Walker County public meetings in 2023

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved several high-cost purchase orders for vehicles and equipment using SPLOST and ARPA funds. The body also updated alcoholic beverage codes and appointed members to various county boards and commissions.

• Purchase of 8 vehicles from Jenkins Chrysler Dodge Jeep, Inc. for $340,170
• Purchase of 3 Ford F750 Dump Trucks from Lee Smith, Inc. for $318,831
• Rockfall mitigation repair off Dougherty Gap Road for $136,180
• Purchase of 15 radios for Sheriff's ($79,680.25) and 10 for Fire Rescue ($59,639.90) from Motorola Solutions
• Ordinance 0-06-23 to amend Chapter 4 (Alcoholic Beverages) of the Code of Walker County

Board of Assessors

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Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved a $58,034.76 purchase for two Ford Escape vehicles and voted on several zoning and variance requests. The board also rescinded a county burn ban and approved a mental health court subgrant.

• Purchase Order 2024-00000418 for $58,034.76 to Prater Ford for two 2023 Ford Escape AWD vehicles
• Approved rezone from R-2 to C-1 for 71 Center Grove Road, LaFayette
• Approved rezone from R-2 to C-1 for 807 Mission Ridge Road, Rossville
• Approved variance for less than five acres at 2549 South Dick Creek Road, LaFayette
• Resolution R-050-23 to discontinue a burn ban in Walker County

Board of Assessors

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Board of Assessors

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Planning Commission

The Walker County Planning Commission will hold public hearings to review land use requests. The body will discuss a variance for agricultural land and two requests to change residential properties to commercial zoning.

• Variance request for 2549 South Dick Creek Road (Agricultural zone)
• Rezone request from Residential to Commercial for 71 Center Grove Road
• Rezone request from Residential to C-1 Commercial for 807 Mission Ridge Road

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners ratified an executive order for a 45-day burn ban and approved a cell tower permit for TowerCo 2023 LLC. The board also passed a resolution urging Georgia state officials to improve mental health services.

• Approved a 45-day burn ban in Walker County
• Approved a cell tower permit for TowerCo 2023 LLC
• Tabled a rezone request from SAI Krisna Inc for 9180 W. Hwy 136 from CN to C-1
• Passed Resolution R-048-23 urging the Governor and General Assembly to reform mental health services
• Issued a proclamation for Veterans Day

Board of Assessors

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Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners reviewed five rezoning requests, mostly for liquor stores, denying four and approving one. The board also authorized grant applications for public transportation and a recreational trail.

• Approved rezone from R-2 to C-1 for 819 Mission Ridge Road
• Denied rezones to C-1 for 1981/1979 N. Hwy 341, 1250 Mission Ridge Road, and 5606 W. Hwy 136
• Approved $57,262.21 purchase order to Avive for 39 AED kits for the Sheriff's Office
• Approved $33,000.00 purchase order to Big Woody's Tree Service for landfill grinding services
• Approved quitclaim deed to City of LaFayette for Tax Parcel 1039-049

Board of Assessors

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Board of Assessors

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Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners voted on two rezoning requests and a parking variance, adopted the FY2024 budgets, and amended the timber harvest ordinance. A proposed Planned Unit Development at 12160 Hwy 193 was denied after public opposition; a rezoning and parking variance for a Dollar General at 2025 McFarland Ave were approved.

• Denied rezone from Agriculture to PUD for 12160 Hwy 193, Chickamauga (parcel 0263-001)
• Approved rezone to increase C-1 portion of split-zoned property at 2025 McFarland Ave, Rossville
• Approved parking variance for 2025 McFarland Ave with condition of a vegetation buffer
• Adopted FY2024 General Fund Budget and FY2024 Enterprise Funds & Special Revenue Budget
• Adopted Ordinance 0-05-23 amending Chapter 13 to join statewide timber harvest notification system

Board of Assessors

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Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors met to approve appeal waiver and release forms for two specific parcels and a list of conservation applicants. The board also received an update regarding software installation to address sewer system connection issues.

• Approval of Appeal Waiver and Release Form for 0272 047
• Approval of Appeal Waiver and Release Form for 0577 015D
• Approval of the Conservation List of Applicants

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to adopt the 2023 millage rates. The board discussed a rollback to minimize property tax increases and noted a state increase in the homestead exemption from $2,000 to $18,000.

• Adoption of millage rate set at 5.735 mills in Unincorporated Areas
• Adoption of millage rate set at 7.390 mills in Incorporated Areas
• Reported $10,537.00 increase from all properties in the county

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved millage rates for incorporated and unincorporated areas and amended the county code regarding alcoholic beverages. The board also voted on several zoning requests and updated the Planning Department's fee schedule.

• Millage rate set at 5.735 mills (unincorporated) and 7.390 mills (incorporated)
• Amended Chapter 4 (Alcoholic Beverages) of the Code of Walker County
• Planning Department inspection fees increased from $50.00 to $80.00
• Approved rezone to Industrial for 2185 Hwy 337, LaFayette
• Approved rezone to Residential/Agricultural for 2342 Foster Mill Drive, LaFayette

Alcoholic Beverage Board

The Board approved the minutes from the February 23, 2023 meeting. Members reviewed a draft letter and ordinance for the County Attorney and Board of Commissioners. The Board decided to return to a schedule of one meeting per month, contingent on the need for application reviews or other matters.

• Approved February 23, 2023 minutes (unanimous)
• Decided to return to one meeting per month if applications or matters arise

Planning Commission

The Walker County Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider land use changes and variances. The body will discuss requests to change zoning designations and allow exceptions to acreage requirements for specific properties.

• Rezone request from Residential to Residential/Agricultural for 2342 Foster Mill Drive
• Rezone request from Residential to Industrial for 2185 Hwy 337
• Variance request for less than minimum acreage at 920 Moon Lake Road
• Variance request to divide off less than minimum acreage at 1401 Drive

The Planning Commission approved a rezone for a roadside farm stand and a property expansion, along with one land division variance. A request to divide two acres for a residential build was denied.

• Approved rezone from R2 to RA for Mackenzie Perot contingent on Board of Commissioners reviewing chicken text in RA zones (Unanimous)
• Approved rezone for James Cooper, James Maples & Christopher Purcell contingent on a vegetative buffer on the road and south property line (Unanimous)
• Approved variance for Joseph Allen Adkins contingent on two smaller tracts being joined with other owner tracts (Unanimous)
• Denied variance for William & Claudia Clackum due to inconsistency with A1 zoning regulations (Unanimous)
• Approved July 20, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors reviewed the 2022 ratio study and processed property-related requests. The board decided on specific homestead exemption applications and the forwarding of real property appeals to the Board of Education.

• Approval of the Homestead List of Applicants
• Denial of homestead request for property 0320 040
• Approval of appeal waiver and release form for 0514 007
• Approval to forward real property appeals to the BOE
• Review of the Department of Audits 2022 Ratio Study showing an overall ratio of 38.9

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to discuss the adoption of millage rates for unincorporated and incorporated areas. The board heard resident questions regarding property assessments, tax credits, and the impact of state requirements on property values.

• Proposed millage rate of 5.735 mills in Unincorporated Areas
• Proposed millage rate of 7.390 mills in Incorporated Areas
• Tentative property tax increase of 6.22% in unincorporated areas
• Discussion of a sale of part of the Rock Spring industrial park to a company bringing 30-40 jobs

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing to discuss setting the millage rate at 5.735 mills for unincorporated areas and 7.390 mills for incorporated areas. Commissioners expressed interest in reviewing lower rate options before a final vote.

• Proposed millage rate of 5.735 mills in Unincorporated Areas
• Proposed millage rate of 7.390 mills in Incorporated Areas
• Proposed tax increase of 6.22% in unincorporated areas
• Governor-approved homestead exemption tax relief grant for up to $18,000 for one year

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners held a public hearing on an ordinance to amend alcoholic beverage laws but tabled the measure and its associated fee schedule for further revisions. The Board did approve a second-year Animal Assistance Services Agreement with the Georgia Department of Corrections.

• Tabled Ordinance 0-04-23 regarding Alcoholic Beverages
• Tabled Resolution to revise the fee schedule for alcoholic beverage licenses
• Approved Animal Assistance Services Agreement with Georgia Department of Corrections

Development Authority

The Development Authority approved a bond resolution for the Roper Corporation Project. The board also approved the July 2023 financial report and the minutes from the July 18, 2023 meeting.

• Approved issuance of Taxable Industrial Development Revenue Bond for Roper Corporation Project (4-0)
• Approved July 2023 financial report showing total account balance of $1,849,860.58 (4-0)
• Approved July 18, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)

Walker County Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission voted to request up to $3,000 from the Walker County Board of Commissioners for souvenirs and literature to promote the 160th Battle of Chickamauga Reenactment. Members discussed potential souvenirs and map printing costs. The Commission also discussed parking revenue sharing with JROTC.

• Approved motion to request up to $3,000 from Board of Commissioners for souvenirs and literature
• Approved the meeting agenda

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors met to approve the 2023 digest submission forms and the minutes from the July 11, 2023 meeting. The board also received an update regarding ongoing server and vendor access issues.

• Approval of 2023 digest submission forms
• Approval of July 11, 2023 meeting minutes
• Discussion of server issues and VMware fix for vendor access

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved a resolution to place a Transportation Special Purpose Local Option Sales Tax (TSPLOST) on the November 7, 2023 ballot. The board also approved an intergovernmental agreement for the distribution of those tax proceeds and a juvenile justice grant.

• Resolution to impose a Special Sales Tax for Transportation (TSPLOST) for a Nov 7, 2023 referendum
• Intergovernmental Agreement for the use and distribution of 2024 TSPLOST proceeds
• Approval of Governor Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Juvenile Justice Incentive Grant (Subgrant Y24-8-025)
• Public hearing on an ordinance to amend Chapter 4 (Alcoholic Beverages) of the County Code
• Withdrawn variance request for property at 403 Mack Coulter Road, Chickamauga

Board of Assessors

The Walker County Board of Assessors met to approve a corrected consolidation report and a new letter notifying taxpayers of late appeals. The board also granted conservation exemptions for specific parcels and approved a general list of conservation applicants.

• Approval of a letter to be mailed to taxpayers who filed appeals late
• Approval of an Amended Consolidation Report to correct tire fee errors
• Approval of appeal waiver and release form for parcel 0196 0308
• Approval of conservation requests for parcels 0262 134 (5.59 acres) and 0262 135 (7.76 acres)
• Approval of the Conservation List of Applicants

Walker County Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission approved selling sponsorship spots on a campaign map for $100 each. Members discussed the status of several wayside markers and the stabilization of the Oak Hill 1840s log cabin school. The board also received updates on reenactor registrations for the 160th Battle of Chickamauga.

• Approved selling campaign map sponsorship spots for $100 each
• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved minutes of the July 24, 20243 meeting as amended

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission approved a final plat request for NGA Harrier Developers LLC. A variance request from John Durham was withdrawn. The commission also approved the minutes from the June 15, 2023 meeting.

• Approved NGA Harrier Development final plat (unanimous)
• Approved June 15, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)
• John Durham variance request withdrawn

Development Authority

The Board approved the June 2023 financial report and previous meeting minutes. Action on the Marketing Agreement and the Independent Contractor Agreement with Walker County for the Sale of Real Property were both tabled.

• Approved June 13, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved June 2023 financial report (5-0)
• Tabled action on Marketing Agreement pending legal opinion on environmental liability (5-0)
• Tabled Independent Contractor Agreement with Walker County for the Sale of Real Property

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved several funding requests, including a grant for neighborhood outcomes and a budget amendment for pension fund evaluation. The board also authorized equipment purchases and appointed a member to the library board.

• Purchase Order 2023-00002222 for $406,518.76 to Play & Park Structures for Walker Rocks Playground Phase 1
• Resolution R-028-23 to accept American Rescue Plan Act grant terms for improving neighborhood outcomes
• Purchase Order 2023-00002161 for $32,945.50 to Southern Emergency Products LLC for vehicle equipment
• Resolution R-026-23 declaring 11 Mossberg 12 Gauge Shotguns as unserviceable surplus
• Resolution R-029-23 to amend Fiscal 2023 Budget for professional services to evaluate unfreezing a 2008 pension fund

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved the 2023 property values and the 2023/2024 budget. The board also authorized the export of the 2023 data file to the Tax Commissioner and reviewed several conservation exemption requests.

• Approval of 2023 property values
• Approval of 2023/2024 budget
• Approval of conservation requests for parcels 0296 010A, 0366 011A, 0509 026, 0587 017C, and 1059 0090
• Approval of the 2023 data file export to the Tax Commissioner
• Approval of an appeal waiver and release form for 0092 018

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of a property in LaFayette and a real property sale agreement with the Walker County Development Authority. The board also approved a partial rezone for a property in Rock Spring and tabled a variance request for a property in Chickamauga.

• Approved purchase of 311 South Main Street in LaFayette
• Approved independent contractor agreement with Walker County Development Authority for the sale of real property
• Approved partial rezone from C-1 (Commercial) to A-1 (Agricultural) for 10161 N. Hwy 27, Rock Spring
• Tabled variance request for seven variances at 0 Gilley Lane, Chickamauga
• Reviewed May 2023 Departmental Statistics

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors discussed server issues, 2023 budget needs, and the status of 592 appeals. The board also held an executive session to discuss personnel pay.

• Approval of conservation request for 0005 006A
• Report of 592 appeals as of June 20, 2023
• Discussion of budget increases for WinGap fees and vehicle repairs
• Report that the current server is 12 years old and no longer supported

Walker County Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission approved the meeting agenda and the amended minutes from May 15, 2023. Members discussed the status of several wayside markers and planned sponsorship efforts for the 160th anniversary of the Battle of Chickamauga. No new ordinances or funding requests were voted on.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved May 15, 2023, meeting minutes as amended

Planning Commission

The Walker County Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider three land-use requests. The body will review a partial rezone, a private drive variance, and a final plat approval for a multi-lot development.

• Partial rezone from Commercial to A-1 (Agricultural) for 10161 N. Hwy 27
• Variance request for more than six dwellings on a private drive at 0 Gilley Lane
• Plat approval for 22 lots at 0 Happy Valley Road

The Planning Commission approved a rezoning request for Randal Dalton and a final plat for NGA Harrier Developers LLC. A variance request for James Lyon to build cabins on a private drive was denied.

• Approved rezone of over ten acres to A-1 for Randal Dalton (unanimous)
• Denied variance request for James Lyon (unanimous)
• Approved final plat for NGA Harrier Developers LLC section ID of Hawks Ridge Development (unanimous)
• Approved May 18, 2023 meeting minutes (unanimous)

Development Authority

The Board approved the May 2023 financial report and the previous meeting's minutes. The Authority extended a consulting contract for Robert Wardlaw for six months. The Board also entered an executive session to discuss personnel and real estate.

• Approved May 16, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved May 2023 financial report (4-0)
• Extended Robert Wardlaw consulting contract for 6 months at $1,000 per month (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners met for a regular session with no items listed for action. The meeting included public comments regarding park accessibility and animal control training, followed by an executive session.

• Public inquiry regarding the status of the ADA accessible park at the Civic Center and use of SPLOST funds
• Request from Animal Services Department for Animal Control Officers to undergo mandated training via the Georgia Public Safety Training Center
• Executive session held to discuss personnel, real estate, and litigation

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors reviewed and voted on various tax exemption requests. The board approved a general list of conservation and homestead applicants while denying seven specific homestead requests. Members also discussed technical issues with a new server.

• Approved conservation exemption request for 0554 002B
• Tabled conservation request for 0005 006A pending receipt of fee check
• Approved general lists of applicants for conservation and homestead exemptions
• Denied homestead exemptions for parcels 0146 0473, 0283 015, 0353 019C, 0578 015A, 0164 091 B, 0503 010A, and 0477 002
• Entered executive session to discuss a new WmGap Contract

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of a mini hydraulic excavator for the county landfill and awarded a contract for asphalt resurfacing. The board also granted a commercial rezone for a business and a residential variance for a mobile home.

• Purchase Order 202300001337 for $160,945.00 for a Caterpillar 308 Mini Hydraulic Excavator
• Resolution R-023-23 awarding a contract to Talley Construction for asphalt resurfacing
• Rezone from R-3 to C-1 approved for Elite Air HVAC & Maintenance at 5248 Mission Ridge Road
• Variance approved for a mobile home at 5675 Chamberlain Road
• Discussion on environmental cleanup and potential sale of the Coats American Building

Planning Commission

The Walker County Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider a variance, two preliminary plat approvals for residential lots, and one rezoning request. The body will determine if these requests meet local zoning and development standards.

• Variance request for 5675 Chamberlain Road in an A-1 zone
• Preliminary plat approval for 42 lots in phase 3 of Hawks Ridge at 0 Happy Valley Road
• Preliminary plat approval for 178 lots at 2937 Happy Valley Road
• Rezone request from R-3 (Residential) to C-1 (Commercial) for 524B Mission Ridge Road

The Planning Commission approved a preliminary plat for Hawks Ridge phase three, a 166-lot plat for Mauerick Development Group, and a conditional rezone for Elite Air HVAC & Maintenance. A variance request for Ada Jackson was denied.

• Approved April 20, 2023 meeting minutes (Unanimous)
• Denied variance request for Ada Jackson (5-1)
• Approved NGA Harrier Developers Inc. preliminary plat for Hawks Ridge phase three (Unanimous)
• Approved Mauerick Development Group Inc. preliminary plat with 166 lots (Unanimous)
• Approved Elite Air HVAC & Maintenance rezone with conditions of no temporary buildings or storage containers (Unanimous)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors reviewed and voted on conservation requests for parcels with less than 10 acres. The board approved several requests based on qualifying uses such as timber, hay, and cattle, while tabling one request pending documentation.

• Approved conservation for parcel 0039 005 (8.68 and 69 acres) for hay and soybeans
• Approved conservation for parcel 0062 038 (6.48 and 51.06 acres) for timber
• Approved conservation for parcel 0353 019D (2.83 acres) for hay and horses
• Approved conservation for parcel 0487 0068 (8.15 acres) for hay and cattle
• Tabled conservation request for parcel 0554 0023 (8.48 acres) pending documentation

Development Authority

The Development Authority approved a Quitclaim Deed for approximately 3.5 acres of land on Williams Street in Rossville to the Walker County Board of Education. The board also approved the agenda, previous meeting minutes, and financial reports for March and April 2023.

• Approved Quitclaim Deed for ~3.5 acres on Williams Street to Walker County Board of Education (4-0)
• Approved March 2023 financial report with balance of $1,552,379.24 (4-0)
• Approved April 2023 financial report with balance of $1,553,058.15 (4-0)
• Approved April 10, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved a purchase for fire rescue equipment and a zoning variance for a resident. The board also authorized a grant application for an inclusive playground and received an update on rising property assessments.

• Purchase order 2023-00000854 for $65,336.00 for air pak and cylinder units for Walker County Fire Rescue
• Approved variance for Jose and Damaris Martinez to place a mobile home at 132 Learning to Lean Lane
• Resolution R-022-23 to apply for a Land and Water Conservation Fund grant up to $300,000.00 for a playground
• Property assessment update reporting a 30% overall increase in values this year
• Discussion on plans to preserve and move the Oak Hill School structure

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors approved the 2023 preliminary values for real property and the personal property change of assessments. The body also decided on various tax exemption requests and authorized the mailing of 2023 assessment notices.

• Approved 2023 preliminary real property values, noting base home price increased from $99 to $118 per square foot
• Confirmed a breach of covenant for parcel 0323 041A with penalties of $15,933.72
• Denied exemption request for Chattanooga Valley Baptist Church (parcel 0053 001A)
• Approved tax exemptions for Providence Ministries, Inc (Acct# 21949 and 21970)
• Authorized 30-day cease and desist letters for 12 specific parcels

Planning Commission

The Walker County Planning Commission will hold a public hearing regarding a variance request. The commission will discuss a request for less than required acreage in an Agricultural zone.

• Variance request for Jose & Damaris Martinez at 132 Learning to Lean Lane

The Planning Commission denied a variance request from Jose and Damaris Martinez to place an additional home on their property. A motion to approve the request contingent upon medical hardship documentation failed, and a subsequent motion to deny the request passed.

• Approved March 16, 2022 meeting minutes (6-0, 1 abstention)
• Denied variance request for Jose & Damaris Martinez (4-3)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors reviewed tax exemption requests for local churches and residents. The body also decided on the release and approval of conservation covenants for specific land parcels.

• Approved tax exemptions for First Baptist Church parcels 1031-044, 1031-048, 1031-049, 1031-050, and 1031-051
• Tabled exemption request for Chattanooga Valley Baptist Church Inc (0053-001A)
• Approved release of conservation covenant for parcel 0556-001
• Approved conservation requests for parcels 0318-026A and 0450-005A
• Approved the list for homestead exemptions and denied one request for parcel 0023-001A

Walker County Historic Preservation Commission

The commission approved the meeting agenda and the minutes from the April 17, 2023, meeting. The session consisted primarily of historical presentations and status updates on various markers and sites; no new ordinances or funding contracts were decided.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved minutes of the April 17, 2023, meeting

Board of Commissioners

The Walker County Board of Commissioners approved the 2023 road paving list, a revised public safety fee, an electronic policy amendment, and an EMS council appointment. They also heard the Fiscal 2022 audit report and a presentation on the fire department's operations and fee proposal.

• Approved Resolution R-018-23 for 2023 road paving list (bids due by May 1)
• Approved Resolution R-019-23 revising public safety fee (average 1,500 sq ft home fee from $150 to $210)
• Approved Purchase Order 2023-00001464 for $73,365.76 for two Ford Explorers
• Approved Resolution R-021-23 appointing Curtis Creekmur to EMS council
• Fiscal 2022 audit presented with unmodified opinion

Development Authority

The Development Authority approved the sale of up to 5 acres of land in the Northwest Georgia Business & Industrial Park. The board also approved the Roper Series 2023 Inducement Resolution.

• Approved Roper Series 2023 Inducement Resolution (4-0)
• Approved sale of up to 5 acres in Northwest Georgia Business & Industrial Park to Laurence Richardson of METCO Metal Fab (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)
• Approved March 14, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors reviewed conservation status for several properties and discussed server updates. The board approved two conservation requests and voted to send a breach of covenant letter for one property. Exemption requests for First Baptist Church were tabled due to member recusals.

• Approved conservation request for parcel 0481 050
• Approved conservation request for parcel 0523 0208
• Voted to send a breach of covenant letter for parcels 0323 041A and 0323 041D
• Tabled exemption requests for First Baptist Church parcels 1031-044, 1031-048, 1031-049, 1031-050, and 1031-051
• Entered executive session to discuss a fee increase

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved several public safety purchases and new administrative policies. The board also heard multiple variance and rezoning requests for properties in LaFayette and Rossville.

• Purchase Order 2023-00001335 for 84 fire hydrants totaling $358,881.60
• Purchase Order 2023-00000937 for 13 sets of turnout gear for Walker County Fire Rescue for $39,487.50
• Resolution R-017-23 adopting an employee electronic property and communications system policy
• Resolution R-016-23 adopting a records center access policy
• Approved variance for Wesley and Maruim Smith to divide property at 2030 Dunwoody Road

Alcoholic Beverage Board

The Board approved a new application for an existing location. Members also reviewed and edited wording for an ordinance regarding structure size, lighting, security cameras, and visibility.

• Approved minutes from January 26 and February 9, 2023 (Unanimous)
• Approved application for Shri Kehsav LLC (Unanimous)
• Decided to meet March 9 to review a draft ordinance before presenting it to the Board of Commissioners

Walker County Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission approved the agenda and February minutes. Members were assigned research tasks for several proposed wayside markers, including the Estelle Iron Ore Mines and Cemetery and the Oak Grove School. The Commission reviewed bulk pricing for interpretive signs to reduce costs.

• Approved agenda as presented
• Approved February 20, 2023 minutes
• Assigned research for Estelle Iron Ore Mines and Cemetery to John Culpepper
• Assigned research for Wright’s Mineral Springs Summer Resort to Theresa Dorsey and Frances Cobb
• Assigned research for Walker County Rosenwald Schools to Theresa Dorsey
• Assigned research for Oak Hill log cabin school to Randall Pittman
• Assigned research for McLemore Cove, Daugherty Plantation, Civil War and Native American History to John Culpepper
• Assigned research for Oak Grove School to Randall Pittman and John Culpepper

Planning Commission

The Walker County Planning Commission will hold public hearings to consider three variance requests and two rezoning applications. The body will also review a final plat approval for a new development.

• Variance request for 1758 County Line Road to divide less than five acres
• Variance request for 2030 Dunwoody Road to divide less than five acres
• Variance request for 0 Pine Valley Drive regarding a private drive
• Rezone requests for 0 Pine Valley Drive and the corner of East Broomtown Road @ Blue Mountain Lane
• Plat approval for 45 lots at Hawks Ridge Development on 0 Happy Valley Road

The Planning Commission denied three variance requests related to property separation and shared driveways. The commission approved a rezone request for agricultural use and a final plat for NGA Harrier Developers LLC.

• Variance for Alexandria Howard denied (unanimous)
• Variance for Wesley & Mary Smith denied (5-1)
• Variance for John & Melissa Stanley denied (unanimous)
• Rezone for John Stanley approved (unanimous)
• Final Plat for NGA Harrier Developers LLC approved (unanimous)
• Rezone request for Daniel J. Waters withdrawn
• February 16, 2022 meeting minutes approved

Development Authority

The Development Authority approved the agenda and the minutes from the February 14, 2023 meeting. The board approved the February financial report, which noted a total account balance of $1,551,181.11 as of February 28, 2023. No action was taken following an executive session regarding real estate.

• Approved the meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved February 14, 2023 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved February financial report (5-0)

Alcoholic Beverage Board

The Board reviewed and agreed upon changes to be recommended to the Board of Commissioners. The Board also discussed the potential implementation of a servers license.

• Agreed to send reviewed changes to the Board of Commissioners
• Chairman Hughes tasked with researching Catoosa regulations for a potential servers license

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved updated pricing for the Walker County Landfill and adopted a new workplace anti-harassment policy. The board also received updates on fire fleet repairs and storm cleanup efforts.

• Resolution R-013-23: Adopted new material list and price guide for Walker County Landfill
• Resolution R-014-23: Adopted a new Anti-Harassment Policy for county employees
• Proclamation for Multiple Myeloma Awareness Month
• Announcement of a tire amnesty day on April 22
• Report of 12 fire trucks currently in service with a goal to return 23 to service

Board of Assessors

The Walker County Board of Assessors met to update administrative policies and approve applicant lists. The board decided on new requirements for combining properties and approved a cost increase for mailing notices.

• Approved new policy requiring all property taxes be paid before properties can be combined
• Approved mailing notice cost increase from .51 cents to .55 cents via Harris Computer Systems
• Approved the Conservation List of Applicants
• Received update on sewer process regarding computer installation and property record cards

Alcoholic Beverage Board

The board approved new applications for two existing locations. Members also discussed requirements for a new county liquor store ordinance and agreed to meet twice monthly during February and March.

• Approved Tobey Hill as Vice Chairman (unanimous)
• Approved October 27, 2022 minutes (unanimous)
• Approved new application for Uncle (unanimous)
• Approved new application for Rossville Foodmart (unanimous)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is meeting to consider rezoning requests and variance applications. The body will also review equipment purchases and resolutions regarding county preservation and environmental agreements.

• Public hearing for rezoning to R72 (Residential) at Reed Road and North Highway GA 307
• Variance request for property at Magnolia Street, Russville, GA
• Purchase of a P3 Loader for $24,953
• Purchase of a Partner Truck for $72,200 funded by 2020 SPLOST
• Resolution regarding the Walker County Naturally Preserved Areas Resource Survey

Board of Assessors

The Walker County Board of Assessors met to review tax exemption requests and administrative updates. The board approved lists of homestead and conservation applicants and adopted a new motor vehicle safety checklist.

• Approval of the Motor Vehicle Safety Checklist
• Approval of the List of Homestead Applicants
• Approval of 2022 Veterans Homestead Applicants
• Denial of homestead request for parcel 0129 017 because it was not the primary residence
• Approval of the Conservation List of Applicants

Walker County Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission indefinitely tabled discussions on securing funding for the Chief John Ross House roof at the request of the house association. Members also planned a work session to review the Board Commissioner’s Activity Report and discussed several interpretive signage projects.

• Approved February 20, 2023, meeting agenda
• Approved February 20, 2023, meeting minutes
• Approved work session for February 23, 2023, at 5:30pm
• Tabled funding assistance for Chief John Ross House roof repair indefinitely (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Walker County Planning Commission will hold public hearings regarding two property requests. The body will discuss a lot size variance and a request to change a property's zoning from commercial to residential.

• Lot size variance request for 1003 Magnolia Street, Rossville
• Rezone request from C-1 (Commercial) to R-2 (Residential) at East Reed Road and N. Hwy 27, LaFayette

The Planning Commission approved a request to rezone a 1.03-acre property from commercial to R-2. A variance request to place a single wide mobile home on a lot that did not meet requirements was denied.

• Approved rezoning of Mack Pettigrew property from commercial to R-2 (unanimous)
• Denied variance for Marolyn Saunders to place a mobile home (6-1)
• Approved January 19, 2022 meeting minutes

Development Authority

The Board approved an avigation easement on Development Authority property to ensure unobstructed flight for the Barwick-LaFayette Airport. The Board also approved the January financial report and meeting minutes. No action was taken following the executive session on real estate.

• Approved avigation easement for Barwick-LaFayette Airport (4-0)
• Approved January 2023 financial report showing balance of $1,277,044.51 (4-0)
• Approved January 10, 2023 meeting minutes (4-0)
• Approved meeting agenda (4-0)

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved funding for new vehicles and specialized breathing apparatus for emergency responders. The board also appointed a new member to the Water and Sewerage Authority and approved an employee status transfer.

• Purchase Order 2023-00000841: $58,034.76 for two 2023 Ford Escapes
• Purchase Order 2023-00000848: $31,338.00 for six Self Contained Breathing Apparatus devices
• Resolution R-010-23: Appointment of Adam Chrnalogar to the Walker County Water and Sewerage Authority Board
• Resolution R-009-23: Transfer of employee Sondra Bailey to state employee status
• Discussion on hiring a specialized fire equipment mechanic with a target pay of $60,000 to $65,000

Alcoholic Beverage Board

The Board discussed design requirements for new liquor stores, including security cameras, square footage, and building attachment. No formal votes or policy changes were decided during the meeting.

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors reviewed and voted on conservation covenant requests for several parcels of land. The board also received an update regarding server issues affecting data reporting.

• Approved voluntary breach of conservation covenant for parcel 0381 029
• Approved conservation covenant continuance for parcel 0064 038B
• Approved conservation covenant continuance for parcel 0260 005
• Approved conservation covenant renewals for parcels 0330 058, 0526 008A, and 0580 017B
• Approved the Conservation List of Applicants

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners is reviewing and adopting amendments to the county's land development and road maintenance codes. The meeting also addresses expectations and training requirements for members of county boards and commissions.

• Ordinance 0-01-23: Amends Land Development code regarding variance procedures
• Ordinance 0-02-23: Amends Road and Right-of-Way code regarding minimum maintenance requirements
• Ordinance 0-03-23: Establishes expectations and training for board and commission members
• Resolution regarding required training for Walker County Planning Commission members
• Discussion of a potential $159 payment

Alcoholic Beverage Board

The board approved the minutes from the October 27, 2022 meeting. No new applications were reviewed, and the board discussed beverage renewals.

• Approved October 27, 2022 minutes (unanimous)

Planning Commission

The Planning Commission will meet to elect 2023 officers and hold a public hearing regarding a development project. The body will consider a final plat approval for a residential project in Rossville.

• Final plat approval request for 37 lots at Hawks Ridge Development on Happy Valley Road (Tax map & parcel 19-002A)
• Election of 2023 Planning Commission officers

The Planning Commission approved a final plat for a 37-lot development. The board also elected its 2023 officers and discussed potential changes to how the Board of Commissioners handles variance appeals.

• Approved Michael Hicks as vice chairman (unanimous)
• Approved December 15, 2022 meeting minutes (carried; Michael Hicks abstained)
• Approved final plat for NGA Harrier Developers LLC/Hawks Ridge (unanimous)

Walker County Historic Preservation Commission

The Commission approved a quote from Pannier Graphics for a wayside marker and will request funding from the Board of Commissioners. Members also decided to amend the Board of Commissioner activity report to run through December 31, 2022.

• Approved $1,580 quote from Pannier Graphics for Durham Mining Community Wayside Marker
• Approved November 21, 2022, meeting minutes
• Approved meeting agenda
• Decided to amend Walker County Board of Commissioner activity report to run through December 31, 2022

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors met to review and approve tax-related exemptions and records requests. The body voted on the eligibility of homestead applicants and an information request for a local airport.

• Approval of the 2023 Homestead Exemption List of Applicants
• Denial of Homestead Request for 03212 023 because the property is not in the applicant's name
• Approval of an open records request letter to the City of Lafayette Airport

Board of Commissioners

The Board of Commissioners approved several resolutions regarding county appointments, compensation, and service agreements. The board also held public hearings on ordinances related to land development, roads, and board member expectations.

• Purchase Order 2023-00000463 for 10 vehicles totaling $377,624.00
• Annual compensation for the Walker County Coroner set at $32,400.00
• Bid approval for Local Government Services Building in Rock Spring (Project 2023-01)
• Agreement with Georgia Mountain Regional Commission for Orthoimagery and LiDAR Project
• Appointment of John Howard to the Walker County Board of Assessors

Development Authority

The board approved the December 2022 meeting minutes and the December financial report. The board also voted to maintain the same slate of officers for the 2023 term.

• Approved meeting agenda (5-0)
• Approved December 13, 2022 meeting minutes (5-0)
• Approved December financial reports (5-0)
• Re-elected Andy Arnold (Chair), Max Morrison (Vice Chair), and Jim Cole (Secretary/Treasurer) for 2023 (5-0)

Board of Assessors

The Board of Assessors met to elect leadership and approve the 2023 prebill values and data file for the Tax Commissioner. The board also reviewed and voted on conservation covenant requests for three specific parcels.

• Approval of 2023 Prebill Values
• Approval to send 2023 Prebill Data File to the Tax Commissioner
• Approval of conservation covenant renewal for parcel 0255 006
• Approval of conservation covenant continuance for parcel 0535 010A
• Approval of conservation covenant continuance for parcel 0544 016