program, and disposal of real property. The board also adjourned into executive session to discuss personnel matters, with no action taken.

• Approved withdrawal of Rezone Request #P21-0136 for 1370 Ridgeway Road (4-0)
• Placed FY21 mid-year budget amendments on consent agenda for Sept. 7
• Placed pre-construction services contract for Calls Creek WWTP upgrade ($110,638) on consent agenda
• Placed purchasing card program implementation on consent agenda
• Placed discussion of real property disposal (Ward Building/Elections Office) on consent agenda
• Placed acceptance of rights-of-way in Summerfield Subdivision on consent agenda
• Adjourned into executive session for personnel matters; no action taken

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Oconee County Industrial Development Authority unanimously approved three resolutions to support a new Costco location: a bond resolution for up to $16 million, a real property tax incentive resolution not exceeding $37 million, and a personal property tax incentive resolution not exceeding $8.5 million. The project, planned on 23 acres near Hobby Lobby, includes a 155,000-square-foot store, 699 parking spaces, and an 18-pump fuel center. Costco will pay for the building itself, and the county's bond obligation is limited to LOST revenue, with no further obligation if Costco closes or moves.

• Approved bond resolution for borrowing up to $16 million (unanimous)
• Approved real property tax incentive resolution not exceeding $37 million (unanimous)
• Approved personal property tax incentive resolution not exceeding $8.5 million (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution authorizing the issuance of bonds not to exceed $16 million to support a Costco store locating in Oconee County, next to Hobby Lobby on a 23-acre site. The project, already approved by the Oconee Industrial Development Authority, includes a 155,000-square-foot building, 699 parking spaces, and an 18-spot fuel center. The board also approved the agenda as submitted and adjourned the meeting.

• Approved the meeting agenda as submitted.
• Approved the resolution approving the agreement with the Industrial Development Authority for the Costco project, including issuance of bonds not to exceed $16 million.
• Adjourned the meeting at 5:27 p.m.

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously approved a special use permit for a continuing care retirement community (CCRC) and two related rezones for the Ellington Farms development on US Highway 78 and Pete Dickens Road, with conditions including a modified roundabout requirement. The commission also approved a special use modification for a property on Old Watson Road and denied a rezone on Ridgeway Road. All votes were unanimous.

• Approved special use P21-0076 for Ellington Farms CCRC (unanimous)
• Approved rezone P21-0077 for Ellington Farms to R-3 (unanimous)
• Approved rezone P21-0078 for Ellington Farms to B-2 (unanimous)
• Approved special use modification P21-0127 for Rhonda Hayes (unanimous)
• Denied rezone P21-0136 for Kyle Scott (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Oconee County Board of Health met via teleconference on August 11, 2021, but lacked a quorum, so the previous meeting's minutes were not approved. Dr. Goggans reported that Georgia COVID-19 cases for the second week of August were around 7,000, with PCR test positivity at 18-19%, and hospitalizations rising. He noted that Oconee County had higher vaccination rates than the state (52% with one dose, 56% fully vaccinated) and that cases were increasing among younger populations, with hospitalizations and deaths mostly among the unvaccinated. No formal decisions were made.

• Previous meeting minutes not approved due to lack of quorum
• Heard COVID-19 case update for Georgia and Oconee County
• Heard COVID-19 vaccination update for Oconee County

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors approved 2021 utility assessments and a new total value for the Athens Ridge appeal. The board also processed CUV continuations, releases, and breaches, and reviewed the status of 2021 appeals.

• Approved 2021 utility assessments including Georgia Power ($16,077,400) and Walton EMC ($36,149,569)
• Agreed to a 2% discount for Athens Ridge for a new total value of $45,007,652
• Approved CUV breach for Jennifer Cawley & ETAL ($22,587.34 already paid)
• Approved 14 CUV continuations and one CUV release for Ruth Brannen & ETAL
• Forwarded 27 appeals to the Board of Equalization

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors approved 13 conservation use (CUV) continuations, approved two previously tabled conservation use applications, denied one, and approved forwarding appeals to the Board of Equalization and a Certified Hearing Officer. The board also approved minutes, a late appeal letter, and heard updates on a new hire and the state ratio study.

• Approved June 15, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 13 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved conservation use parcels B-06W-005 and B-06W-006 (unanimous)
• Denied conservation use parcel B-06W-001 (unanimous)
• Approved letter to Robert Belton for late appeal (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding 44 appeals to Board of Equalization (unanimous)
• Approved forwarding 192 appeals to Certified Hearing Officer (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to discuss station maintenance and training schedules. The body will review volunteer recruit lists and the status of the Fall Medical Responder Course. The meeting also includes a status update on Engine 201 and the Air Truck.

• Work orders for Dwayne & Artie regarding truck and station maintenance
• Review of August training and monthly training hours
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Status of Fall Medical Responder Course
• Status update on new Engine 201 and Air Truck

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met on August 9, 2021, and approved the July 12, 2021 minutes. They reviewed outstanding work orders, including a fuel rail recall on three vehicles, and discussed the August training schedule, potential firefighter rosters, and the Fall Medical Responder course. No substantive policy decisions were made; the meeting was largely procedural and informational.

• Approved July 12, 2021 meeting minutes
• Reviewed outstanding work orders for Engine 101, Engine 501, and Ladder 8 (fuel rail recall)
• Reviewed August training schedule and monthly training hours for July 2021
• Reviewed Potential Firefighter and Medical Responder roster
• Reviewed Fall Medical Responder schedule and encouraged member participation
• Noted Engine 201 final inspection scheduled for late September
• Finalized Air Truck specifications; pricing due this week

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is reviewing the issuance of a TSPLOST call pending approval from the Board of Commissioners. The board is also tracking street list maintenance and upcoming candidate qualifying dates.

• TSPLOST Call issuance pending Board of Commissioners approval
• Candidate qualifying period scheduled for August 16th – August 18th
• Completion of NOACT2GE (No Activity for 2 General Elections) process
• Ongoing County Street List Maintenance

The Oconee County Board of Elections unanimously approved a call for a special election on November 2, 2021, to submit a transportation special sales and use tax question to voters. The board also approved the minutes from the July 29 meeting and reviewed voter list maintenance, including the cancellation of 357 voters for inactivity and ongoing no-contact notices.

• Approved minutes from July 29, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Issued call for Nov. 2, 2021 special election on transportation sales tax (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing and consider tax millage levies for county government and schools. The meeting includes votes on general obligation bonds, a TSPLOST referendum, and several zoning requests.

• Public hearing and consideration of the 2021 Tax Millage Levy for county government and schools
• Approval of General Obligation Bonds, Series 2021
• Rezone requests for 2011 Elder Mill Road, Jimmy Daniel Road and Vend Drive, 1060 Hog Mountain Road, and Colham Ferry Road and Greene Ferry Road
• Waste hauling services contracts for Waste Management of Atlanta and Republic Services
• Alcohol license application for Oyishi at 2061 Experiment Station Road

The Board of Commissioners unanimously adopted the 2021 tax millage rates of 6.65 mills (unincorporated) and 7.59 mills (incorporated), which are decreases from the previous year but still constitute tax increases due to a higher tax digest. The board also approved a $12.5 million general obligation bond resolution at a 0.93% interest rate, a TSPLOST referendum resolution for a $56 million transportation sales tax, and several rezoning and special use requests.

• Adopted 2021 tax millage rates: 6.65 mills unincorporated, 7.59 mills incorporated (unanimous)
• Confirmed Oconee County Schools 2021 tax millage of 16.5 mills (unanimous)
• Approved $12.5M General Obligation Bond Resolution, Series 2021, at 0.93% interest (unanimous)
• Approved TSPLOST referendum resolution and IGA with cities for $56M transportation sales tax (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use P21-0101 for barbershop home business at 1021 Greenbriar Court (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone P21-0102 from AG to AR at 2011 Elder Mill Road (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone P21-0108 from AG to OSB at Jimmy Daniel Road and Vend Drive (unanimous)
• Terminated broadband agreement with Smart City Capital (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is meeting to approve previous minutes and address new business. The primary item is the call for a special election for Mayor of the Town of High Shoals on November 2, 2021.

• Call for November 2, 2021 Special Election for Town of High Shoals Mayor

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the June 18, 2021 meeting and issued a call for a November 2, 2021 special election in the Town of North High Shoals to fill the vacant mayor seat. No other substantive decisions were made; the meeting included a director's report with no discussion and adjourned at 5:04 p.m.

• Approved minutes from June 18, 2021 meeting (unanimous)
• Issued call for November 2, 2021 special election for North High Shoals mayor (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Board of Tax Assessors met to conduct an executive session. No other public business or decisions were listed on the agenda.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a public hearing regarding the 2021 Tax Millage Levy. The board will also discuss various county-wide matters including bond resolutions, alcohol licensing, and waste hauling services.

• Public Hearing of the 2021 Tax Millage Levy
• Alcohol License Application for Oyishi at 2061 Experiment Station Road
• Bond Resolution for Georgia General Obligation Bonds, series 21
• Waste Hauling Services RFP # 21-05-019 with Waste Management of Atlanta and Republic Services
• Right of Way Abandonment for Jennings Mill Extension

The Board of Commissioners held an agenda meeting with no final votes, but discussed several items for future action. Chairman Daniell announced a bond rating upgrade to AA1 and discussed a $12.5 million bond for the administrative building. The board also discussed a TSPLOST proposal, waste hauling contract renewal, and other items, all to be placed on the consent agenda for the August 3 regular meeting.

• Amended agenda to add Jennings Mill Extension right-of-way discussion (passed unanimously)
• Placed alcohol license application for Oyishi on consent agenda
• Placed waste hauling contract renewal (Republic for recycling, Waste Management for solid waste) on consent agenda
• Placed FY22 Aging Services contract with Northeast Georgia Regional Commission on consent agenda
• Placed FY22 Senior Center Transportation Agreement on consent agenda
• Placed contract modification with C.W. Matthews for FY21 resurfacing ($149,677.96) on consent agenda
• Placed Jennings Mill Extension right-of-way abandonment on consent agenda

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Farmland Preservation Committee is meeting to discuss the 2022 Agricultural Conservation Easement Program (ACEP) and Agricultural Land Easement (ALE). Representatives from the Athens Land Trust and the USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service are providing an overview of these programs.

• Overview of 2022 ACEP-ALE program
• Presentation by Athens Land Trust staff
• Coordination with USDA Natural Resources Conservation Service

The Oconee County Farmland Preservation Committee approved the minutes from the June 16, 2021 meeting. They announced that September 30, 2021 is the final date to submit ACEP-ALE applications to the local USDA-NRCS office for the committee to visit and rank. The highest-ranked farm will be presented to the Oconee Board of Commissioners at their November 30th meeting for local SPLOST funding consideration. The committee also reviewed the 2022 ACEP-ALE program requirements with landowners.

• Approved June 16, 2021 regular session minutes
• Set September 30, 2021 as final date for ACEP-ALE applications
• Will present highest-ranked farm to Board of Commissioners on November 30, 2021

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Oconee County Citizens Advisory Committee on Recreation Affairs heard a presentation from the Firefly Trail nonprofit about a planned 39-mile trail from Athens-Clarke County to Union Point, which would pass through Oconee County. The committee also received updates on summer programs and park projects, and a public comment requesting additional pickleball courts. No formal decisions were made on these items; the committee only approved the agenda and the minutes from the May 18 meeting.

• Approved the meeting agenda unanimously.
• Approved the May 18, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.
• Heard a presentation on the Firefly Trail project, a 39-mile multi-use trail from Athens-Clarke County to Union Point, with plans to go through Oconee County.
• Received program updates including summer camps, swim meets, fall registration, and new events.
• Received park updates on security cameras, field maintenance, HVAC repairs, and other projects.
• Heard a public comment from Mike Luffler requesting additional pickleball courts, suggesting conversion of HCM courts.
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously.

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to consider several land-use changes. The body will review requests for residential, commercial, and office developments, as well as a home-based business.

• Special Use #P21-0101: Barber Shop Home Business at 1021 Greenbriar Court
• Rezone #P21-0102: AG to AR for residential use at 2011 Elder Mill Road
• Rezone #P21-0108: AG to OBP for office/warehouse use at Jimmy Daniel Road and Vend Drive
• Special Use #P21-0109: Amenity Area at 1225 Stone Road
• Rezone #P21-0110: AR to B-2 for commercial use at 1060 Hog Mountain Road

The Oconee County Planning Commission approved five of six items on the July 19, 2021 agenda, including a barbershop home business, two agricultural rezones, an office business park rezone, and an amenity area special use. The commission denied a rezone for a drive-through restaurant at 1060 Hog Mountain Road. All approvals were unanimous, with one abstention on the amenity area item.

• Approved Special Use #P21-0101 for barbershop home business at 1021 Greenbriar Court (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone #P21-0102 from AG to AR at 2011 Elder Mill Road (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone #P21-0108 from AG to OBP at Jimmy Daniel Road and Vend Drive (unanimous)
• Approved Special Use #P21-0109 for amenity area at 1225 Stone Road (5-0, Scott Green abstained)
• Denied Rezone #P21-0110 from AR to B-2 at 1060 Hog Mountain Road (unanimous)
• Approved Rezone #P21-0112 from AG to AR at Colham Ferry Road and Greene Ferry Road (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review new and continuing Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications. The board will also conduct an interview for an appraiser position and discuss appeals.

• Interview of appraiser Todd Ray
• 14 CUV Continuations including Oconee Plantation, LLC and Laughing Goat, LLC
• 11 New CUV Applications for 2021
• CUV Release for Sabina Brock (B-06-037H)
• Homestead appeal and church BOE hearing update

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved Todd Ray for the appraiser position, approved 18 CUV continuations and 6 new CUV applications, denied one CUV application (Parrish), and tabled three CUV applications for further research. The board also approved a CUV release, allowed a homestead application for a parcel under appeal, and forwarded appeal lists to the Board of Equalization.

• Approved Todd Ray for appraiser position.
• Approved 18 CUV continuations (e.g., Bower, Sanders, Callaway, etc.).
• Approved 6 new CUV applications (e.g., Griffith, Ivy, Laing).
• Denied CUV application for Parrish (A-06-021).
• Tabled 3 CUV applications (Shiver Family Farms, Equity Trust Company) for further research.
• Approved CUV release for Brock (B-06-037H).
• Approved allowing owner of parcel A-02-008 to apply for homestead.
• Approved forwarding 8 appeals to Board of Equalization and sending 30-day notices for 73 real and 7 personal property appeals.

Library Advisory Board

The Oconee County Library Board unanimously approved the FY2022 budget as amended, which includes moving $41,746.30 into the reserve fund. The Board also unanimously approved $1,000 supplemental COVID relief compensation per library employee. After reviewing the Intellectual Freedom Committee's recommendation, the Board unanimously voted to keep the book 'Silence is My Mother Tongue' in the Adult Fiction section. The October 2021 meeting was rescheduled to October 18, 2021.

• Approved FY2022 budget as amended (unanimous)
• Approved $1,000 COVID relief supplemental compensation per employee (unanimous)
• Approved keeping 'Silence is My Mother Tongue' in Adult Fiction section (unanimous)
• Rescheduled October 2021 board meeting to October 18, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved April 2021 meeting minutes with spelling correction (unanimous)

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission will meet to review budget reports and program updates. The agenda includes the approval of minutes from March and May 2021.

• Budget report
• Executive Director report
• Current program updates

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to approve previous minutes and discuss station maintenance. The body will review training schedules, volunteer recruit lists, and class rosters.

• Work orders for Dwayne & Artie regarding truck and station maintenance
• Review of July Training and monthly training hours
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Review of FF2 Class Roster

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs meeting was largely procedural. Chiefs approved the June 14, 2021 minutes, reviewed outstanding work orders, and discussed the July training schedule. The board entered executive session and took action on a personnel matter, but no details were disclosed in the open meeting.

• Approved June 14, 2021 meeting minutes
• Reviewed outstanding work orders for Fire Rescue
• Reviewed July training schedule and June training hours
• Reviewed Potential Firefighter and Medical Responder roster
• Reviewed FF2 schedule and roster
• Discussed guidelines for Life Flight and Mutual Aid requests
• Entered executive session to discuss personnel matters (unanimous)
• Took action on a personnel matter in executive session

Animal Services Meeting

The Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to elect officers and introduce new members. The body will receive updates from the Manager of Animal Services and discuss the progress of phase 2 of the animal shelter renovation.

• Election of officers
• Progress update on Animal Shelter renovation phase 2
• Manager of Animal Services updates on ordinances, bylaws, and emergency preparedness

The Oconee County Animal Services Advisory Board elected new officers, approved the May minutes, and received updates on proposed ordinance and bylaw revisions sent to the county attorney. The board discussed potential changes to Key Performance Indicators and upcoming events, but no substantive decisions were made beyond officer elections and minutes approval.

• Elected Kelsey Fox as Chairperson, Marsha Mitchell as Vice Chair, Heather Macbeth as Secretary (unanimous)
• Approved minutes from May 12, 2021 meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Tourism & Visitors Bureau Board is meeting to review financial updates and a monthly overview of bureau operations. The session includes the approval of previous minutes and board introductions.

• Approval of minutes
• Financials update from the Treasurer
• Visitors Bureau monthly overview from the Executive Director

The Oconee County Tourism and Visitors Bureau board approved the financial report and staff recommendations for Tourism Capital Project (TCP) funding, with Eagle Tavern restoration expected to finish by September 1 and tours resuming mid-September. The board also approved the agenda and May meeting minutes, and noted the county approved the FY22 budget, similar to FY21.

• Approved the meeting agenda and May minutes without opposition
• Approved the financial update as presented
• Approved staff recommendations for TCP funding for Eagle Tavern landscaping, contingent on opportunity
• Adjourned the meeting at 6:35 p.m.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review zoning and variance requests for residential properties. The meeting includes several consent items regarding county contracts, insurance renewals, and a merit adjustment funding request.

• One-time $40,000 funding for FY21 merit increases plus taxes and benefits
• Special Use #P21-0075 for a bakery home business at 1210 Fernwood Drive
• Variance #P21-0089 to reduce side setback for an accessory building at 1171 Hollow Creek Lane
• Alcohol License Application for The Cracker Barrel at 1913 Epps Bridge Parkway
• Agreement for Court Collection Services between i3 Verticals and Oconee County Probate Court

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners approved Special Use No. P21-0075, allowing a bakery home business at 1210 Fernwood Drive, with one condition. The board also approved Variance No. P21-0089 to reduce a rear setback from 15 to 7 feet at 1171 Hollow Creek Lane, with two conditions. The consent agenda, including a $40,000 merit adjustment and several contract approvals, was passed unanimously.

• Approved Special Use No. P21-0075 for a bakery home business at 1210 Fernwood Drive (unanimous)
• Approved Variance No. P21-0089 reducing rear setback from 15 to 7 feet at 1171 Hollow Creek Lane (unanimous)
• Approved consent agenda including $40,000 FY21 merit adjustment (unanimous)
• Approved agreement for court collection services with i3 Verticals (consent agenda)
• Approved FY22 Family Connection Contract (consent agenda)
• Approved FY22 Public Defender Indigent Defense Services Agreement (consent agenda)
• Approved alcohol license for The Cracker Barrel, 1913 Epps Bridge Parkway (consent agenda)
• Approved County Attorney to vote in favor of Purdue Pharma bankruptcy plan (consent agenda)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners held the first public hearing for the 2021 tax millage levy. The recommended unincorporated millage rate is 6.65 mills, a decrease from the previous 6.686 mills, but still constitutes a tax increase of 4.99 percent due to the increase in the overall tax digest. The recommended incorporated millage rate is 7.59 mills, a decrease from 7.616 mills, and is also considered a tax increase of 6.14 percent. No decisions were made; the board heard public comments and scheduled additional hearings for July 27 and August 3, with adoption set for August 3.

• Held first public hearing on the 2021 tax millage levy (no action taken).
• Scheduled second public hearing for July 27, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.
• Scheduled third public hearing and adoption for August 3, 2021 at 6:00 p.m.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss several FY22 service agreements and budget adjustments. The meeting includes reviews of insurance renewals, road speed studies, and a specific business license application.

• Alcohol license application for The Cracker Barrel at 1913 Epps Bridge Parkway
• FY22 Family Connection Contract and Public Defender Indigent Defense Services Agreement
• Agreement for Court Collection Services between i3 Verticals and Oconee County Probate Court
• Right of Way Deed for James Hunter
• Discussion of TSPLOST Referendum and Purdue Pharma L.P. bankruptcy plan

The Board of Commissioners approved a corrected right-of-way deed for property at 1300 Hodges Mill Road owned by James Hunter, fixing a surveyor error that included part of the house in the right of way. The board also discussed and placed several items on the consent agenda for the July 6 regular meeting, including a $40,000 merit pay fund, a court collections agreement, and a $50,000 Family Connection contract. No action was taken in executive session.

• Approved the Right of Way Deed for James Hunter at 1300 Hodges Mill Road
• Placed FY21 merit adjustment ($40,000) on consent agenda for July 6
• Placed ig Verticals court collections agreement on consent agenda
• Placed FY22 Family Connection contract ($50,000) on consent agenda
• Placed FY22 Public Defender contract ($193,979) on consent agenda
• Placed GDOT Title VI Non-discrimination Agreement renewal on consent agenda
• Placed ACCG-IRMA insurance renewal ($241,838) on consent agenda
• Placed Cracker Barrel alcohol license application on consent agenda

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will meet to approve minutes from May 17, 2021. The commission will also consider a special use request for a home-based bakery.

• Special Use #P21-0075: Bakery Home Business for Kirk and Miriam Shook at 1210 Fernwood Drive (±0.70 acres)

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously approved Special Use #P21-0075 for Kirk and Miriam Shook to operate a bakery home business at 1210 Fernwood Drive, subject to one staff-recommended condition. The applicant, Miriam Shook, stated she would bake from her kitchen and needed the special use to apply for a cottage license. No public comments were made for or against the proposal. The meeting also included adoption of the May 2021 minutes and an announcement about the next meeting's agenda.

• Approved Special Use #P21-0075 for a bakery home business at 1210 Fernwood Drive, with one condition, by unanimous vote.
• Adopted the May 2021 meeting minutes by unanimous vote.
• Adjourned the meeting at 7:17 p.m.

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is meeting to certify the June 15, 2021 City of Watkinsville Special Election. The board will review ballot totals and turnout figures. Other business includes routine record maintenance and early voting updates.

• Certification of June 15, 2021 City of Watkinsville Special Election
• Review of 392 total ballots cast
• Report of 18.28% voter turnout

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously approved the minutes from the April 1, 2021 meeting and certified the June 15, 2021 City of Watkinsville Special Election results. The board also discussed routine office tasks, including record maintenance and the upcoming municipal street maintenance deadline. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved April 1, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Certified June 15, 2021 City of Watkinsville Special Election results (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Farmland Preservation Committee is meeting to review the status of ACEP-ALE applications from the previous signup period. Members will discuss timelines for new applications and the ranking review process. The body will also plan a public meeting for July 2021.

• Review of ACEP-ALE applications from the last signup period
• Proposed timeline for upcoming ACEP-ALE application submissions
• Proposed timeline for application ranking reviews
• Planning of July 2021 Public Meeting

The Farmland Preservation Committee approved the November 13, 2020 minutes and set September 30, 2021 as the county's deadline for accepting ACEP-ALE applications to compete for local match funds. Site visits are planned for October, with farm ranking in November and the top farm presented to the Board of Commissioners on November 30, 2021. A public meeting is scheduled for July 27, 2021.

• Approved minutes from November 13, 2020 meeting (motion by Ransom, second by Padgett)
• Set September 30, 2021 as deadline for ACEP-ALE applications
• Scheduled site visits for October 2021
• Planned farm ranking for November 2021
• Set November 30, 2021 to present top farm to Board of Commissioners
• Scheduled public ACEP-ALE meeting for July 27, 2021 at 6:30 pm

Planning Commission Meeting

The Board of Commissioners adopted a $32.7 million general fund budget, with a millage rate rollback to 6.65 for unincorporated and 7.59 for incorporated areas. The budget represents a 5.8% increase over last year, the lowest since 2013. No formal votes were taken during the town hall; the meeting was informational, with updates and citizen Q&A.

• Adopted $32.7M general fund budget with millage rate rollback (reported)
• Awarded design firm for administrative building (reported)
• Water restrictions implemented for outdoor watering (reported)
• Calls Creek design underway to expand capacity (reported)
• New air and light truck under design from 2021 SPLOST (reported)
• New engine for Station #2 in Farmington expected Sept/Oct (reported)
• Paving for year completed, Hog Mountain Road widened (reported)
• Cole Springs Road barrels to be replaced (reported)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to decide on the continuation of existing Conservation Use Value (CUV) statuses and evaluate new CUV applications. The board will also consider one CUV release.

• 11 CUV Continuations including Shiver Family Farms, LLC (150.23 acres)
• 4 New CUV Applications for properties ranging from 11.53 to 17.98 acres
• 1 CUV Release for Marie Conner & ETAL (61.09 acres)

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved the May 18, 2021 minutes, 14 CUV continuations, 6 new CUV applications, and 1 CUV release. The board also voted to remove the 9th-year renewal letter policy, agreed to send an intent-to-breach letter for parcel D-02-004B, and approved a list of 2021 appeals (18 active, 5 30-day, 1 BOE).

• Approved May 18, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved 14 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved 6 new CUV applications (unanimous)
• Approved 1 CUV release (unanimous)
• Removed 9th-year renewal letter policy (unanimous)
• Agreed to send intent-to-breach letter for parcel D-02-004B (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 appeals list: 18 active, 5 30-day, 1 BOE (unanimous)

Oconee County Industrial Development Authority Meeting

The Industrial Development Authority will meet to approve the 2022 budget. Members will also discuss the renewal of insurance through the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia.

• Approval of 2022 Budget
• Insurance renewal discussion with the Association of County Commissioners of Georgia (ACCG)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to discuss station maintenance and training schedules. The body will review volunteer recruitment and grant awards from the ACCG and Ga. EMS Association.

• Work orders for Dwayne and Artie
• Review of June Training and volunteer recruit list
• Review of hose testing and SOG on alarm activations response
• Discussion of reserve engine and tanker truck numbers
• Review of grants awarded by ACCG and Ga. EMS Association

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met on June 14, 2021, and approved the May 10 minutes. They discussed maintenance issues, reviewed the June training schedule and recruit roster, and noted receipt of grants totaling $8,500. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was procedural and informational.

• Approved May 10, 2021 minutes
• Noted maintenance issues: Station 6 rear door remotes to be repaired, Station 4 siding to be checked
• Reviewed June training schedule and recruit roster
• Discussed hose testing protocol and SOG for alarm activations
• Discussed procedure for announcing reserve engine/tanker numbers
• Noted receipt of grants: $6,000 turnout gear, $2,500 disinfecting systems

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will hold a second public hearing and consider adopting the FY22 Budget. The body will also review several zoning requests, board appointments, and construction contracts.

• Second public hearing and consideration for adoption of the Fiscal Year 2022 Budget
• CDBG Construction Contract for Senior Center Expansion Project to Bayne Development Group, LLC for $763,737.00
• Eagle Tavern Project contract amendments totaling $27,669.00
• Rezone request for North side of Moreland Heights Drive to allow an assisted living facility and office
• Special Use request for septic tank cleaning service at 1561 Osborne Road

The Board of Commissioners adopted the FY22 budget totaling $58,461,169, including the General Fund, Special Funds, Capital Projects, SPLOST, and Enterprise Fund, along with the FY22 Fee Schedule. The board also approved a $597,000 design services contract with Hill Foley Rossi and Associates for the new Administrative Building, funded by SPLOST funds. Several zoning and special use requests were decided, including approvals for an assisted living facility and a septic cleaning service, and denials for modular buildings and a buffer reduction.

• Adopted FY22 budget of $58,461,169 and fee schedule (3-0)
• Approved $597,000 design contract with Hill Foley Rossi and Associates for Administrative Building (3-0)
• Approved school district General Obligation Bonds, Series 2021 ad valorem tax levy (3-0)
• Approved Special Use P21-0053 for septic cleaning service at 1561 Osborne Road (3-0)
• Approved Rezone P21-0054 for assisted living facility at Hwy Business 441 with six conditions (3-0)
• Denied Special Use P21-0056 for modular buildings at 1973/1975 Hog Mountain Road (3-0)
• Denied Special Exception P21-0057 to reduce buffer from 50 ft to 0 ft (2-1)
• Approved Special Exception P21-0071 for 19-ft rear setback variance at 1060 Derby Lane (3-0)

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The authority will meet to approve previous meeting minutes and receive financial and operations reports. The agenda includes a presentation for a GAWP Top Op Award.

• Approval of March 24, 2021 meeting minutes
• Financial Report by Sophia Primer
• Operations and Management Report by Brad Lanning
• GAWP Top Op Award Presentation

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners is conducting the first public hearing regarding the proposed budget for Fiscal Year 2022. The meeting is dedicated to this budget hearing and public comment.

• First Public Hearing of the Proposed Fiscal Year 2022 Budget

The Board of Commissioners held the first public hearing for the proposed FY22 budget, which totals $58,461,169 (General Fund $32,691,229) with no millage rate increase recommended. No formal vote was taken; the budget is scheduled for adoption on June 1, 2021. Public comments were received, and the hearing adjourned without further action.

• No formal decisions made; budget adoption scheduled for June 1, 2021

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a Memorandum of Agreement with the City of Watkinsville regarding the Oconee County Library. The meeting includes discussions on construction and design contracts for county facilities and the appointment of an Open Records Officer.

• Memorandum of Agreement with City of Watkinsville for Oconee County Library
• CDBG Construction Contract for Senior Center Expansion Project
• Design Services Contract for Administration Building
• Contract Amendments for the Eagle Tavern Project
• Resolution for the naming of an Open Records Officer

The Board of Commissioners held an agenda meeting and unanimously approved the agenda. No citizen comments were made. The board reached consensus to place four items on the June 1, 2021 consent agenda: a library MOU with Watkinsville, an Open Records Officer resolution, Eagle Tavern contract amendments, and a Senior Center construction contract. No final votes were taken on these items at this meeting.

• Approved May 25, 2021 agenda (unanimous)
• Consensus to place library MOU on June 1 consent agenda
• Consensus to place Open Records Officer resolution on June 1 consent agenda
• Consensus to place Eagle Tavern contract amendments on June 1 consent agenda
• Consensus to place Senior Center CDBG construction contract on June 1 consent agenda
• Adjourned to executive session for personnel matters (unanimous)
• No action taken in executive session

Family and Children Services

The Board is meeting to review minutes from January 2021 and a financial report. The agenda includes updates on staffing and performance indicators for the Office of Family Independence and Social Services.

• Financial report showing 71.33% of FY 21 funds spent through April 30th
• Performance indicators for Family Medicaid (95.61%) and Food Stamps (94.86%)
• Active case counts: 1,068 Family Medicaid, 603 SNAP, 132 Sr. SNAP, 472 ABD Medicaid, and 5 TANF
• Social Services staffing: two Case Managers, one Supervisor, and one County Funded Tech position

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to hear property tax appeals and review exempt status. The body will also vote on the approval of the digest, freeport, and homestead exemptions.

• Appeal withdrawal for Colony Square Business Center, LLC, Harris Properties of GA, LLC & Ashley Glen Partners, LLC
• Exempt status appeal for Life Church of Athens, INC
• Continuations for 20 property appeals ranging from 10.00 to 97.21 acres
• Approval of Homestead, Freeport, and Digest

The Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved the 2021 final gross digest, totaling $3,084,993,664 (up 8.5% from 2020), and authorized mailing of 18,605 real property and 1,328 personal assessments on May 21, 2021. The Board also unanimously approved the appointment of Amanda Shelton as Secretary, approved the April minutes, and approved lists of homestead and Freeport exemptions. The Board upheld its previous denial of a tax exemption for Life Church of Athens and voted to forward the appeal to the Board of Equalization. Three property owners withdrew their appeals.

• Approved April 13, 2021 minutes (unanimous)
• Appointed Amanda Shelton as Secretary of Board of Tax Assessors (unanimous)
• Upheld denial of tax exemption for Life Church of Athens, parcel C-03-016, and forwarded appeal to Board of Equalization (unanimous)
• Approved 19 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved attached homestead exemption list (unanimous)
• Approved attached Freeport exemption list (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 final gross digest of $3,084,993,664 and mailing of assessments (unanimous)

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee will meet to receive reports from Facility Supervisor Pat Sebring. The body will discuss updates regarding county programs and parks.

• Review and approval of March 16, 2021 meeting minutes
• Facility Supervisor report by Pat Sebring
• Program and park updates

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee approved its agenda and March minutes, heard updates on parks and programs, and agreed to support a proposal to seek CARES Act funding for HVAC upgrades at parks. No formal votes were taken on substantive policy items; the meeting was primarily informational and discussion-based.

• Approved meeting agenda (unanimous)
• Approved March 16, 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Agreed to support CARES Act funding proposal for park HVAC upgrades
• Adjourned meeting (unanimous)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will consider three land-use requests. These include a rezoning for a commercial project and two special use permits for business operations.

• Special Use #P21-0053: Septic Tank Cleaning Service on ±5.53 acres along Osborne Road
• Rezone #P21-0054: Rhino Mini-Storage, LLC request to change ±8.38 acres on Moreland Heights Drive from OBP to OIP
• Special Use #P21-0056: Modular Buildings on ±2.94 acres at 1973 and 1975 Hog Mountain Road

The Oconee County Planning Commission approved all three items on its agenda. It unanimously approved a special use permit for a septic tank cleaning service on Osborne Road and a rezoning for Rhino Mini-Storage on Moreland Heights Drive. It also approved a special use permit for modular buildings at 1973 Hog Mountain Road by a 7-2 vote, despite staff recommending denial.

• Approved Special Use #P21-0053 for John and Brittany Wardlow's septic tank cleaning service on Osborne Road, with staff's recommended condition (unanimous).
• Approved Rezone #P21-0054 for Rhino Mini-Storage, LLC from OBP to OIP on Moreland Heights Drive, with staff's 6 conditions (unanimous).
• Approved Special Use #P21-0056 for modular buildings at 1973 Hog Mountain Road, with conditions recommended by staff (7-2; Byrd and Jordan opposed).
• Adopted the April 2021 meeting minutes (unanimous).

Board of Health

The Board of Health will meet to review minutes from the previous meeting and discuss a Covid update. No other specific actions or decisions are listed on the agenda.

• Covid Update

The May 12, 2021 meeting approved prior minutes and the agenda, and received updates on COVID-19 cases and vaccines. The August 11, 2021 meeting lacked a quorum, so minutes were not approved, but the board heard updates on rising cases and vaccination rates. No formal decisions were made at either meeting.

• Approved minutes from last meeting (motion by Kellie Templeman, second by Dr. Jason Branch)
• Approved agenda for May 12, 2021 meeting (motion by Kellie Templeman, second by Dr. Jason Branch)

Animal Services Meeting

The Animal Services Advisory Board will meet to receive updates on the budget, events, and a renovations project. The board is scheduled to discuss the animal services ordinance and bylaws.

• Renovations project update
• Discussion of animal services ordinance
• Discussion of bylaws
• Budget updates

Planning Commission Meeting

The Hard Labor Creek Reservoir Management Board and Walton County Water & Sewerage Authority are meeting to elect officers and review project budgets. The bodies will discuss reservoir maintenance and the status of the Apalachee River Intake project.

• Dam Site Mowing Quote from J&M Unique Septic Systems LLC for $10,004.50
• Nelson Environmental proposal for High Shoals Hydroelectric Plant archival record not to exceed $17,983.88
• Review of Construction Budget for Q2 and Q3 of FY 2021
• Discussion of buoy line cable and clamp corrosion and replacement pricing
• Status of Boat Ramp Restroom Facility punch list items

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Tourism and Visitors Bureau Board will meet to approve previous minutes and receive an account update from the Treasurer. Internal Services Director Alex Newell will provide an overview of historical SPLOST.

• Historical SPLOST overview by Alex Newell
• Account update from Treasurer
• Visitors Bureau monthly overview from Executive Director

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The commission will meet to approve March 2021 minutes and review a budget report. The session includes updates on current programs and a report from the Executive Director.

• Budget report
• Executive Director report
• Current program updates

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to review station maintenance and training schedules. The body will discuss incident command protocols and member status.

• Work orders for Dwayne and Artie regarding truck and station maintenance
• Review of May training and monthly training hours
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Report on FF1 Class for Ben Holton and Mike Towe
• Discussion on incident command, radio traffic, and inactive members

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs meeting on May 10, 2021, was primarily procedural. The chiefs approved the April 12, 2021 minutes and reviewed outstanding work orders, the May training schedule, the potential firefighter/medical responder roster, and monthly training hours. They also discussed incident command procedures, a possible September 11th PR event, and inactive members, but no substantive policy decisions were made.

• Approved April 12, 2021 meeting minutes
• Reviewed outstanding work orders for Fire Rescue
• Reviewed May training schedule
• Reviewed potential firefighter and medical responder roster
• Reviewed April 2021 monthly training hours
• Discussed incident command and TAC channel use
• Discussed possible September 11th PR event

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will consider several zoning and special use requests, including a shopping center development and modular classroom buildings. The meeting also includes a presentation of the FY22 Budget Proposal and the potential adoption of the 2021-2024 Strategic Plan.

• Rezone No. P20-0210: Shopping center development on Mars Hill Road, Oconee Connector, GA Highway 316, and Virgil Langford Road
• Special Use No. P21-0028: Temporary modular classroom building at 1640 and 1590 New High Shoals Road
• Rezone No. P21-0029: Lot size modification at 1120 Berta Drive
• Presentation of FY22 Budget Proposal
• Adoption of the 2021-2024 Strategic Plan

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review the FY22 draft budget and the 2021-2024 strategic plan. The meeting includes budget requests for the Tax Commissioner and Superior Court, as well as discussions on service contracts and infrastructure repairs.

• FY22 Draft Budget Presentation
• Budget request for additional personnel from Tax Commissioner Jennifer Riddle
• FY22 Budget Request from Superior Court Judge Eric Norris
• Amendment to Bridge Repair Contract on Old Highway 15
• FY22 Concessionaire Services Contracts with Oconee Futbol Club and Oconee County Little League

The Board approved a $10,500 contract amendment for additional repairs to the Old Highway 15 Bridge, with a budget transfer. Several items were deferred to the May 4 regular meeting, including concessionaire contracts and a CodeRed renewal. The FY22 draft budget and 2021-2024 Strategic Plan were presented for future consideration. No action was taken in executive session.

• Approved $10,500 bridge repair contract amendment for Old Highway 15 (unanimous)
• Approved agenda as amended to include bridge repair amendment (unanimous)
• Deferred concessionaire contracts for Oconee Futbol Club and Little League to May 4 meeting
• Deferred CodeRed contract renewal ($45,000 over 5 years) to May 4 meeting
• Adjourned into executive session for personnel, land acquisition, litigation, and sales tax reporting (unanimous)
• No action taken in executive session

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission is meeting to discuss three land-use items. These include a commercial rezoning request and a request for a temporary modular building.

• Rezone #P20-0210: Deferred Tax, LLC request for ±46.87 acres at Mars Hill Road, Oconee Connector, Georgia Highway 316 and Virgil Langford Road to B-2 (Highway Business District)
• Special Use #P21-0028: Westminster Christian Academy, LLC request for a temporary modular building on ±40.74 acres at 1640 & 1590 New High Shoals Road
• Rezone #P21-0029: Waymon L. and Betty Sue Ash request for AR (Agricultural Residential District) with modifications on ±5.00 acres at 1120 Berta Drive

The Oconee County Planning Commission voted 6-3 to deny a request to rezone 46.87 acres at Mars Hill Road, Oconee Connector, Georgia Highway 316, and Virgil Langford Road from R-1, B-1 PUD, and B-2 to B-2 (Highway Business District) for commercial use. The commission also unanimously approved a special use permit for a temporary modular building at Westminster Christian Academy and a rezoning with modifications at 1120 Berta Drive. The minutes record no other substantive decisions.

• Denied rezoning P20-0210 for 46.87 acres at Mars Hill Road to B-2 (6-3)
• Approved special use P21-0028 for temporary modular building at Westminster Christian Academy (unanimous)
• Approved rezoning P21-0029 at 1120 Berta Drive with modifications (unanimous)
• Adopted March 2020 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review applications for Conservation Use (CUV) status and exempt property. The body will also discuss a settlement conference and the removal of homestead exemptions for properties where physical and mailing addresses differ.

• Settlement conference for Colony Square Business Center, LLC, Harris Properties of GA, LLC & Ashley Glen Partners, LLC
• Exempt property application for Life Church of Athens, In. (C-03-016)
• CUV release for Oconee Plantation, LLC (A-11-001) due to Letter of Intent to Breach
• Revision of Policy Number BOA 49 regarding non-disclosure of foster parent records
• Removal of homestead exemptions for 36 listed parcels

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved the 2021 CUV/FLPA values for the digest, along with numerous new CUV applications, continuations, and releases. The board also denied an exempt property application for Life Church of Athens, approved policy revisions and saturation adjustments, and upheld the BOE value of $461,000 for parcel B-06P-003 after a settlement conference.

• Approved 2021 CUV/FLPA values for digest (unanimous)
• Approved 29 new CUV applications (unanimous)
• Approved 22 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Approved 3 CUV applications under 10 acres (unanimous)
• Granted 3 CUV releases due to death or 65 early out (unanimous)
• Denied exempt property application for Life Church of Athens, parcel C-03-016 (unanimous)
• Approved revision of Policy BOA 49 on non-disclosure (unanimous)
• Upheld BOE value of $461,000 for parcel B-06P-003 (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to review training hours and volunteer recruitment. The body will also discuss the status of several new vehicles and a fireworks tax grant.

• Status of new Rescue 6, Rescue 8, Air Truck, and Engine 201
• Discussion of Fireworks Tax Grant
• Review of potential volunteer recruit list
• Report on FF1 Class for Ben Holton and Mike Towe
• Work orders for Dwayne and Artie regarding truck and station maintenance

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs met on April 12, 2021, and approved the March 8, 2021 minutes. They reviewed maintenance work orders, training schedules, and the firefighter recruit roster. No major policy decisions were made; the meeting was primarily administrative and informational.

• Approved March 8, 2021 minutes
• Reviewed outstanding work orders for Fire Rescue
• Reviewed April training schedule
• Reviewed potential firefighter and medical responder roster
• Noted assessment lab for three firefighter recruits on April 14
• Noted four FF1 recruits ready for live burn on April 17
• Noted FF2 course to be offered in July 2021
• Reviewed status of new Fire & Rescue vehicles

Library Advisory Board

The Library Board of Trustees will meet to review the FY22 budget and continue discussions regarding a new library. The meeting includes reports from branch managers, regional services, and Friends of the Library groups.

• FY22 Budget discussion
• New Library discussion

The Oconee County Library Board of Trustees approved the 2022 budget, which is the same as the 2021 budget with possible changes at the July meeting. They also discussed plans for a new library in Watkinsville, including a 20-year agreement and capital funds from the Watkinsville Council. The board approved minutes from previous meetings and received reports on operations, including changes to quarantine times and book handling.

• Approved January 11, 2021 minutes as amended (unanimous)
• Approved January 25, 2021 called meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Adopted 2022 budget, same as 2021, with changes possible in July (unanimous)
• Discussed new Watkinsville library MOU and 20-year agreement
• Requested letter with building specifications to Oconee County and Watkinsville

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will consider zoning requests, budget amendments for the Coroner's Office and Parks & Recreation, and a settlement agreement with insurance companies. The body will also review a local maintenance improvement grant and the 2021 Economic Development Strategy.

• Bid award for Epps Bridge Parkway Improvement Project to Pitman Construction not to exceed $382,335.70
• Rezone No. 21-0007 for 1521 Cole Springs Road from AG to AR
• Variance No. P21-0027 for 4169 Whitlow Ridge Drive to reduce side setback for a detached garage
• GDOT 2021 Local Maintenance Improvement Grant Safety Action Plan with $115,000.00 in funding and a $50,422.00 county match
• Transfer of $25,500.00 from Water Resources Enterprise Fund to General Fund for a Public Works striping project

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezone for 1521 Cole Springs Road from AG to AR, a variance to reduce a side setback on Whitlow Ridge Drive, a settlement agreement for infrastructure bonds, and budget amendments for the Coroner's Office and Parks & Recreation. The board also approved the consent agenda, which included a bid award for the Epps Bridge Parkway Improvement Project and a grant for a safety action plan.

• Approved Rezone No. P21-0007 for 1521 Cole Springs Road (AG to AR, 7.22 acres) with one condition.
• Approved Variance No. P21-0027 for 4169 Whitlow Ridge Drive to reduce side setback from 15 to 8 feet with one condition.
• Approved the settlement agreement with Ohio Casualty, Developers Surety, and Liberty Mutual for Westland subdivision infrastructure bonds.
• Approved budget amendments for the Coroner's Office ($5,000) and Parks & Recreation ($1,057.70 for a picnic table).
• Approved the consent agenda, including the Epps Bridge Parkway Improvement Project bid award to Pitman Construction ($382,335.70).
• Approved the consent agenda, including the GDOT 2021 Local Maintenance Improvement Grant Safety Action Plan ($115,000 grant, $50,422 county match).
• Approved the consent agenda, including the 2021 Oconee County Economic Development Strategy.
• Approved the consent agenda, including the FY22 Budget Submittal Plan amendment moving the first public hearing to May 25, 2021.

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections is meeting to coordinate a special election for the City of Watkinsville. The board will discuss election timelines and SB 202.

• Special Election for City of Watkinsville on June 15th
• Qualifying dates: April 12th–13th and April 14th
• Advanced Voting from May 24th to June 11th
• Discussion of SB 202

The Board of Elections unanimously approved the minutes from the March 22, 2021 meeting. The board issued a call for a Special Election for the City of Watkinsville to fill vacancies for Mayor and City Council, Post 1, with qualifying set for April 12-14 and the election on June 15, 2021. The board also discussed changes from SB 202, with some sections effective immediately and others beginning July 1, 2021. No other substantive decisions were made.

• Approved the minutes from the March 22, 2021 meeting unanimously.
• Issued the call for the Special Election for the City of Watkinsville to fill Mayor and City Council, Post 1 vacancies, with qualifying April 12-14 and election June 15, 2021.
• Discussed SB 202 changes, with sections 21, 23, 25, 27, 28, and 29 effective July 1, 2021, and all other sections effective immediately.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will discuss a bid award for the Epps Bridge Parkway Improvement Project and the Oconee County Economic Development Strategy. The meeting includes reviews of right-of-way deeds, sewer easements, and a budget submittal plan amendment.

• Bid award for the Epps Bridge Parkway Improvement Project
• Oconee County Economic Development Strategy discussion
• Right-of-Way deed from TMFT Lot Investments, LLC for Autumn Glen Phase 2
• Sanitary Sewer Easement from Westminster Presbyterian Homes
• Amendment to the FY22 Budget Submittal Plan

The Board of Commissioners held an agenda meeting and approved the meeting agenda. All substantive items were discussed and, on consensus, placed on the Consent Agenda for the April 6, 2021 Regular Meeting, including the 2021 Economic Development Strategy, acceptance of rights-of-way and a sewer easement, a tractor transfer, a bid award, a GDOT grant, and a budget hearing date change. No public comment was received. The Board entered executive session for personnel, land acquisition, and potential litigation, but no action was taken there.

• Approved the March 30, 2021 agenda.
• Placed the 2021 Economic Development Strategy on the April 6 Consent Agenda.
• Placed acceptance of Autumn Glen Phase 2 rights-of-way on the April 6 Consent Agenda.
• Placed acceptance of a sanitary sewer easement from Westminster Presbyterian Homes on the April 6 Consent Agenda.
• Placed a $25,500 tractor transfer and budget appropriation on the April 6 Consent Agenda.
• Placed award of the Epps Bridge Parkway Improvement Project bid to Pittman Construction ($382,335.70) on the April 6 Consent Agenda.
• Placed acceptance of a GDOT grant ($115,000 with a $50,422 match) for road safety improvements on the April 6 Consent Agenda.
• Placed a change to the FY22 budget public hearing date (to May 25, 2021) on the April 6 Consent Agenda.

Upper Oconee Basin Water Authority

The Authority will review the November 18, 2020 meeting minutes and a financial report from Rushton & Company. The agenda also includes reports from the Engineering & Operations and Operations and Management committees.

• Approval of November 18, 2020 meeting minutes
• Auditor’s Report by Rushton & Company

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners is holding a Town Hall Meeting on March 24, 2021. The provided agenda contains no specific discussion items or decisions to be made.

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners held a town hall meeting, answering citizen questions on various topics. No formal votes or decisions were made; the meeting was informational. Chairman Daniell provided updates on road projects, including the Mars Hill Road widening and future GDOT interchanges, and discussed housing affordability, the Publix rezone, and other county matters.

• No formal decisions were made; the meeting was for citizen questions and updates.
• Chairman Daniell reported the Mars Hill Road widening contract was awarded to ER Snell, with work starting in 30-60 days and lasting about two years.
• Chairman Daniell listed upcoming GDOT projects, including the Oconee Connector flyover (2024-2027) and Julian Drive flyover (2028).
• Chairman Daniell stated the decision on closing the cut-through road at Cole Springs Road will be made in fall 2021.
• Chairman Daniell said the Board cannot comment on the Publix rezone until it goes through the Planning Commission.
• Chairman Daniell noted the Bishop Farms Parkway project is on hold due to bids exceeding available funds.
• Chairman Daniell said there is no county-wide mask mandate, but a judicial order requires masks in the courthouse.
• Chairman Daniell said the Administration Building will be smaller and cost less without the library, with an RFP for an architect to be posted soon.

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board will meet to certify the March 16th ESPLOST Special Election. The Director will also discuss a vacancy in the City of Watkinsville.

• Certification of March 16th ESPLOST Special Election
• Discussion of City of Watkinsville Vacancy

The Oconee County Board of Elections unanimously approved the minutes from its March 2, 2021 meeting. The board also voted unanimously to certify the results of the March 16, 2021 Special ESPLOST Election, as reviewed by Anglin from the Election Summary Report and other vote tallies. No provisional votes were cast. The board discussed a potential Special Election for the City of Watkinsville on June 15, 2021, but no action was taken pending more information.

• Approved the minutes from the March 2, 2021 meeting unanimously.
• Certified the results of the March 16, 2021 Special ESPLOST Election unanimously.
• Discussed a potential Special Election for the City of Watkinsville on June 15, 2021, with no action taken.

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to review program and park updates provided by Recreation Manager Zach Churchill. The body will also approve the agenda and minutes from the January 19, 2021 meeting.

• Program and park updates from Recreation Manager Zach Churchill

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee met and heard updates from staff, including that the Summer Day Camp will not be offered this year due to COVID-19 challenges. The committee also heard public comments requesting more pickleball courts, with members noting financial constraints and competing park needs. The meeting minutes and agenda were approved unanimously.

• Approved the meeting agenda unanimously.
• Approved the January 19, 2021 meeting minutes unanimously.
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously.

Planning Commission Meeting

The Planning Commission will consider a rezoning request for approximately 7.22 acres on Cole Springs Road. The proposal seeks to change the land use from Agricultural (AG) to Agricultural Residential (AR).

• Rezone #P21-0007: AG to AR on ±7.22 acres on Cole Springs Road

The Oconee County Planning Commission unanimously approved a rezoning request (P21-0007) from Agricultural (AG) to Agricultural Residential (AR) for 7.22 acres at 1521 Cole Springs Rd., subject to staff conditions. The owner, Harvey Downs, said the change would bring the property into compliance with the UDC. No public comments were made. The commission also adopted the February 2020 minutes with one correction.

• Approved rezoning P21-0007 (AG to AR) for 7.22 acres at 1521 Cole Springs Rd. (unanimous)
• Adopted February 2020 meeting minutes with one correction (unanimous)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors is meeting to review new and continuing Conservation Use Value (CUV) applications. The board will also discuss CUV releases and update land and improvement schedules for the 2021 digest.

• Review of new CUV applications for 17 properties, including parcels for Townley Family Partnership and Luis & Maria Candelario
• Review of 10 CUV continuations, including parcels for Willhall, LLC and David Lee
• CUV releases for Audrey Rowden, Kate Pritchett, and Will-O-War
• Update on land and improvement schedules for the 2021 digest

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors unanimously approved 17 new Conservation Use Valuation (CUV) applications, 10 CUV continuations, and 3 CUV releases (2 without penalty, 1 with penalty paid). The board also approved changes to small/large tract schedules and residential base cost schedules for the 2021 digest. All decisions were unanimous.

• Approved 17 new CUV applications (unanimous)
• Approved 10 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Granted 2 CUV releases without penalty (unanimous)
• Granted 1 CUV release with penalty paid (unanimous)
• Approved changes to small/large tract schedules and residential base cost schedules for 2021 digest (unanimous)
• Approved February 9, 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The board will meet to review the treasurer's account update and the executive director's monthly overview. The meeting also includes the approval of previous minutes.

• Approval of minutes
• Treasurer's account update
• Executive Director's monthly overview

The Oconee County Tourism and Visitors Bureau board approved the January meeting minutes and the financial report, with no opposition. The board discussed several future items, including a committee for the historical school building, a mural on the new water tower, and a potential new Welcome Center office, but took no action on these topics. The next meeting is scheduled for May 11.

• Approved January meeting minutes (unanimous)
• Approved financial report (unanimous)
• Discussed historical school building committee, no action
• Discussed water tower mural, no action
• Discussed Welcome Center relocation, no action

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

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

• Budget report
• Executive Director report on current programs

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs and membership are meeting to review station maintenance and training schedules. The body will also discuss membership appeals and inactive members.

• Work orders for Dwayne and Artie regarding truck and station maintenance
• Review of March training and potential volunteer recruit list
• Report on FF1 Class for Ben Holton and Mike Towe
• Review of membership appeals
• Discussion of inactive members

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs approved the February 8, 2021 minutes and reviewed maintenance, training, and membership items. They voted to accept Ben Franks' membership appeal and to deny Will Cano's membership appeal. The chiefs also reviewed the March training schedule, inactive members, and discussed new generators for several stations.

• Approved the February 8, 2021 meeting minutes.
• Approved Ben Franks' membership appeal (motion by Jordan Farrington, seconded by Glen Cain).
• Denied Will Cano's membership appeal (motion by Eric Stalnaker, seconded by Greg Peck).
• Reviewed the March training schedule, including drills and classes.
• Reviewed the Potential Firefighter and Medical Responder roster.
• Reviewed monthly training hours for January and February 2021.
• Discussed Presbyterian Village and the Support Firefighter program.
• Adjourned by consensus at 8:30 PM.

Board of Elections Meeting

The Board of Elections is meeting to discuss advance voting, the ESPLOST Election Day, and election legislation. The board will also review job descriptions and performance reviews. The Director will report on poll worker training and logic and accuracy testing.

• Advance Voting and Drop Box discussions
• ESPLOST Election Day planning
• Election Legislation review
• Performance Reviews and Job Descriptions
• Logic and Accuracy Testing report

The Oconee County Board of Elections unanimously approved the minutes from the January 12, 2021 meeting. The board reviewed updates on advance voting for the March 16, 2021 ESPLOST, the 2021-2022 fiscal budget, and current election legislation. No formal decisions were made on these items; they were only discussed. The meeting adjourned unanimously at 5:15 p.m.

• Approved the minutes from the January 12, 2021 meeting unanimously.
• Adjourned the meeting unanimously at 5:15 p.m.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Board of Commissioners will review several land-use requests, including a wireless tower and commercial developments on Macon Highway. The body will also consider board appointments and FY21 budget amendments.

• Special use request for a 250-foot wireless tower at 1290 Jones Road
• Rezone request for multi-use commercial development on Macon Highway
• Rezone and special use request for a new Stone Store location and outdoor storage on Macon Highway
• Engineering design contract for Calls Creek Wastewater Reclamation Facility Upgrade to Ardurra not to exceed $646,432.00
• Variance request to reduce rear setback for an accessory building at 1051 Ramblewood Place

The Board of Commissioners approved a rezoning for a multi-use commercial development on Macon Highway, and separately approved a rezoning and special use permit to relocate The Stone Store, both with conditions. The board also approved a special use for a telecommunications tower, a variance, appointments, and mid-year budget amendments.

• Approved Special Use No. P20-0198 for a 250-foot telecommunications tower at 1290 Jones Road with five conditions.
• Approved Rezone No. P20-0260 (Oconee Mercantile, LLC and Selah Farm, LLC) from OBP and I to B-2 for multi-use commercial development with nine conditions (3-2 vote).
• Approved Rezone No. P20-0261 (Fred Gunter Property, LLC and Selah Farm, LLC) from OIP and I to B-2 for The Stone Store relocation with six conditions (3-2 vote).
• Approved Special Use No. P20-0262 for outdoor storage associated with The Stone Store with six conditions (3-1 vote).
• Approved Special Exception Variance No. P21-0006 to reduce the rear setback from 40 to 10 feet at 1051 Ramblewood Place with one condition.
• Appointed Susanna Moriarty to the Community Service Board for a three-year term.
• Reappointed Danny Mobley and appointed Trey Downs to the Board of Tax Assessors.
• Approved FY21 Mid-Year Budget Amendments as presented.

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will discuss and consider several items, including a resolution to designate an officer to request sales tax information from the Georgia Department of Revenue, a revision to a special exception variance, a request to defer a rezoning public hearing, a memorandum of understanding with a garden club, and an award for engineering design for a wastewater facility upgrade. The meeting also includes citizen comments, commissioner remarks, a GIS presentation, and a possible executive session.

• Resolution to name a designated officer to request sales tax information from the Georgia Department of Revenue
• Revision to Special Exception Variance No. 6752 (dated June 7, 2016)
• Request to defer Public Hearing for Rezone No. P20-0210 (Deferred Tax LLC) to April 6, 2021
• Memorandum of Understanding with Watkinsville Garden Club for Blue Star and Gold Star Family Markers at courthouse
• Award for Engineering Design and Support for Calls Creek Wastewater Reclamation Facility Upgrade to 3.0 MGD

The Board approved a corrected resolution for Special Exception Variance No. 6752, fixing an administrative error from 2016 regarding a buffer requirement. It also deferred Rezone No. P20-0210 to the Planning Commission on April 19 and the Board on May 4, 2021. Several items were placed on the consent agenda for the March 2 regular meeting, including a resolution for sales tax information, a memorandum with the Watkinsville Garden Club, and a design services contract for the Calls Creek Wastewater Reclamation Facility. No public comments were made, and no action was taken in executive session.

• Approved corrected resolution for Special Exception Variance No. 6752 (5-0)
• Deferred Rezone No. P20-0210 to Planning Commission April 19 and Board May 4 (5-0)
• Placed resolution to name Finance Director as designated officer for sales tax info on consent agenda
• Placed MOU with Watkinsville Garden Club for memorial markers on consent agenda
• Placed award recommendation for Calls Creek design services to Ardurra ($646,432) on consent agenda
• Approved agenda as presented (5-0)
• Adjourned to executive session for personnel and land acquisition, no action taken
• Adjourned meeting at 6:31 p.m. (5-0)

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission approved a rezone of 23.14 acres on Macon Highway from OBP/I to B-2, with conditions including a 75-foot natural buffer adjacent to homes. A related rezone and special use for a nearby 5.80-acre parcel were denied, and a wireless tower special use was approved unanimously.

• Approved Rezone #P20-0260 (23.14 acres, Macon Highway) to B-2 with staff conditions plus 75-foot buffer and opaque screening (7-1)
• Denied Rezone #P20-0261 (5.80 acres, Macon Highway) to B-2 (5-4)
• Special Use #P20-0262 (outdoor storage) not voted on after rezone denial
• Approved Special Use #P20-0198 (wireless tower, 1290 Jones Road) with conditions (unanimous)
• Adopted January 2021 minutes (unanimous)

Board of Health

The Oconee County Board of Health is meeting to handle routine business: approving minutes, electing officers, and reviewing the FY22 budget. They will also hear an environmental health variance request for a sensory deprivation flotation tank and receive an update on the COVID-19 vaccine.

• Election of officers
• FY22 budget presentation by Emily Eisenman
• Variance request for a sensory deprivation flotation tank
• COVID-19 vaccine update by Dr. Goggans

The Oconee County Board of Health approved the FY22 budget, which reflects a drop in revenue and personnel costs as COVID hazard pay is expected to end. The board also approved a variance for Serenity Float Center's float tanks, allowing them to operate under modified pool regulations. Rachel Swartz was sworn in as a new member, and officers were re-elected for the new year.

• Approved FY22 budget (passed by those present)
• Approved variance for Serenity Float Center float tanks (passed by those present)
• Approved minutes from last meeting (passed by those present)
• Re-elected Dr. Jason Branch as Chairperson, Mark Thomas as Vice Chairperson, Laura Mitchell-Spurlock as Secretary (passed by those present)

Board of Tax Assessors

The Board of Tax Assessors held a settlement conference for tax parcel A-01-003AA, where the owner's attorney proposed a value of $700,000. The Board unanimously agreed to lower the value from $794,593 to $775,000, but the attorney could not accept and will consult the owner. The Board also approved minutes, officers, a tax refund, and multiple CUV applications, continuations, and releases.

• Lowered Klosterman property value to $775,000; offer rejected by attorney
• Approved regular and executive session minutes from January 12, 2021
• Approved 2021 officers: Chairman Greg Hayes, Vice-Chairman Danny Mobley, Secretary Carol Gurley
• Approved 3-year tax refund for Peggy West due to acreage correction
• Approved 7 new CUV applications (unanimous)
• Approved 5 CUV continuations (unanimous)
• Granted 2 CUV early-out releases with no penalty (unanimous)
• Granted 1 CUV breach release with penalty paid (unanimous)

Oconee Fire Rescue Station Chiefs Meeting

The Oconee County Fire Rescue Station Chiefs approved the December 14, 2020 minutes and reviewed maintenance, training, and rosters. They agreed to cancel the 2021 Appreciation Dinner and Boot Drive, with individual station dinners funded instead. No other formal votes were taken; the meeting was adjourned by consensus.

• Approved December 14, 2020 meeting minutes
• Agreed to cancel 2021 Appreciation Dinner and Boot Drive
• Agreed to hold individual station dinners with awards and service pins

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

The Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission is holding its regular monthly meeting. The agenda includes approval of minutes, a budget report, and updates on current programs, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 2020 meeting
• Budget report
• Current program updates and Executive Director report

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will consider several rezoning requests, including commercial and senior living developments, and a special use for a self-storage facility. They will also discuss authorizing bond validation for the SPLOST 2021 election, road projects, and a budget amendment. The agenda includes public hearings and citizen comments.

• Rezone P20-0199: 2.0 acres at 2751 New High Shoals Road from AG to AR for subdivision
• Rezone P20-0235: 20.23 acres at 4060 Mars Hill Road from AG to B-2 for multi-use commercial development
• Special Use P20-0236: mini-warehouse/self-storage at 4060 Mars Hill Road
• Budget amendment to pay off leases up to $306,000
• Bid award to Garland & Associates for Eagle Tavern and Central School projects up to $422,000

The Board of Commissioners approved the validation of General Obligation Bonds for SPLOST 2021, adopted amendments to the Timber Harvesting Ordinance, and approved several rezones and special use permits, including a commercial development at 4060 Mars Hill Road and a senior living community at 2881 Monroe Highway. The board also approved road projects, a budget amendment, and appointments.

• Approved SPLOST 2021 bond validation (4-0)
• Adopted Timber Harvesting Ordinance amendments (4-0)
• Approved Rezone P20-0199 at 2751 New High Shoals Rd (4-0)
• Approved Rezone P20-0219 at 1101 Old Barnett Shoals Rd (4-0)
• Approved Rezone P20-0235 and Special Use P20-0236 at 4060 Mars Hill Rd (4-0)
• Approved Rezone P20-0238 at 2881 Monroe Hwy for senior living (4-0)
• Approved Special Use P20-0239 at 3720 Mars Hill Rd (4-0)
• Approved Hog Mountain Road widening ($82,690) and FY21 resurfacing ($3,502,580.25) (4-0)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will hold a regular meeting with a public hearing on proposed amendments to the Timber Harvesting Ordinance, a report on the FY2020 audit, and consideration of several contracts and project updates. The board will also discuss a request to defer a rezoning public hearing and receive a financial update for the second quarter of FY2021.

• First reading and public hearing on amendments to the Timber Harvesting Ordinance
• Report of FY2020 Audit by Clay Pilgrim of Rushton & Company
• Request to defer public hearing for Rezone No. P20-0210 (Deferred Tax LLC) to March 2, 2021
• Discussion of award for Eagle Tavern Project RFP
• Bid award to Current Edge Solutions, LLC for generators at fire stations and Senior Center

Library Advisory Board

The Oconee County Library Board of Trustees is holding a special called meeting to discuss a new library location and a print management system. The meeting will take place on Monday, January 25 at 4:30 PM at the Bogart Library, with public access via Zoom. No decisions are listed on the agenda; items are for discussion only.

• Discussion of new library location
• Discussion of print management system
• Public access via Zoom link provided
• Next meeting scheduled for April 12 at 4:30 PM at Bogart Library

Family and Children Services

The Oconee County Department of Family and Children Services board is meeting to review the November 2020 minutes, a financial report showing 44.84% of FY21 funds spent, and program updates. Staffing is fully filled, and performance indicators for food stamps and Medicaid are reported. The board will also hear updates from members and set the next meeting date.

• 44.84% of FY21 funds spent
• Food Stamp promptness: Expedited 96.20%, Non-Expedited 98.57%
• Family Medicaid promptness: 98.51%
• Active cases: TANF 3, SNAP 671, Sr. SNAP 119, Family Medicaid 1,036, ABD Medicaid 449
• Social Services caseload average 20.5 with 2 case managers

Recreation Advisory Committee

The Oconee County Recreation Advisory Committee is meeting to approve the agenda and minutes from the November 17, 2020 meeting, receive a finance update from Assistant Director Melissa Braswell, and hear program and park updates. Public comments are also scheduled. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific action items listed.

• Review and approve minutes from November 17, 2020 meeting
• Finance Department update by Melissa Braswell, Assistant Director
• Program and park updates
• Public comments

The Recreation Advisory Committee met and heard a budget overview from Finance Assistant Director Melissa Braswell, including details on the FY22 planning schedule and the park bond debt. No formal decisions were made beyond approving the agenda and previous meeting minutes. Park and program updates were provided, including completion of the OVP water infiltration project.

• Approved agenda unanimously
• Approved November 17, 2020 meeting minutes unanimously
• Adjourned meeting unanimously

Planning Commission Meeting

The Oconee County Planning Commission will review seven items, including six rezoning requests and two special use applications, at its January 19, 2021 meeting. The agenda includes commercial, residential, and senior living proposals, with the largest being a 46.87-acre commercial rezoning near major roads. The commission will also approve minutes from its December 14, 2020 meeting.

• Rezone #P20-0210: 46.87 acres at Mars Hill Road, Oconee Connector, GA 316, and Virgil Langford Road from R-1, B-1 PUD, and B-2 to B-2 (commercial)
• Rezone #P20-0199: 2.00 acres at 2751 New High Shoals Road from AG to AR (residential)
• Rezone #P20-0219: 4.47 acres at 1101 Old Barnett Shoals Road from AG to AR (residential)
• Rezone #P20-0235 and Special Use #P20-0236: 20.23 acres and 14.60 acres at 4060 Mars Hill Road for commercial and mini-warehouses
• Rezone #P20-0238: 14.88 acres at 2881 Monroe Highway for a senior living community

The Oconee County Planning Commission voted unanimously to deny a request to rezone 46.87 acres at Mars Hill Road, Oconee Connector, GA 316, and Virgil Langford Road from R-1, B-1 PUD, and B-2 to B-2 for commercial use, despite staff recommending approval with 20 conditions. The commission also approved several other rezoning and special use requests, including two agricultural-to-residential rezones, a commercial rezone and self-storage special use, a senior living modification, and a church special use modification, all unanimously.

• Denied rezone P20-0210 for 46.87 acres at Mars Hill Road to B-2 (unanimous)
• Approved rezone P20-0199 for 2.00 acres at 2751 New High Shoals Road to AR (unanimous)
• Approved rezone P20-0219 for 4.47 acres at 1101 Old Barnett Shoals Road to AR (unanimous)
• Approved rezone P20-0235 for 20.23 acres at 4060 Mars Hill Road to B-2 (unanimous)
• Approved special use P20-0236 for mini-warehouses/self-storage at 4060 Mars Hill Road (unanimous)
• Approved rezone P20-0238 for 14.88 acres at 2881 Monroe Highway for senior living (unanimous)
• Approved special use modification P20-0239 for Athens Church of Christ at 3720 Mars Hill Road (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners is meeting to discuss the county's strategic plan and may enter an executive session to discuss land acquisition, personnel matters, or potential litigation. The agenda is brief and contains no specific action items or public hearings.

• Discussion of the county strategic plan
• Possible executive session on land acquisition, personnel, or litigation

Board of Elections Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Elections will meet to certify the January 5, 2021 General/Special Election Runoff results, consider a Board of Education resolution, and discuss calling a special ELOST (Education Local Option Sales Tax) election for March 16, 2021. The meeting also includes approval of prior minutes and a possible executive session for personnel or litigation matters.

• Certification of January 5, 2021 General/Special Election Runoff
• Board of Education Resolution
• Call for March 16, 2021 Special ELOST Election
• Approval of December 7 and December 28, 2020 minutes

The Oconee County Board of Elections unanimously certified the results of the January 5, 2021 General/Special Runoff Election, as read from the official election summary and vote records. The board also unanimously approved a resolution from the Board of Education to call a special election for March 16, 2021. Minutes from the December 7 and December 28, 2020 meetings were approved with a spelling correction to Patricia Daugherty's name.

• Certified Jan. 5, 2021 runoff election results (unanimous)
• Called special election for March 16, 2021 (unanimous)
• Approved Dec. 7 and Dec. 28, 2020 meeting minutes with amendment

Board of Tax Assessors

The Oconee County Board of Tax Assessors will review minutes, appoint officers for 2021, and consider new and continuing Conservation Use Valuation (CUV) applications. They will also discuss a non-disclosure policy and consider individual non-disclosure applications from law enforcement and county agency employees. The meeting includes an executive session and is scheduled for January 12, 2021.

• Appointment of Chairman, Vice-Chairman & Secretary for 2021
• New CUV applications: Donnie Singleton (36.77 ac), Brandie & Kevin Pentecost (16.87 ac), Harry Hancock (10.00 ac)
• 17 continuation CUV applications, including Sabina Brock (102.28 ac) and Stephen & Martha Kitchens (81.38 ac)
• 2 ninth-year renewal CUV applications: Joe Thomas Estate (10.00 ac), Timothy Loudermilk (73.86 ac)
• Non-disclosure applications: Kevin Parker (law enforcement), Mary Jackson, Cheryl Newell, Jennifer Riddle, Debra Watson, Amanda Mauldin (county agency)

Tourism and Visitors Bureau

The Oconee County Tourism & Visitors Bureau Board is meeting to approve minutes, receive a treasurer's account update, and hear an overview from the executive director. The agenda is largely procedural, with no specific decisions or proposals listed.

• Approval of minutes
• Account update from treasurer
• Visitors Bureau overview by executive director
• Board comments and questions

Library Advisory Board

The Oconee County Library Board of Trustees is meeting to approve minutes, hear reports from branch managers and Friends of the Library groups, and discuss old and new business. New business includes facility presentations, a student card waiver of fines, and a print management system. The meeting is largely routine with reports and updates.

• COVID update under old business
• Student card waiver of fines discussion
• Print management system discussion
• Facility presentations
• Friends of the Library reports (Bogart, Watkinsville)

The Oconee County Library Board heard presentations on locating the new library in the county administrative building or at Wire Park, but took no vote, scheduling a called meeting instead. The board unanimously approved waiving late fines for students using linked student-library cards. A proposal for a new print management system was deferred to the next meeting.

• Approved waiver of late fines for student library cards (unanimous)
• Deferred vote on new print management system to next meeting
• Scheduled called meeting to vote on library location

Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission Meeting

This is a routine business meeting of the Keep Oconee County Beautiful Commission. The agenda includes approval of minutes, a budget report, program updates, and an executive director report, with no specific action items listed.

• Approval of minutes from November 2020 meeting
• Budget report
• Current program updates and Executive Director report

Board of Commissioners Meeting

The Oconee County Board of Commissioners will consider amendments to the Unified Development Code, a revision to the citation resolution, a mid-year employee equity adjustment, and a renewal alcohol license. The meeting also includes public comment periods and approval of the previous meeting's minutes.

• Amendments to Unified Development Code Articles 2, 3, 5, 10, 13, and 15
• Revision to Resolution for Issuance of Citations of County Ordinance Violations
• Mid-Year Employee Equity Adjustment
• 2021 Renewal Alcohol License for Alis, Inc. (T's Corner), 4500 Monroe Highway, Bogart
• Approval of December 1, 2020 Regular Meeting minutes

The Board of Commissioners unanimously approved a series of amendments to the Unified Development Code, covering event venues, mobile food service units, poultry house setbacks, dumpster screening, and other land-use regulations. They also approved a mid-year employee equity adjustment totaling $283,783.77, providing $1,000 lump-sum payments to full-time non-elected employees and $750 to permanent part-time employees. Additionally, the board adopted a resolution for issuance of citations and renewed the 2021 alcohol license for Alis, Inc. (T's Corner). No action was taken in executive session on land acquisition.

• Approved Unified Development Code amendments (unanimous)
• Approved $283,783.77 employee equity adjustment (unanimous)
• Adopted Resolution for Issuance of Citations (unanimous)
• Approved 2021 alcohol license for Alis, Inc. (unanimous)
• Approved agenda and minutes (unanimous)