Call To Order: 6:01pm

Approval of 6/16/2026 Commission Minutes and 6/16/2026 Executive Session Minutes: Yay 5, No 0

Special Recognition/Presentation:

• Columbia County Fire Rescue 2026 Boot Drive Check Represntation to Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation and Columbia County Community Connection: approximately $28,000

Consent Agenda. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

1. Community and Emergency Services Committee

   1. (H1a) Columbia Judicial Circuit Independent Contractor Agreement with CSRA Probation Services, Inc.

   2. (H1b) Rental Agreement with State Properties Commission for the Department of Community Supervision

   3. (H1c) Acceptance of the FY2025 Emergency Management Performance Grant

   4. (H1d) FY27 Criminal Justice Coordinating Council Grant for the State Accountability Court Program

   5. (H1e) Animal Services Donations

   6. (H1f) Senior Center Donation

   7. (H1g) Service Agreement with the Columbia County Ballet for Ballet in the Park Event

   8. (H1h) Service Agreements with Columbia County Community Connections and the Southeastern Firefighters Burn Foundation from the 2026 Fire Rescue Boot Drive Proceeds

2. Development and Planning Services Committee

   1. (H2a) Alcoholic Beverage License Griffin’s Steakhouse LLC

3. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee

   1. (H3a) Implementation of FM Live Fuel Point Hardware and Software with FuelMaster

   2. (H3b) Professional Services Contract with Booker + Vick Architects for the Columbia County Roads and Bridges Administration Office

   3. (H3c) Change Order Number One with Blair Construction for Water System Improvements Cleaning Phase I

   4. (H3d) Purchase of Water Meters for FY26/27 from Sensus, Inc

   5. (H3e) Award 2026019-BID5100 to Blair Construction for the Hunter’s Ridge Lift Station Replacement

   6. (H3f) Independent Contractor Agreement with Hydrologics, Inc. for a Zero Discharge Flushing Program

   7. (H3g) Resolution 26-11 to Increase the Speed Limit and Reclassify Kelarie Way to a Minor Collector Road

   8. (H3h) Lighting Services Agreements with Georgia Power to Upgrade Street Lighting at Various Locations - Phase IV

   9. (H3i) Non-Residential Gas Extension Contract with Atlanta Gas Light (AGL) to serve the installation of a Backup Generator for the Traffic Signal at the intersection of River Watch Pkwy and Baston Rd

   10. (H3j) Contract# 2025-3325, Change Order 1 for TIA 2, Group 6 Resurfacing with Reeves Construction

   11. (H3k) Facility Use Agreement with the Clarks Hill Beekeepers Association for use of the Baker Place Road Municipal Solid Waste Landfill

   12. (H3l) Contract# 2026-3609 with Surveying and Mapping, LLC for Prior Rights Research for the Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project, PI# 012865

   13. (H3m) 2026 Annual Renewal of Columbia County’s Title VI Plan relating to Federal Assistance for Transportation Programs and Activities

Debate Agenda

1. Unfinished Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I1a1) Resolution 26-14 Amending Fee Schedule for Development Services - Second Reading Approve: Yay 5, No 0

2. New Business

   1. Management and Internal Services Committee

      1. (I2a1) Resolution 26-15: Requesting and Directing the Board of Elections to Call and Conduct a Referendum Pursuant to House Bill 439 Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Johnson: HB 439 part of county’s effort to reduce, and eventually eliminate, county homestead property taxes. Previously increased homestead exemption from $2000 to $10,000. This allows voters to consider exemption up to $18,000 (max allowed without constitutional amendment). County intends to use rollback rate for 2027 millage rate. (Meaning, lower millage rate enough to offset higher property assessments and avoid net increase from reassessments. County has reduced millage rate in 10 of past 11 years except COVID year when it stayed the same.

   2. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I2b1) Alcoholic Beverage License Jones Creek Golf Course LLC Approve: Yay 5, No 0

      2. (I2b2) VA26-06-01, Variance to Section 90-135 Signs, 4015 Gateway Blvd, Tax Map 068 Parcel 1667, 1.71 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-2 (General Commercial). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Increased Applebee’s Signage. 89 square feet of awning signs. Wall sign on west elevation. Wall sign on east elevation that exceed normal maximum. In response to commission questions: No complaints from other businesses and would not create precedent for other businesses seeking larger signs.

      3. (I2b3) RZ26-06-01, Major PUD (Planned Unit Development) Revision, 1868 Champions Circle, Tax Map 065 Parcel 251, 0.83 +/- acres, and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Reduce setback from 50 feet to 25 feet for a pool.

      4. (I2b4) RZ26-06-02, Major PUD (Planned Unit Development) Revision, 3982 Hammonds Ferry Court, Tax Map 077H Parcel 369, 0.399 +/- acres, and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development) and Easement Encroachment. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Change setback from 10 ft to 2 ft so homeowner can put in a pool.

         Neighbor: Objected because he said that excavation that close to the property line could damage the critical root zone of the mature trees on his property, which is behind this property. He cited an arborist report and said the issue might not show up immediately, but trees could decline or die within 1-3 years. He was concerned about who would be responsible for tree removal or if the trees caused other property damage.

         (Chris Driver, board’s attorney, briefly addressed liability issues, but ultimately advised that this would be a civil matter and he couldn’t give legal advice.)

         Owner: Responded that the pool would not be two feet from the property line along the entire fence. The pool would likely be at least 5 feet from property line.

         (Neighbor and homeowner then briefly discussed responsibility for future tree damage/removal. They were going to work together.)

      5. (I2b5) RZ26-06-03, Major S-1 (Special) Revision, 460 Furys Ferry Road, Tax Map 082 Parcel 076A, 2.27 +/- acres, and currently zoned S-1 (Special). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Zoned for S-1 for a daycare. Daycare owner decided to sell property and new owner wants to use it as a medical office treating children. No comments from nearby property owners.

      6. (I2b6) RZ26-06-04, Major PUD (Planned Unit Development) Revision, 401 Bartram Trail Club Drive, Tax Map 060 Parcel 1695, 20.57 +/- acres, and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development). Disapprove: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Proposed single-family residential development on property currently designated C-2 Commercial.

         After the vote, Eric Beddingfield: He said that staff and the planning committee recommended approval. (He seemed surprised)

         Commissioner Melear: Explained that while staff and the planning committee make recommendations, the final approval comes from the Board of Commissioners, and they disapproved.

      7. (I2b7) RZ26-06-05, Major PUD (Planned Unit Development) Revision, 785 Jones Creek, Tax Map 078 Parcel 057U, 0.78 +/- acres, and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Existing amenities predate the current setback requirements. HOA wants to expand the building, they need to establish new setbacks for pool area. (Commissioner Melear had a lot of questions about the project in regards to parking of construction equipment, fencing requirements, etc.)

         Tripp Nanney (On behalf of HOA): Replacing 35+ year old pool house. Add ADA-compliant restrooms and pool entrances, enlarge pump room, address flooding/plumbing problems.

         Homeowner of nearby property: Satisfied with revised plans provided HOA follows through with no 2nd story balcony overlooking his property, add an appropriate privacy fence, and landscape buffering.

         Schlachter: Confirmed that required fence and landscaping would have to be installed before certificate of occupancy could be issued.

      8. (I2b8) RZ26-06-06, Change of Conditions, 4434 Columbia Road, Tax Map 073G Parcel 082, 0.86 +/- acres, and currently zoned P-1 (Professional). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Remove a condition imposed in 2015 that limited the Parcel to only one massage business. This will allow more than one massage therapy business to operate on the property.

   3. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee

      1. (I2c1) Contract #2026-3538 with Eleven-X to Purchase their Smart Parking System eXactpark) for the Parking Deck and Parking Lots around the Performing Arts Center. Approve: Yay 4, No 1 (Connie Melear)

         One-time capital cost $323,265.99. Annual cost $37,230.48. System will show how many parking spaces are available in the area (including parking deck, but not limited to the parking deck.) Help people find parking during large events and better use existing parking before spending money on additional parking. Staff was able to reduce annual cost and had app included in one-time purchase. Steed stated it could help with safety because people can drive right to their parking spot.

Public Comments

• Helen Willingham: On behalf of Willingham Estate. Discuss adding access to county water, road paving, name of road was changed from Willingham Dr to Beehive Dr and would like to switch it back. Commissioners Carraway and Steed will meet with descendents and county officials.

• Timothy Alrich: Discussed property tax options

• Morgan Evans: Requested a traffic safety study be conducted of the intersection on William Few between the Kroger and McDonalds. Schlachter responded that the county had already begun looking into it after Ms. Evans contacted them. There have been 28 accidents in 3 years, including 10 with injuries. He discussed different possibilities but it needs to be studied more to look at all possibilities of routing traffic in the area.

• Susan Warren: Data Centers

Executive Session

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Acceptance of a temporary construction Easement (175 square feet) from Evans Enterprise of Augusta, LLC for Washington Road Corridor Traffic Improvement Project. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

   2. (M1b) Acceptance of a temporary construction Easement (435 square feet) from CAlvin Toliver for Horizon South Parkway/Chandler Rd Connector Project. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

Adjourn: 7:16pm.

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday 7/21/2026 at 6:00pm in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center.

Call To Order: 6:00pm

Approval of 5/19/2026 meeting minutes: Yay 5, No 0

Consent Agenda Approve Yay 5, No 0

1. Community and Emergency Services Committee Commissioner Steed

   1. (H1a) Proclamation Recognizing the Anniversary of First Mount Moriah Baptist Church

   2. (H1b) Animal Services Donation

   3. (H1c) Independent Contractor Agreement with 1 to 4 Pickleball Services

   4. (H1d) Library Services Agreement with the Columbia County Library System

   5. (H1e) Memorandum of Understanding and Annual Financial Agreement with UGA Cooperative Extension for Personnel Salary Reimbursement for Fiscal Year 2027

   6. (H1f) Contract with Gold Cross EMS for Emergency Medical Services

   7. (H1g) Blood Services Agreement with Shepeard Community Blood Center

2. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee Commissioner Carraway

   1. (H2a) Ancillary Dwelling Variance, 5314 Magnolia Lane, Tax map 060 Parcel 142, 3.0 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural).

   2. (H2b) Purchase of a Peterbilt Dump Truck from Peterbilt of Atlanta for Water Utility

   3. (H2c) County Fleet Vehicle Upfitting Service Agreement with Blue Badger Upfitters, LLC.

   4. (H2d) Payment to Cayenta for Annual Subscription

   5. (H2e) Independent Contractor Agreement with Bluewater Engineering for W. Milledgeville Rd Sewer Modification

   6. (H2f) AT&T Encroachment Agreement at Parcel 052 1837 for the Euchee Creek Harlem

      Interceptor Project

   7. (H2g) Independent Contractor Agreement with Ardurra for General Engineering Services related to the 620 System Modifications and Upgrades on an as-needed basis

   8. (H2h) County Acknowledgment, Permit Transfer Consent and Rent Guarantee Agreement with Alamo Farms and Cattle LLC.

   9. (H2i) Contract Amendment Number One with Hudson’s Grassing Co, Inc. for Biosolids Management Services

   10. (H2j) Purchase of GameChanger Turning Movement Traffic Systems through Rhythm Engineering

   11. H2k) Consulting Agreement with GA Power to Install Multiple Electric Vehicle Charging Stations in Columbia County Parks

   12. (H2l) BID# 2026013-BID5200 and Contract# 2026-3535 with US Infra Rehab Services, LLC for the One Marshall Place Storm Drain UV Lining Rehabilitation Project

   13. (H2m) Bid# 2026018-BID3313 and Contract# 2026-3567 with East Coast Grading for the 2026 LMIG

   14. (H2n) Supplemental Agreement No. 1 with GDOT for TIA 2, Group 6 Resurfacing

   15. (H2o) 2026 Local Road Assistance (LRA) Application with Georgia Department of Transportation

   16. (H2p) Contract 2024-3013 Renewal # 1 with Infrastructure Consulting and Engineering, LLC for Construction Engineering and Inspection Services for Roadway Projects

   17. (H2q) Renewal Number 2 of Contract# 2024-2834 with International Appraisal & Research Group (IAR) for Appraisal and Acquisition Services related to TIA and GDOT Projects

   18. (H2r) Easement Agreement with the Department of the Army for the continued Operation and Maintenance of a portion of Burns Road

   19. (H2s) Acceptance of Improvements at Highland Lakes West Section II

   20. (H2t) Acceptance of Improvements at Wrights Farm Section 4 Lots 285-307

   21. (H2u) Acceptance of Utility Easements for Shelby Properties, LLC

   22. (H2v) Acceptance of Easements for F&A of Evans, LLC Tractor Supply

   23. (H2w) Acceptance of Easements for AU Medical Center, Inc

Debate Agenda

1. Unfinished Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Commision

      1. (I1a1) RZ26-05-04, Rezoning from R-A (Residential Agricultural) & PUD (Planned Unit Development) to PRD (Planned Residential Development), off Baker Place Road, Tax Map 051 Parcel 008H, 54.8 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural) & PUD (Planned Unit Development). - Postponed from May 19, 2026

         Withdrawal Without Prejudice. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Developer requested to withdraw at this time.

2. New Business

   1. Community and Emergency Services Committee

      1. (I2a1) Resolution Number 26-13 Dedicating the New Columbia County Park on Hardy McManus Road in Honor of Former Commissioner Don Skinner, Sr. Approve: Yay 4, No 1 (Melear)

   2. Management and Internal Services Committee

      1. (I2b1) Resolution 26-12 Adopting an Annual Budget for All Funds of Columbia County, Georgia for Fiscal Year 2026/2027. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Johnson: Working on the budget for about 6 months using zero-based budgeting. Boards goals: no property tax increase, reduce taxes if possible, maintain county services despite continued growth. General fund increase 1.95% compared to about 3% last year. Keeping growth below 2% notable given population growth, new facilities and infrastructure, and increased service demands. 22 new county positions: jail deputies, EMA personnel, parks & rec to maintain new parks/facilities. Target contingency reservice is 2.5%. Includes 3% COLA for employees. Employee health insurance cost increases - medical increase 10%. County attorney rates increased $20/hr. Hadn’t been rate increase in awhile.

      2. (I2b2) Acceptance of Additional ARPA Funds for the Columbia Judicial Circuit Grant CY2026 ARPA 3Y009. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         $71,420

   3. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I2c1) RZ26-05-06, Conditional Use for Therapeutic Massage, 120 North Belair Road, Tax Map 073C Parcel 053, 1.16 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-2 (General Commercial). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Salon previously offered massage therapy services but discontinued during Covid after losing staff. Service inactive for over a year and county regulations changed, business required to obtain new conditional use permit. One massage therapist operating within existing salaon.

      2. (I2c2) RZ26-05-07, Rezoning from P-1 (Professional) to C-C (Community Commercial), 406 North Belair Rd and 601 Ponder Place Drive, Tax Map 073 Parcels 366B & 366C, a combined 2.64 +/- acres, and currently zoned P-1 (Professional). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: This is for a bank drive-thru in Evans Towne Center. Showed a non-binding concept including one Parcel. Proposal meets requirements of Evans Town Center District. 2nd Parcel does not yet have a development plan. All future development will still be required to meet standards and go through the review process.

Public Comments: None

Executive Session

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Property A: Approve: Yay 5, No 0. Acceptance of donated portion of property from Eubank Family for construction of right-turn lane serving new elementary school on Ray Owens Road

   2. (M1b) Property B: Approve: Yay 5, No 0. $79,000 payment to George and Cheryl Newman for right-of-way and easements needed for Hereford Farm Road Widening Project. Last acquisition.

   3. (M1c) Property C: Approve Yay 5, No 0. Accepted a donated easement from David Byrd Enterprises LLP for Harlem Force Main Project. Project remains on schedule with a target completion date of December 2026.

Adjourn: 6:16pm

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday, June 16, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center.

Call To Order: 6:00 pm

Approval of 5/5/2026 Commission Meeting Minutes: Yay 5, No 0

Approval of 5/5/2026 Budget Public Hearing Minutes: Yay 5, No 0

Consent Agenda. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

1. Management and Internal Services Committee

   1. (H1a) RFP# 2026004-RFP1313: Disaster Debris Management Services Agreement with Ceres Environmental Services, Inc.

   2. (H1b) RFP# 2026005-RFP1313: Disaster Debris Monitoring Services Agreement with Debristech, LLC.

   3. (H1c) RFP# 2026009-RFP1313: Disaster Recovery Public Assistance Consulting Services Agreement with Synergy Disaster Recovery LLC.

   4. (H1d) RFP#2026007-RFP1011 Temporary Workers & Payroll Agreement with Augusta Temporary Services, Inc. dba Augusta Staffing Associates

   5. (H1e) Building C Network Equipment Lifecycle Purchase

   6. (H1f) Professional Services Addendum with Clariti Cloud Inc. for the Implementation of Clariti Permitting and Licensing Solution

   7. (H1g) Award Bid # 2026015-BID3000 and Contract to Sommers Construction, LLC for the Construction of the Restroom Facilities at Evans Towne Center Park and the Racquet Center

   8. (H1h) Award RFP Professional Services Contract with Craig Gaulden Davis Architecture, LLC | PBK for the Design of the Columbia County Fire Rescue Engine Company 13 Replacement Station

   9. (H1i) Contract Renewal Number 3 with Northwest Exterminating Co., Inc. for Exterminating Services

   10. (H1j) Contract Renewal Number 3 with Otis Elevator Company for Elevator Maintenance

   11. (H1k) Contact Renewal Number 1 with ADSI Moving Systems

   12. (H1l) Contract Renewal Number 4 with A-Com Security Company, LLP dba Acom Integrated Solutions for Fire and Intrusion Monitoring Services

   13. (H1m) Contract Renewal Number 1 with E Logic Incorporated for Move Management Services

   14. (H1n) Professional Services Contract with Booker + Vick Architects for the Design of the Columbia County Vice & Narcotics Unit Office Building

   15. (H1o) Contract Renewal Number 1 with KAMO Manufacturing Company, Inc. for the Purchase of Janitorial Supplies

2. Development and Planning Services Committee

   1. (H2a) Bid# 2026001-BID3313 and Contract# 2026-3565 with Gearig Civilworks for the Horizon South - Chamblin Connector Project

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I1a1) VA26-05-01, Variance to Section 90-53 List of lot and structure requirements, 417 Hastings Place, Tax Map 082I Parcel 422, 0.47 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-3 (Single Family Residential) and easement encroachment agreement. Approve: Yay 5, No 0 (with condition that homeowner apply for building permit within 10 business days.)

         Tammy Pye (Homeowner): Would like to keep added cover/awning structure attached to home. Didn’t realize a permit was required, and even the code enforcement officer was initially unsure. She advised that she was never told to stop work and completed the structure while permit process was pending. Uses the area when watching her grandchild during the week.

         Lee Prim: Ms. Pye’s neighbor spoke in support and described Ms. Pye as a good neighbor. Stated the structure caused no visible harm or neighborhood issue.

         Joe Mitchell: Ms. Pye’s neighbor. Noted that original structure existed before a neighbor that was opposed to the structure, moved in. (Opposing neighbor was at planning meeting I think, but not at this meeting).

         Schlachter: Involves 3 parts: a building permit, setback Variance and easement Encroachment Agreement. Structure extends into the side setback and drainage easement, commission had to approve variance and encroachment before permit could be issued.

      2. (I1a2) VA26-05-02, Variance to Section 90-144 Placement of building and structures, 4044 Mullikin Road, Tax Map 077I Parcel 367, 0.24 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-2 (Single Family Residential). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Homeowner has an existing 6ft fence but because of the way the backyard slopes, would like an 8 ft privacy fence to give more privacy while enjoying above ground pool in backyard.

      3. (I1a3) RZ26-05-01, Rezoning from R-A (Residential Agricultural) to PRD (Planned Residential Development), 5703 Wrightsboro Road and off Wrightsboro Road, Tax Map 052 Parcel 002N and Tax Map 051 Parcel 068, 76.02 +/- total acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural), and a Major PRD (Planned Residential Development) Revision, off Baker Place Road, Tax Map 051 Parcels 048, 049, 049A, and 049C a combined 150.55 +/- acres and currently zoned PRD (Planned Residential Development). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

      4. (I1a4) RZ26-05-02, Rezoning from C-2 (General Commercial) to M-1 (Light Industrial), 3985 Gordon Highway, Tax Map 043A Parcel 043A, 1.53 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-2 (General Commercial). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         This is considered together with I1a5, the next item.

         Schlachter: Currently operating as Harlan Paint & Body. Rezoning allows owner to add towing and vehicle storage. Several improvement were made to property without permits, which triggered the accompanying Variance requests (look under following). Willing to allow gravel storage area because towing lots often contain damaged vehicles that can damage asphalt, however staff recommended customer parking eventually be paved.

         Planning Commission conditions required the parking lot to be completed by the end of the year, but the applicant requested three years to complete the work while getting business established. Commissioners Couch & Carraway supported the longer timeline, and motion amended to allow 3 years.

         Additional conditions:

         • Any future buildings on site require installation of fire hydrant

         • Fence could remain as-is, but if replaced in the future, would have to meet current code

         • Stormwater analysis required because of amount of gravel added to property

         • Health Department requested inspection of septic system because no septic permit was on file.

      5. (I1a5) VA26-05-03, Variances to Sections 90-98 List of lot and structure requirements, 90-133 Parking, and 90-144 Placement of buildings and structures, 3985 Gordon Highway, Tax Map 043A Parcel 043A, 1.53 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-2 (General Commercial).

         • A front setback Variance for a covered awning added too close to Gordon Highway

         • A variance allowing gravel instead of paved parking in portions of lot

         • Permission for existing 10-ft fence to remain, although county code generally only allows 8ft fence with additional 2 ft of barbed wire

      6. (I1a6) RZ26-05-03, Conditional Use for Indoor Recreation, 3001 McCrary Court, Tax Map 072 Parcel 231G, 1.95 +/- acres, and currently zoned M-1 (Light Industrial). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

      7. (I1a7) RZ26-05-04, Rezoning from R-A (Residential Agricultural) & PUD (Planned Unit Development) to PRD (Planned Residential Development), off Baker Place Road, Tax Map 051 Parcel 008H, 54.8 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural) & PUD (Planned Unit Development). - Postponed to June 02, 2026 Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Wants to open a golf simulator and golf instruction business. Zoning district allows that type of use, it required commission approval as a conditional use permit.

      8. (I1a8) RZ26-05-05, Rezoning from R-A (Residential Agricultural) to S-1 (Special), off Anderson Road, Tax Map 050 Parcel 039F, 319.36 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural) Approve: Yay 5, No 0 (with condition that access through the Anderson Farm neighborhood be closed so quarry traffic could not use neighborhood roads.)

         Vulcan Materials quarry expansion

         Dan Lanning: Nearby resident. Company was transparent with neighbors, held meetings, tours and provided blast notifications by text message already. Would reduce truck traffic because overburden material could remain on-site instead of requiring about 40K truck trips on public roads. Described Vulcan as good neighbor and long-term plan would minimize impacts near nearby homes.

         Steve Leaning: Nearby resident. Supports request. Says he was skeptical at first before researching and touring site. Approval would reduce truck traffic, road wear and dust from hauling material off-site.

         Greg Sloyer: Nearby resident. Praised Vulcan’s community outreach, saying company representatives went door-to-door speaking with neighbors. Suggested the county should expect/encourage similar early outreach efforts from companies for future controversial developments.

         Teen speaker (didn’t catch her name): Nearby resident also spoke in support. Wrote a 10-page research paper on granite mining and argued the expansion would help reduce truck traffic, dust and road wear in the area. (Commissioners asked for a copy of the paper.)

Public Comments

• John Ardell: Speed bumps in Forest Creek. (County will conduct traffic study.)

• Susan Warren: Data Centers

Executive Session: None

Adjournment: 6:50 pm

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday 6/2/2026 at 6:00 pm in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center

Chairman Duncan was not present. Present: Connie Melear (D1), Jim Steed (D2), Mike Carraway (D3), Alison Couch (D4)

Call To Order: 6pm

Approval of 4/21/2026 Meeting Minutes: Yay: 4, No 0

Consent Agenda: Yay 4, No 0

1. Community and Emergency Services Committee

   1. (H1a) Master Services Agreement with Rep’d for AI Chatbot Services

   2. (H1b) Purchase of a Boston Grand Piano from Turner’s Keyboards for Jabez Harden Auditorium

   3. (H1c) Reed Creek Donation for Interpretive Signage

   4. (H1d) Animal Services Donation

   5. (H1e) Athletic Fields and Park Usage Agreement with GA Bulls Soccer Club, LLC

   6. (H1f) Tournament Hosting Agreement with GA Bulls Soccer Club

   7. (H1g) Canoe, Kayak and Paddleboard Rentals at Riverside Park Concessionaire Agreement with Outdoor Augusta, LLC.

   8. (H1h) Clark Hill Committee of the CSRA Bass Tournaments Agreement

   9. (H1i) Purchase of Nutrition Services Agreement with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office for the Senior Center

   10. (H1j) Service Agreement with the City of Harlem for the Oliver Hardy Festival

   11. (H1k) Athletic Facilities Use and License Agreement with Martinez Evans Little League (MELL)

   12. (H1l) Donation from Clark Hill Committee for the Fishing Rodeo

   13. (H1m) Columbia County Library System Donation

2. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee

   1. (H2a) Memorandum of Tower Site Land License Agreement and Tower Site Land License Agreement with SBA Structures, LLC. for 580 Stevens Creek Road

   2. (H2b) Award Bid# 2026010-BID5100 and contract to Blair Construction for Sawdust Rd Waterline project

   3. (H2c) Independent Contractor Agreement with Turnipseed Engineers for Crawford Creek Aeration Basin Rehabilitation

   4. (H2d) Change Order Number 2 with Blair Construction, Inc. for Crawford Creek Sewer Phase II

   5. (H2e) Independent Contractor Agreement with Ardurra Group, Inc. for Biosolids Alternatives Evaluation and Recommendations

   6. (H2f) Lighting Services Agreements with Georgia Power to install Safety Lights at the Intersections of Columbia Road & Long Creek Falls, Wrightsboro Road & Euchee Creek Drive, Louisville Road & Nature’s Way and the Blue Ridge Dr. Crosswalk.

   7. (H2g) Revised Lighting Services Agreement with Georgia Power for the Intersection Safety Light at Wrightsboro Rd and Kettle Creek Dr

   8. (H2h) Resolution 26-02 to amend Street Light District (SLD 2024-535B) in Jackson Heights, Phase II

   9. (H2i) Resolution 26-10 Concerning a Determination to Declare as Surplus and Sell Real Property located at 4065 Columbia Rd, Martinez, GA (Parcel ID 079 084)

   10. (H2j) Contract# 2026-3521 with Maner Builders Supply for Perimeter Fence Repair at the Baker Place Rd Landfill

   11. (H2k) Contract# 2026-3495 with Southern Asphalt for Parking Lot Repairs and Overlay at Fire Station #3

   12. (H2l) Contract #2026-3512 with Thompson Building Wrecking Company for Abatement, Demolition, and Removal Services of Properties for the Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project

   13. (H2m) Contract #2026-3531 with Lose Design for Architectural & Engineering Services related to the Columbia County Sports Complex

   14. (H2n) Supplemental Agreement #1 to the Project Framework Agreement with GDOT for the Wrightsboro Rd Widening Project

   15. (H2o) Acceptance of Improvements at Greenpoint Phase 4

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I1a1) VA26-04-01, Variance to Section 90-135 Signs, 212 Bobby Jones Expressway, Tax Map 078D Parcel 024, 0.598 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-2 (General Commercial). Approve Yay: 4, No 0

         Request to allow additional building signage to remain in place. Buffalo Luke's restaurant installed a sign on the side of the building without obtaining the required permit. Total proposed signage — front, side, and one additional sign — totals 102 square feet, which is 0.5 square feet under the 102.5 square feet permitted if all three allowed sign positions are used. Conditions attached to approval: all unpermitted window signs must be permitted or removed within 30 days; sign facing the parking lot (Roseland-facing) must be permitted within 30 days; each tenant limited to two total signs per the subdivision requirements.

      2. (I1a2) VA26-04-02, Variance to Section 90-53 List of lot and structure requirements, 710 Whitetail Trail, Tax Map 017 Parcel 068, 3.09 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural). Approve Yay: 4, No 0

         Request to reduce rear setback from 25 feet to 10 feet for a proposed storage structure. Property accesses via easement rather than a road, which causes what would typically be a side lot line to be classified as a rear lot line, triggering a 25-foot setback instead of the standard 10-foot side setback. Reduction would align the structure with the property's driveway and is consistent with a neighboring structure.

Public Comments:

• Karin Parham

• Susan Warren

Executive Session

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Property A: Approve: Yay 4, No 0. Highlands Townhomes HOA, donating 0.04 acres as a permanent easement for the Ivy Falls sewer line improvement project.

Adjournment: 6:18pm

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 6:00pm in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center.

Chairman Duncan was not present. Present: Connie Melear (D1), Jim Steed (D2), Michael Carraway (D3), Alison Couch (D4), Scott Johnson (County Manager)

Call To Order: 5:30pm

Public Hearing:

1. Budget Summary General Fund

Johnson started, noting the budget is balanced and ready to advertise, with a 1.95% overall increase in the General Fund, down from roughly 3% last year. He credited zero-based budgeting, saying departments build from scratch rather than from the prior year’s numbers.

Key items he walked through:

• 3% cost of living increase for employees

• Increase in medical plan contributions (both county and employee shares go up)

• Vehicles moved to the Fleet Fund for amortization rather than sitting as lump-sum budget items

• $750,000 in Sheriff’s Office technology requests moved to one-time TAVT money rather than recurring budget

• Roads and Bridges fully moved to the Insurance Premium Tax Fund (IPTF) — Johnson described it as a cleaner accounting move, not a funding change

• Gold Cross contract increase, adding one additional ambulance

• General Fund proposed at $105,925,401 with a 2.51% contingency (goal is 2.5%)

Couch asked about the millage rate; Johnson confirmed the budget is balanced with a millage rate reduction in mind. Formal rate-setting happens in July/August.

Melear asked for a FEMA update. Johnson said FEMA reimbursements will not affect the General Fund. County covered costs with project money and will reimburse those accounts as FEMA money comes in. Staff stated $69 million received against $87 million spent, with another $13 million expected soon, putting them at roughly 97% reimbursed with more still coming through September/October.

Couch asked about the $8.4 million returned by EDACC from the White Oak Industrial Park sale. Johnson confirmed it’s been set aside and the intent is to return it to taxpayers via HB 439, which is on the governor’s desk. He described the $8.4 million as “seed money.”

Carraway then made a point of stating explicitly that the commission is unified in its intent to use that money to reduce or eliminate homestead property taxes, and that they have said so publicly. Johnson added they intend to “continue to fight” until homestead property taxes in Columbia County are eliminated. Johnson clarified that if the governor signs HB 439, it still goes to voters in November, meaning any tax relief would happen in 2027, not this fall, directly pushing back on a common public expectation.

Steed offered general praise for the budget process, noting it was his first budget cycle with the county.

• Tax Digest Projection

Johnson projected 5% growth in the digest for 2026, consistent with how the county typically estimates. He said last year’s millage rate reduction was so aggressive that despite digest growth, the county only netted an additional $612,581 in property tax revenue year over year.

He said property tax now represents about 40-42% of General Fund revenue, down from over 65% when he took over as county manager 15 years ago. 40% is roughly the floor he’s comfortable with, given the volatility of other revenue sources.

Melear pressed on that point, noting that sales tax is volatile (she cited the hurricane as an example of a sudden dropoff) and that property tax is the most dependable revenue stream. Johnson agreed 40% is about as low as he’d want to go, and flagged a specific risk: a bill discussed this legislative session would have eliminated the Insurance Premium Tax Fund, which would have forced everything currently funded there back into the General Fund, requiring a tax increase.

Johnson confirmed this will be the 10th millage rate reduction in the last 11 years, with 2020 (COVID) being the only exception.

Couch asked about the homestead portion of the ~$42 million in property tax revenue. Johnson said approximately $25 million of that $42 million comes from homestead properties. He noted that for a county with a $10 billion digest, $42 million total in property tax collections is among the lowest in the state.

Couch added that the board’s long-term intent is to eliminate homestead property tax entirely and replace it with other revenue streams.

• Sales Tax Collections

Johnson said the county conservatively estimates sales tax revenue. He noted that March 2026 showed the first negative year-over-year percentage change in several years (-0.05% on the 12-month average, per the document), describing it as possibly just a stabilization rather than a trend.

He explained how LOST works for the county: 100% of Local Option Sales Tax collections are applied as a credit against the millage rate, showing up on tax bills as a LOST credit that effectively lowers what property owners pay.

• Summary of Proposed Budget

  

  

  Johnson cautioned against reading the 7.32% overall budget increase as representative of county spending broadly. He pointed to the General Fund’s 1.95% as the more meaningful number, since many of the other funds are revenue-driven, they balance to whatever comes in, so they move up and down independently.

  The specific outlier he called out: the 2024 PFA Bond debt service fund shows a 583% increase. He explained this was intentional. When the bonds were structured, the county took an interest-only period while investing the bond proceeds at high returns, deferring the larger payments. The big payment is now due, and he said they were prepared for it.

  Johnson also noted the ARPA funds (both state and federal) dropping 68-100%, which reflects those one-time pandemic funds winding down.

  Carraway reiterated the 1.95% General Fund figure for the record.

• Budget Calendar

  

  Johnson went through the remaining steps: newspaper advertisement of the proposed budget goes to press on May 15; budget adoption is set for the Board of Commissioners meeting on June 2. He noted that any significant changes resulting from public input will be disclosed at adoption. He credited finance staff (Ms. Reece) for managing thousands of pages of budget documents over a five-month process.

There were no public comments

Adjournment: 5:55pm

All Commissioners Present

Call To Order: 6:00 pm

Approval OF 3/17/2026 meeting minutes and 3/17/2026 budget work session minutes: Approve Yay 5, No 0

Special Recognition, presentation and/or declaration: Approve: Yay 5, No 0

1. Declaration

   1. Proclaiming May 1, 2026 as Loyalty Day Vice Chair Couch

   2. Proclaiming April 2026 as Safe Digging Month

Consent Agenda. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

1. Community and Emergency Services Committee

   1. (H1a) Animal Services Donations

   2. (H1b) Lease with Columbia County Cares, Inc.

   3. (H1c) Proclamation Observing May 1, 2026 as Loyalty Day

   4. (H1d) Contract Renewal Number 8 with Columbia County Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc.

   5. (H1e) Independent Contractor Agreement with Patricia Essick for the Senior Center Ceramics Instructor

   6. (H1f) Contract Agreement with Ignite Soccer Academy, LLC.

   7. (H1g) Independent Contractor Agreement with Hain Tennis Academy, LLC

   8. (H1h) Contract Renewal Number 3 with Petersburg Tennis Academy

   9. (H1i) Contract Renewal Number 5 with Professional Disc Golf Association Inc.

   10. (H1j) Contract Renewal Number 1 with Georgia Glamping Company, LLC

   11. (H1k) Contract Renewal Number 3 with Keg Creek Watersports LLC.

   12. (H1l) Contract Renewal Number 4 with Savannah Rapids Kayak Rental for Bicycle Rental Service

   13. (H1m) Canoe, Kayak and Paddle Board Rentals at Savannah Rapids and Wildwood Parks Concessionaire Agreement with Savannah Rapids Kayak Rental, LLC.

   14. (H1n) Georgia Department of Transportation FY 2022 Surplus Vehicle #3568

   15. (H1o) Georgia Department of Transportation FY2026 Transportation Trust Fund Program Application

   16. H1p) Fire Services Automatic Aid Agreement with the City of Harlem, GA

2. Management and Internal Services Committee

   1. (H2a) Juvenile Court Independent Contractor Agreements with Margaret Adams, Angela Chambers, Kathleen Conner, Brendan Fleming, Jordan Hanson, Krista Marie Johnson, Kelly Kitchens, Joseph Pride and Sheila Wahman

   2. (H2b) Contract Renewal/Amendment Number 3 with Correct Health Columbia, LLC. for Inmate Medical Services

   3. (H2c) Contract Renewal Number 2 with Oasis Management Systems, Inc. for Inmate Commissary Services

   4. (H2d) Contract Renewal Number 1 with Guardian Mortuary Transport, Inc. for Coroner Transport Services

   5. (H2e) Contract Renewal Number 1 with The Nelson Law Group for Conflict Counsel for Tax Appeals

   6. (H2f) Memorandum of Agreement with Federal Emergency Management Agency Integrated Public Alert Warning System (IPAWS)

   7. (H2g) Resolution Number 26-09 Authorizing Adoption of the Columbia County, Georgia Multi-Jurisdictional Pre-Disaster Hazard Mitigation Plan

   8. (H2h) Agreement Amendment Number 2 with Debristech, LLC for Disaster Debris Monitoring Services

   9. (H2i) Intent for Funding 45 Percent Cost Share of a New Mobile Operation Center to be used as a Primary Regional Asset

   10. (H2j) Employee On-Site Clinic and Medical Services Professional Agreement with MedNow Urgent Care

   11. (H2k) Agreement with Cushman Paint & Body, Headway Collision Center, Rick’s Paint & Body Towing, LLC, and Crash Champions, LLC, for Auto Collision Repair Services

   12. (H2l) Cisco Network Equipment Lifecycle Purchase from DSI

   13. (H2m) Broadband Utility Forklift Purchase from Hyster-Yale Materials Handling

   14. (H2n) Award RFP # 2026002-RFP3289 and Contract to Duckworth Development, LLC for the Construction of the Savannah Rapids Pavilion Renovation and Addition

   15. (H2o) Independent Contractor Agreement with WSP USA, Inc. for Special Inspection and Material Testing Services for Savannah Rapids Pavilion Renovation and Addition

   16. (H2p) Purchase of Furniture, Fixtures and Equipment from Weinberger’s for the Emergency Operations Center Renovation

3. Development and Planning Services Committee

   1. (H3a) Agreement with Sunset Auction Company for the Columbia County Surplus Items Auction

   2. (H3b) Automatic Forfeit Extension for Gregory M Parker Inc dba Parker’s #149 located at 3900 Washington Road

   3. (H3c) Alcoholic Beverage License Melina 25 LLC dba Habaneros Mexican Grill

   4. (H3d) Alcoholic Beverage License Kyoto Inc dba Kyoto Japanese Cuisine

   5. (H3e) Easement Encroachment Agreement for 1420 Dooley Lane, Tax Map 051 Parcel 319

   6. (H3f) Easement Encroachment Agreement for 4465 Baywood Trail, Tax Map 059 Parcel 967

4. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee

   1. (H4a) Renewal Number 3 with Goodwyn Mills Cawood for the Periodic Maintenance of Hydraulic Model for 2027

   2. (H4b) Emergency repair of the 22H Vertical Turbine Pump

   3. (H4c) Encroachment Agreement with Atlanta Gas Light for the Euchee Creek Harlem Interceptor Project

   4. (H4d) Meter Reading Agreement with Jefferson Electric

   5. (H4e) Proclaiming April 2026 as Safe Digging Month in Columbia County

   6. (H4f) 2026 Amendments of the Columbia County Radar Permit for the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office

   7. (H4g) Contract #2026-3470 with Mid State Construction & Stripeing, Inc for the FY 2025/2026 Safety Striping Project B

   8. (H4h) Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement with GDOT for the Installation of Right Turn Lanes on Wrightsboro Rd (SR 223) and Louisville Rd

   9. (H4i) Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement with GDOT for Right Turn Lane Improvements on Washington Rd (SR104) from River Watch Pkwy to N. Belair Rd

   10. (H4j) Indemnification and Hold Harmless Agreement with GDOT for the Installation of “Welcome to Historic Appling” Gateway Signs on State Route 47 (US 221)

   11. (H4k) Project Framework Agreement with GDOT for PI 0021250 - Washington Rd Widening from William Few Pkwy to Tubman Rd

   12. (H4l) Bid #2026006-BID5200 and Contract #2026-3469 with Cajenn Construction & Rehabilitation Services for the 2026 Storm Water UV Lining Projects

   13. (H4m) Acceptance of Improvements for Flex Space of Evans, LLC

   14. (H4n) Purchase and Installation of Equipment from Willo Products Company to Replace Locks for Existing Dorm at the Columbia County Jail

DEBATE AGENDA

1. Unfinished Business Chairman Duncan

   1. Management and Internal Services Committee Commissioner Couch

      1. (I1a1) Resolution 26-04 to Amend the Jabez S. Hardin Auditorium Fee Schedule and Authorize the General Manager to Negotiate the Facility Use Agreement and Fees - Second Reading Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         When PAC took over Hardin Theater, realized that the fee schedule hadn’t been updated since 2016. Needed to make it break-even but realize that nonprofits and community groups use it. This allows PAC to negotiate lower fees for those organizations.

2. New Business

   1. Management and Internal Services Committee

      1. (I2a1) Independent Contractor Agreement with Kawahna McFadden to serve as MAT Program Clerk for the Columbia Judicial Circuit. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         $5K until 9/30/2026 Contract Renewal

      2. (I2a2) Independent Contractor Agreement with Serenity Behavioral Health Systems to provide MAT Consultation and Clinical Services for the Columbia Judicial Circuit Accountability Courts. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         $10,500 until 9/30/2026 Contract Renewal

      3. (I2a3) Independent Contractor Agreement with Martinez Urgent Care, Inc. to provide MAT Consultation and Clinical Services for the Columbia Judicial Circuit Accountability Courts. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         $10,500 until 9/30/2026 Contract Renewal

   2. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I2b1) RZ26-03-08, Major PUD (Planned Unit Development) Revision, 4102 Shady Oaks Drive, Tax Map 081B Parcel 1081, 0.28 +/- acres, and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Reduce to 5ft for a swimming pool

      2. (I2b2) RZ26-03-09, Rezoning from M-1 (Light Industrial) to C-2 (General Commercial), 475 Lewiston Road, for a 1.0 +/- acre portion of Tax Map 061 Parcel 030L, 32.25 +/- total acres, and currently zoned M-1 (Light Industrial). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Ken Worthington appeared on behalf of neighboring property owner, Brad Semback, who owns 2 parcels South of the property. He said that Parcel used to have direct access from Lewiston Rd, but that access was lost in a prior condemnation tied to road work, leaving the property effectively stranded and vacant. He asked the commission to add a condition to the Rezoning approval requiring a curb cut along the southern boundary of thee rezoned property, arguing that it would help restore access, improve emergency access, and make it easier to redevelop. Right now it’s an “eyesore.”

         Commissioner Melear asked if he had worked this out with the other property owner. Worthington said they had reached out and discussions were ongoing, but he was only asking the county for the curb cut as a first step, not for the county to force a full access agreement.

         Robert Titus spoke for the owner of applicant. He opposed Worthington’s request. He argued that the neighboring owner had already been compensated (about $2 million) when the old access was closed, so trying to get access through this Rezoning would amount double-dipping. He said the lack of access was a self-created hardship and argued the could not legally make a developer solve a 3rd party’s access problem as a condition of Rezoning. He also said there was no real public benefit, since this would mainly serve one private owner, and raised safety concerns about creating a through-access.

         Worthington responded that connectivity between commercial parcels is common, that condemnation is not really a normal voluntary sale, and that there is still a county interest in seeing that vacant Parcel put back into production. Melear said the motion to approve the Rezoning would stand as presented , without any added condition.

      3. (I2b3) RZ26-03-10, Major S-1 (Special) Revision, 830 Louisville Road, Tax Map 052 Parcel 001J, 5.0 +/- acres, and currently zoned S-1 (Special). Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: The business applied for a new sign, which triggered a review. Staff realized the existing sign had been built partly in the right of way. The proposed replacement sign also did not meet code because it would sit inside the required 20-ft sight triangle. Normally you can’t put something like a sign in the sight triangle because it blocks visibility. In this case, there was 35 ft from the property line to Louisville Rd, so although the sign would technically be inside the triangle, it won’t obstruct driver’s view down the road.

Public Comments

• Channing Taylor

• Karin Parham

• Howard Johnson

• Susan Warren

• Marlena Bergeron

Executive Session:

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Property A: $2000 to Brighton Landing HOA. Acceptance of land donation (9.96 acres) for right of way easements for Horizon South Parkway - Chandler Road Connector. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

   2. (M1b) Property B: Amendment to Temporary Easement (Chamberlain Rd - Horizon Connector) Easement size reduced from .05 acres to .02 acres. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

   3. (M1c) Property C: Sale .62 acre back to WellStar for drainage easement. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

   4. (M1d) 4 properties purchased for right of way and easements for the Hereford Farm Rd Windening Project. 99% Complete. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

   5. (M1e) New Park Purchase (South of I20, near Pumpking Center and Green Point) Purchased $40K per acre from Euchee Creek Development Company. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

Adjourn: Yay 5, No 0

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Opinion | Political Analysis

Columbia County, GA – Before last week, I had never been inside one of the courtrooms at 640 Ronald Reagan Drive. It looks like a…. courtroom. Wooden benches, dark wood furniture, boring government floors, incredibly bright white walls with nothing on them. The place was pretty sleepy last Thursday afternoon. A security guard joked that I might have to walk around in my socks after my boots set off the metal detector.

A handful of observers attended anyway: County Manager Scott Johnson, District 3 Commissioner Mike Carraway, and Planning Services Division Director Scott Sterling. Cambrey Wood, the Democrat running for Commission Chair, who publicly called for a moratorium on data centers, was also there, along with a few residents who were opponents of the data center approvals. For a set of data center lawsuits that would be dismissed in under thirty minutes, it was a decent showing.

Gregory P. Guido Jr., the Harlem resident who filed three petitions in Columbia County Superior Court challenging the data center rezonings and a rock quarry approval, read his argument aloud from his seat, while Judge Sheryl B. Jolly listened. The county’s attorney approached the bench and laid out the case for dismissal. Then it was over. All three petitions dismissed on the same grounds: lack of legal standing of the petitioner and wrong method of filing. It was a quick hearing.

I covered these filings a couple weeks ago too. At the time, I flagged that O.C.G.A. § 5-4-3, the statute Guido cited, is explicitly marked repealed in the current Georgia Code, that the quarry petition acknowledged the 30-day filing deadline already passed, and that land-use litigation is usually procedurally unforgiving, even for attorneys. So, the dismissal wasn’t a surprise. It was a predictable outcome of filings with identifiable problems from the start.

Some folks characterized the dismissal as the good ol’ boys club protecting their own. I’m going to push back on that narrative. The filings had identifiable problems from the start and the court treated them accordingly. Whether the Columbia County good ol’ boys network makes deals outside of public meetings, at the 1790 Club or the golf course, is a separate question, and not one that could be answered during this case.

Austin Rhodes said on his radio show that Guido was lucky Judge Jolly didn’t sanction him for filing a frivolous lawsuit. I’m skeptical of that framing. Frivolous has a specific legal meaning: baseless and brought in bad faith. A pro se litigant filing a procedurally defective case using a repealed statute is wrong, but I don’t think it rises to the level of bad faith.

The county’s attorney made an observation during his remarks that stuck with me though. He said that rezoning decisions are among the most politically contentious decisions a commission makes, implying this was a matter for politics, not the courts. The political landscape heading into May and November is no less contentious than it was when I first covered these cases a couple weeks ago.

The May 19th Republican primary for Commission Chair features a race between the current District 4 Commissioner Alison Couch and Grovetown Mayor Gary Jones, who resigned his mayorship to enter the race after having previously endorsed Couch. Some of her supporters have characterized his entry as backstabbing. Jones said publicly that he can’t undo the data center approvals already made, won’t vote for more, and has implied he’d look into anything that looks shady. So far, Gary Jones has not responded to my request for an interview. Some Jones supporters have been circulating what they describe as an informal anti-data center ticket, though how consistently that position is held across all the candidates they’re promoting is not clear from their public materials.

District 4, the commission seat covering Harlem and Appling, the areas closest to the proposed developments, in addition to Grovetown, will not have a primary. Republican Al Reeves, and Democrat Samantha Rockwood will face each other in November. According to their campaign websites, neither candidate has made an explicit public statement on data center development, which is notable given that District 4 is ground zero for resident frustration on the issue.

District 1 has a crowded Republican primary between Alex Griffin, Bobby Timmerman, and James Van Meter, with Democrat Michael Jordan running in November.

The courts have dismissed the cases against the county. The county’s own attorney basically said to take it to the ballot box. This cycle is shaping up to be more competitive than usual in Columbia County, which is a good thing regardless of where you stand. One politician told me recently that they disagreed with contesting every race because of how much it costs to run. Fair point. Campaigns are expensive. If nobody ever runs against the folks crowned at the 1790 Club though, we won’t benefit from considering different ideas and views. Competition brings more people to the voting booth, and elected officials who have to earn their seats are more attentive to the people who put them there.

Not Present: Chairman Duncan, Commissioner Melear

Call To Order: 6:00 pm

Approval of 3/3/2026 Board of Commissioners & 3/10/2026 Elected Officials Budget Work Session Minutes: Yay 3, No 0

Special Recognition, Presentation, Or Declaration

1. Special Recognition

   1. (G1a) Coroner Terry Normal to Recognize the Coroner’s Office Staff: Saved the lives of 755 people

2. Declaration

   1. (G2a) Proclamation Designation April as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in Columbia County (Glen Osteen)

Consent Agenda: Yay 3, No 0

1. Management and Internal Services Committee Commissioner Couch

   1. (H1a) Independent Contractor Agreement with Christopher Caudell to serve as a Staff Attorney for the Columbia Judicial Circuit

   2. (H1b) Juvenile Court Independent Contractor Agreement with Brendan Fleming to Serve as an Independent Prosecutor for Children in Need of Services

   3. (H1c) Agreement Renewal Number 2 with EyeMed Vision Care for Employee Vision Insurance

   4. (H1d) Renewal with New York Life for Basic Life Insurance

   5. (H1e) Proclamation Designating April as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in Columbia County

   6. (H1f) WebEx Telephony Payment Authorization

   7. (H1g) Renew Maintenance and Support with Ciena for Network Equipment and Services

   8. (H1h) Intergovernmental Agreement with the Georgia Department of Public Safety, Georgia State Patrol for Landscape and Janitorial Services

2. Development and Planning Services Committee Commissioner Melear

   1. (H2a) Contract 2026-3467 with Reeves Construction Company for Sheriff’s Driving Track -Milling and Inlay

   2. (H2b) Contract 2026-3466 with Remac, Inc. for the Sheriff’s Driving Track - Crack Seal & Striping

   3. (H2c) Purchase of a Bucket Truck from Hardy Automotive for Traffic Engineering

   4. (H2d) Alcoholic Beverage License Mai Thai Restaurant LLC

   5. (H2e) Alcoholic Beverage License Pancho Villa Mexican Kitchen LLC

   6. (H2f) Automatic Forfeit Extension for Vault 221 LLC

   7. (H2g) Encroachment Agreement, 711 Whitney Shoals Road, Tax map 060 Parcel 2098, Highland Lakes, Section 3

   8. (H2h) Encroachment Agreement, 7208 Hoffman Drive, Tax Map 067 Parcel 1718

   9. (H2i) Conditional License, Encroachment and Maintenance Agreement, 725 North Belair Road, Tax map 072 Parcel 231M

   10. (H2j) Easement Encroachment Agreement, 725 North Belair Road, Tax map 072 Parcel 231M

Debate Agenda

1. Unfinished Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I1a1) RZ25-12-04, Rezoning from C-C (Community Commercial) to R-2 (Single Family Residential), 309 & 311 South Belair Road, Tax Map 073A Parcels 154 & 155, 0.49+/- acres each, and currently zoned C-C (Community Commercial - Postponed from 3/3/2026 Yay 3, No 0

         Schlachter: Zoning to go from CC to R2. Was rezoned in 2024, a long with several other parcels to he north. There was a conditional use for residential use for 12 months. After 12 months, that residential use expired. A request to extend was presented and denied. Come back and asked to go back to their residential use. We’ve received a lot of information from both sides of this, but this time, the motion was to move back to residential to allow the family to continue living there.

         (Below is close to transcribed)

         James Blankenship: I am the homeowner of 309 South Belair Road, and speaking on behalf of me and my neighbor at 311 South Belair Rd. We went under contract with the developer 2 years ago to rezone a full block. This is what what presented at the time (held up a big presentation trifold). H wanted to do 3 businesses to take out the full area of the 3 lots on Valley Rd, and then south of this property, where the Domino’s and Dunkin Donuts is. He since backed out from me and my neighbor to the south… like to do now is to squeeze me and my neighbor between 2 other commercial developments. I kind of made this one showing where my property line is relative to this 2nd development. (hold up presentation board). I am still willing to sell. I still want to move away from this area. I don’t want to be squeezed between 2 developments. And if this Rezoning was approved, you’d have to move this property line by 45-fet over to the south, which would essentially removal all of this. Parking that he has here, and make it to where he’d be encouraged to actually come back in and develop. To be able to get a return on investment for the purchases that he’s already made. So after he backed out, I filed him into rezone back to R2 in late November. Shortly after, I found that the developer wanted to continue conversations with me. He wanted to go back to the negotiation table, so I delayed the planning committee meeting to February, well long negotiations ensued. Essentially, we couldn’t come to an agreement. The concern is that he wants us to keep delaying and kicking the can down the road for 2 more years or for another year and not close until 2027. And, if he does that, we’re afraid he’s going to get his building permit and then build. So, we’re still willing to go forward with negotiations. His most recent email, he said to close out this was an email he sent me on Saturday. He wrote quote, “If you choose to reject this offer, then know that we will not engage in this negotiation, and will move forward with what we have. While your Rezoning request would probably be disapproved if you pursue the Rezoning to R2. Just know that we will no longer retain interest in your property. We will simply work with the properties we have already acquired.” So, I’m put in a difficult situation because I do want to move forward with the sale, but I also need to protect my mental well-being and not have a road with a car being able to drive 20-25 ft from my bedroom window. I am requesting the board of commissioners to show me grace and help protect me from a developer coming in and treating me, a resident of this county, like this. By approving this Rezoning application, the board of commissioners will finally give back some peace of mind that I never have to worry about a diesel truck revving their engine 20 ft from my bedroom window at ten o’clock at night. You have my word that we’ll continue to try to sell so that the eventual properties be developed, which I know the county wants, and that’s what we want as well..

         Steed: Mr. Blankenship, I was really hoping y’all could come to an agreement on this because it’s been a long time coming.

         Blankenship: Yeah, I was too.

         Steed: And I noticed in the looking back, they had a condition when that 12-month period was given. That after that 12-month period was given. That after that 12 month period, then it will return back to our R2 so that’s our feeling. That’s my feeling as a board. That’s why I made a motion that it should revert back as we had stated in their previous meetings

         Blankenship: Thank you. Thank you very much. I appreciate that.

         Sajilakani: I am the project manager of this proposed development. I am just speechless. I have communicated as much as I could have explained why we, wanted to keep the zoning at CC. Because, to me, clearly, there’s a path forward that doesn’t impact anyone. And in this situation, if you go ahead and revert it back to R2, it impacts us when we’re trying do a commercial development. And we’ve invested there that increases our buffers and our setbacks. However, if you let this stay CC, we are still going to have greater buffer than they already have. The latest iteration that I had presented to you, Commissioner Steed, showed that the building would be more than 40 feet away from where that house is, and they have really no buffer. We would put up fence and landscape buffer and a greater distance. And the commissioners have been cooperative and said they would not enforce the code violation in the interim while we are continuing to negotiatte, which we have been. It’s just very slow getting there. But if you all just keep it CC, you serve the interests of the county, you allow us as investors to do what we need to do, and you also allow these folks to live there. It doesn’t impact them negatively. They’ll have a greater buffer than they do right now, and they themselves have acknowledged that they anticipate that it’ll go commerical they’ll leave. So this flip flopping of the zoning, I think it sets a bad precedent. It’s not a good message to the investors in our county, and it impacts us negatively from day one for a short term stay where that property is probably going to be revertd to CC again.

         Steed: The problem is that we can’t keep kicking it down the road. We can’t keep letting them stay there and overlooking, you know the fact that they’re not supposed to be there in CC living in that residence. But it seems like it keeps going and keeps going. And as as I mean, it was hard on me trying to deal with all this. I know it’s got to be hard on them. And if it keeps going and keeps going, we’ve got to put an end to it sometime and, maybe later on down the road, if they can come and we can get the desire that we want on that stretch of road, but as for right now, it just seems likely that we just need to go back as it said in the condition that we had in the previous judgement.

         Sajilakani: But Planning Department has told me that there is ample precedent for property that has stayed. Certain zoning, but there was a zoning violation. But they knew that it was being worked on, so they overlooked it. And I have been told it was for years that way. And there’s ample precedent. Will Buckle himself told me. I don’t know why this particular property is being highlighted for this degree of attention. I mean, we’re all trying to work together and to make this work out. But this decision will negatively impact our development and the investment that we’ve made. And, why would we then want to turn around and buy property that’s now zoned residential? It’s another entire unknown for an unknown period of time.

         Carraway: It appears that you’ve lost the confidence of the sellers, and it’s not fair to hold them hostage. That's a position I am taking.

         Sajilakani: But Sir, I don’t feel that we’re holding them hostage. That’s up to you to decide. That what I respectfully request.

2. New Business

   1. Management and Internal Services Committee

      1. (I2a1) Independent Contractor Agreement with Kawahna McFadden to serve as Clinical Case Manager for the Columbia Judicial Circuit Yay 3, No 0

      2. (I2a2) Appointment of Donald Skinner Jr. to Serve on the Hospital Authority. Yay 3, No 0

      3. (I2a3) Commercial Lease Agreement Between Columbia County and Plaza at Evans LLC for .75 acres of property. Parcel 072 550C. Yay 3, No 0

         Johnson: Area between Meybohm and PAC. Use it for events at no charge to the county.

      4. (I2a4) Resolution 26-04 to Amend the Jabez S. Hardin Auditorium Fe chedule and Authorize the General Manager or Negotiate the Facility Ue Agrement and Fees - First Reading Yay 3, No 0

         Realigned under PAC. This changes the fee structure so it can break even. Hasn’t been updated since 2016. Agreement allows Josh Small to negotiate so that it’s still affordable for community groups to make the space accessible.

      5. (I2a5) Revised rental contract for Hardin Auditorium Yay 3, No 0

         On the same note, an updated rental contracts with optional staffing.

      6. (I2a6) C3BU Pruchase of server equipment from mainline Yay 3, No 0

         Kennedy: $249K This is to replace existing equipment. Didn’t have time to take to committee because the price is going up next month by 30% or more.

   2. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I2b1) RZ26-03-01, Rezoning from R-A (Residential Agricultural) to R-1 (Single Family Residential), 1422 Old Appling Harlem Highway, Tax map 030 Parcel 007, 4.03+/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural). Yay: 2, Abstain: 1 (Carraway)

         Schlachter: Subdivide the property. Structures won’t meet setbacks. So to meet for the existing structures. New driveways will have access to Old Harlem only.

      2. (I2b2) VA26-03-01, Variance to Section 90-53 List of lot & structure requirements, 1422 Old Appling Harlem Highway, Tax map 030 Parcel 007, 4.03 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural). Yay 2, Abstain: 1 (Carraway)

         Reduce Setback

      3. (I2b3) RZ26-03-02, Rezoning from R-1 (Single Family Residential) to C-2 (General Commercial), 4933, 4935, & 4937 Washington Road and off Hardy McManus Road, Tax map 066 Parcels 028, 029, 030A, & 031, 3.41 +/- acres combined, and currently zoned R-1 (Single Family Residential). Withdraw Without Prejudice: Yay 3, No 0

      4. (I2b4) RZ26-03-03, Conditional Use for Massage, 218 Oak Street North, Tax map 078D Parcel 128, 1.07 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-2 (General Commercial). Yay 3, No 0

         Expand to add 1 more therapist.

      5. (I2b5) RZ26-03-04, Rezoning from R-A (Residential Agricultural) & M-1 (Light Industrial) to D-C (Data Center), off Morris Calloway Road, Tax map 019 Parcel 002C, 37.03 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural) & M-1 (Light Industrial). Yay 3, No 0

         Cheney Eldridge: There was a mistake on this Parcel. This is not an additional parcel. It was part of the original package

      6. (I2b6) RZ26-03-05, Rezoning from R-3 (Single Family Residential) to C-3 (Heavy Commercial), 249 Settlement Road, Tax map 078C Parcel 518, 0.96 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-3 (Single Family Residential). Yay 3, No 0

         Move electrician office. Variance to reduce buffer.

      7. (I2b7) VA26-03-02, Variance to Sections 90-98 List of lot & structure requirements & 90-139 Buffers & screening, 249 Settlement Road, Tax map 078C Parcel 518, 0.96 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-3 (Single Family Residential). Yay 3, No 0

      8. (I2b8) RZ26-03-06, Rezoning from R-2 (Single Family Residential) to C-2 (General Commercial), 8101, 8102 & 8104 Sir Galahad Drive, Tax map 072A Parcels 122, 164, & 163, 3.77 +/- acres combined, and currently zoned R-2 (Single Family Residential). Withdraw Without Prejudice: Yay 3, No 0

         Johnson: This has to deal with the entrance into Camelot subdivision. Staff doesn’t feel using the entrance for the subdivision for a business entry would be good for the subdivision. They are working with GDOT to add a light at Faircloth Drive & Washington which would benefit the traffic there because it’s difficult to turn left onto Washington.

      9. (I2b9) RZ26-03-07, Major PUD Revision, 833 Audubon Way, Tax map 081 Parcel 681, 0.36 +/- acres, and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development) and easement encroachment agreement. Approve Yay 3, No 0

         Schlachter: Putting in a pool and will need a retaining wall over 6 feet.

      10. (I2b10) Georgia Power Underground Easement for Distribution Line Relocation at 630 Ronald Reagan Drive, Parcel 072 045B Approve Yay 3, No 0

Executive Session

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Property A: Properties for Hereford Farm Widening Project. 97% Complete. Approve Yay 3, No 0

   2. (M1b) Property B: Condemnations for Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. Negotiations went well with homeowners but the bank wouldn’t agree without condemnation. Approve Yay 3, No 0

   3. (M1c) Property C: Settelement - Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. Approve Yay 3, No 0

Adjourn: 6:42 pm

This meeting started after Committee Meetings (around 9:45 am), functioned as a working session reviewing department needs and operational updates ahead of the FY 26/27 budget process. No votes were taken. None of the discussion is transcribed.

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Sheriff’s Office

Crime Trends

Sheriff Whittle reported continued decreases in the county crime rate.

Crime rate changes reported:

• 2023: 2.5% decrease

• 2024: 8.1% decrease

• 2025: 13.1% decrease

Also, about 600 fewer warrants were issued in 2025.

Whittle: decreases largely due to technology investments made by the county, including the downtown crime center and expanded camera systems.

Judicial Philosophy

• difference in judicial philosophy between Columbia County and some other jurisdictions.

• local approach focuses on prosecuting offenders and imposing prison sentences

• District attorney and judges actively working together with law enforcement.

• Individuals committing crimes in the county without local ties (Sheriff mentioned gang members from South Carolina) banned from returning to Columbia County after conviction.

  • Discouraged some offenders from returning to the county - Deterrent effect

Technology and Capital Equipment

Technology infrastructure needs discussed, end-of-life equipment

Items referenced included:

• servers

• switches

• Cisco system upgrades

Approximately $800,000 in capital equipment as part of the lifecycle replacement process.

Scott Johnson - funding certain items through capital funds rather than through the Sheriff’s operating budget.

Jail Operations

The Sheriff reported that a new jail pod is expected to open around late April.

Staffing needs discussed included:

• 4 employees to staff the new pod.

• Additional courthouse deputies discussed due to increasing caseloads (civil).

  • Hiring two additional deputies could replace most of the overtime currently required for courthouse security.

Jail Renovation

Renovation of an older jail pod was discussed.

Items mentioned included:

• lock replacement

• plumbing fixtures

• security upgrades

Estimated renovation cost mentioned: approximately $885,000. Work likely to occur after the new pod becomes operational.

Court System

Caseload

• Judges reported increases in civil and domestic case filings.

• Civil and domestic filings doubled since 2020.

• state judicial workload assessment process, which determines when circuits qualify for additional judges.

• Based on current trends, an additional judgeship could be needed within 2-5 years.

Virtual Court Appearances

• Judges and Sheriff discussed continued use of video appearances for defendants located in the jail.

• Technology reduced need for prisoner transport and lowered operational costs.

Juvenile Court

Juvenile Court officials reported:

• 105 court days held last year

• 743 hearings conducted.

DFCS bringing fewer cases to court - not due to fewer family issues, but possibly lower funding for DFCS at State level.

Juvenile Transport Issue

• Department of Juvenile Justice previously allowed remote hearings during COVID but no longer does so.

• Juveniles must be transported for court appearances.

• State legislators may need to address the issue.

Coroner’s Office

Fee Schedule

The Coroner discussed fees paid to staff responding to calls. Fees have remained unchanged since 2009. Proposed changes discussed:

• Call Fee: Now $200, Proposed $250

• Out of Town Transport: Now $200, Proposed $250

• Local Transport: Now $65, Proposed $100

Estimated impact discussed: approximately $26,000.

Staffing

Converting a high-volume contract position to a full-time role to reduce workload and provide retirement benefits.

Organ Donation

The Coroner reported that Columbia County ranked:

• #2 in the state for organ donation referrals

• #7 in actual donations

755 lives were saved through donations associated with the county.

Emergency Communications

Enhanced 911

Capabilities of the county’s enhanced 911 system.

• text-to-911 (with locating ability)

• submission of photos and video by callers.

Officials stated that many residents are unaware the service exists.

County Radio System

Officials discussed the countywide 800 MHz radio system used by public safety agencies and other departments.

• Approximately 1,400 users are connected to the system daily.

• Current fee: $50 per radio per year

• Possible increase to $100 per radio per year was mentioned to help offset equipment replacement costs.

IT Infrastructure

Lifecycle replacement of network infrastructure used by multiple departments. Items mentioned included:

• switches

• camera network equipment

Emphasized the need to replace equipment before it reaches end-of-life to avoid larger system failures.

Audit Committee

Call To Order: 8:30 am

Approval of 12/9/2025 Meeting Minutes: Yay 5, No 0

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

2. Management Services

   1. Draft Reports

      1. (G1a1a) Technology Services Division

      Scope & Methods:

      • Tested incident reports for timeliness and documentation - no exceptions.

      • Inspected broadband tower security - no findings

      • Reviewed data backup policy, process - good results

      • Reviewed GIS Parcel change process - good results

      • Tested broadband 3rd-party revenue - no exceptions

      • Reviewed purchase requisitions, purchase cards, and timesheets- no findings

      • Performed Inventory spot-chcks using sheet-floor and floor-sheet methods.

      Inventory Observations:

      • IT assets: one phone auditor area not on inventory list

      • Broadband: inaccuracies between bench stock inventory and records

      • Management response to strengthen broadband inventory controls provided

      Change Management procedures - adequate

      5-year strategic plan - no recommendations

      Clarifications:

      • Inventory focus for boradband bench stock (not installed)

      • Emphasis on tracking bench stock

      Conclusion: Strong controls overall. Targeted improvements needed for inventory accuracy.

      1. (G1a1b) Parks, Recreation & Events Department

         Systems Note:

         • MUNIS and Rec1 interface requires batch-level tracing; total revenues match at aggregate level.

         • No changes recommended - disclosure explains batch testing approach

         Process Testing Results

         • Gym memberships: fee collection and termination controls tested - no exceptions

         • Facility Rentals (pavilions, ball fields): payments traced; no exceptions

         • Wildwood Park (camping/day use): multiple transaction types, reviewed; no exceptions

         • Youth/adult sports registrations, including processing fees; no exceptions

         • National Alliance for Youth Sports (coach vetting): selections tested - no findings

         • Purchase cards, requisitions and time sheets - no findings

         Parks & Rec controls operating effectively - no issues

   2. Internal Audit Update

      1. (G1a2a) March Internal Audit Update (3-year rotation)

         Departments identified: Recyling, Procurement, Licensing and Permitting, Library

         Clerk of Courts Reconciliation Follow-Up:

         Background:

         • Initially identified large volume of uncleared deposits in transit, largely tied to a software update on a specific date.

         • Clerk’s office worked with IT to reconcile and clear transactions.

         Current Status:

         • Majority reconciled, over 90% of items correctly cleared.

         • About 10 older transactions (total about $66K from 2019-2020 lacked enough historic detail for precise matching).

         • Subsequent bank reconciliations prepared correctly with erroneous items removed; cash balance corrected

         Risk and Fraud Assessment:

         • Scott Johnson and auditor state no indication of fraud or theft; issues stem from compounded bookkeeping errors over time.

         • Emphasis on timely, accurate bank reconcilations and prompt resolution of errors.

         Discussion:

         • Connie Melear had concern about lingering misstatements; prefer to have a clean way to carry-forward

         • Practical limitations due to aged records (PDF vs Excel) prevent tracing each of the small items.

         Conclusion: Reconciliation corrected and current records clean. Recommendation reinforced for ongoing timely reconciliations to prevent recurrence.

   Adjourn 9:01 am

   Management and Internal Service Committee

Call To Order 9:06 am

Approval of 2/10/2026 Meeting Minutes: Yay 3

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

   1. County Manager

      1. (I1a1) Independent Contractor Agreement with Christopher Caudell to serve as a Staf Attorney for the Columbia County Judicial Circuit. Move to Consent

         1099 Role, $4000 per month (no benefits)

      2. (I1a2) Juvenile Court Independent Contractor Agreement with Brendan Fleming to Serve as an Independnt Prosecutor for Children in Need of Services Move to Consent

         $1333.33 per month. 3/26- end of fiscal year (6/30)

   2. Deputy County Manager

      1. (I1b1) Agreement Renewal Number 2 with EyeMed Vision Care for Employee Vision Insurance Move to Consent

         Current vision exp 12/31/2026. Renewal through 12/31/2029 with no rate increase. Employee paid - No county impact.

      2. (I1b2) Renewal with New York Life for Basic Life Insurance Move to Consent

         County provides employees with $25K life insurance. Annual county cost $46, 381. Renewal through 12/31/2029 with no rate increase.

   3. Financial Services

      1. (I1c1) Resolution 26-04 to Amend the Jabez S. Hardin Auditorium Fee Schedule and Authorize the General Manager to Negotiate the Facility Use Agreement and Fees. Move to Debate

         Karin Parham (public comment): Concern that the fee schedule could price out community groups

         Operations moved from library to PAC, prompting fee review. New structure aims to cover expenses without profit. Hardin not supported by general fund (property taxes). Staff can negotiate pricing to help community entities meet budgets. Classrooms previously included in theater Rental are not free for community use and managed by library.

      2. (I1c2) Revised Rental Contract for Hardin Auditorium Move to Debate

      3. (I1c3) Proclamation Designating April as Autism Awareness and Acceptance Month in Columbia County. Approved and will be read next Tuesday

   4. Technology Services

      1. (I1d1) WebEx Telephony Payment Authorization Move to Consent

         $140,410.20 payment. Switch to Webex continues to save county about $307K annually.

      2. (I1d2) Renew Maintenance and Support with Ciena for Network Equipment and Services Move to Consent

         Renewal of maintenance support agreement. $100, 888.81 from broadband operating funds.

2. Added at Meeting:

   1. Intergovernmental Agreement with the Georgia Department of Public Safety

      County will provide landscape and janitoriaal services for a Georgia State Patrol Post. County previously owned building and provided services. State Patrol remits over $800K in fines to county annually, covering service costs.

Staff Reports

1. Financial Services

   1. (K1a) Year to Date Budget Report: As of 2/28, all funds operating as expected, around 67% for fiscal year

   2. (K1b) SPLOST Update: Over $2.9 million received in January. 1.44% lower then past years, likely due to inflated numbers from last year’s Hurricane Helene cleanup.

   3. (K1c) Investment Report

Adjournment: 9:25 am

Development and Planning Services Committee

Call To Order: 9:26 am

Approval of 2/10/2026 Meeting Minutes: Yay 3, No 0

Debate Agenda:

1. Deputy County Manager (Schlachter)

   1. (I1a1) Contract 2026-3467 with Reeves Construction Company for Sheriff’s Driving Track - Milling and Inlay Move to Consent

      $48,135. Track age about 7 years

   2. (I1a2) Contract 2026-3466 with Remac, Inc for the Sheriff’s Driving Track - Crack Seal & Striping Move to Consent

      $76,605

   3. (I1a3) Purchase of a Bucket Truck from Hardy Automotive for Traffic Engineering Move to Consent

      $212K.

2. Development Services

   1. (I1b1) Alcoholic Beverage License Mai Thai Restaurant LLC Move to Consent

   2. (I1b2) Alcoholic Beveral License Pancho Villa Mexican Kitchen LLC Move to Consent

   3. (I1b3) Automatic Forfeit Extentsion for Vault 221 LLC Move to Consent

      Currently renovating, extension to 6/15. No prior extensions.

3. Planning Services (Sterling)

   1. (I1c1) Encroachment Agreement, 711 Whitney Shoals Road, Tax map 060 Parcel 2098, Highland Lakes, Section 3 Move to Consent

      10 ft rear drainage and utitilies easement. Pool does not encroach. Deck encroach 4 ft. Owner responsible for impacts.

   2. (I1c2) Encroachment Agreement, 7208 Hoffman Drive, Tax Map 067 Parcel 1718 Move to Consent

      5 ft side yard drainage & utilities easement. Pool deck encroaches 2.5 feet, walkway and driveway encroach 4 ft. Pool does no encroach. Agreement include owner responsibility.

   3. (I1c3) Conditional License, Encorachment and Maintenance Agreement, 725 North Belair Road, Tax Map 072 Parcel 231M Move to Consent

      Street trees in right of way to meet landscape requirements due to utilities. County allowed to dig if needed.

   4. (I1c4) Easement Encroachment Agreement, 725 North Belair Road, Tax Map 072 Parcel 231M Move to Consent

      Curb and gutter within county easement at rear of property near storm line.

Staff Reports

1. Planning Services (Sterling)

   1. (K1a) February 2026 Planning Department Work Load measurement monthly report

   2. (K1b) January 2026 Plan Review Work Load measurement monthly report

2. Development Services (Schlachter)

   1. (K2a) Development Services Division Monthly Report

   2. (K2b) Development Services Division Financial Report

   3. (K2c) Temporary Event Alcohol Permits

Adjourn 9:35 am

A resident’s lawsuit challenging approvals for the White Oak Technology Park and Pumpkin Center data center campus lands in court as frustration over growth spills into the upcoming Columbia County Commission elections

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Opinion | Political Analysis

Key Points

• A Harlem resident has filed lawsuits challenging Columbia County data center rezonings.

• The petition questions approvals tied to White Oak Technology Park and Pumpkin Center Data Center Park

• Legal challenges face procedural hurdles, including filed deadlines and repealed statutes.

• The controversy is spilling into the 2026 Columbia County Commission elections.

• Multiple seats will have contested primaries and Democratic challengers.

Columbia County’s rapid embrace of large-scale industrial development, particularly data centers, is no longer confined to loud public comment periods at late-night commission meetings. Now it’s in the courts.

Harlem resident Gregory P. Guido Jr. filed multiple petitions in Columbia County Superior Court seeking judicial review of recent Board of Commissioners decisions, including approvals related to the White Oak Technology Park, the Pumpkin Center data center campus, and a proposed rock quarry.

Guido is representing himself, which is a risky and bold choice. Courts operate on procedure, deadlines, and narrow standards of review. Even small mistakes in how a case is filed can determine whether a court ever reaches the underlying claims. Most people pursuing complex land-use litigation retain professional counsel. Attorneys are expensive, though, and when folks feel they have exhausted every other avenue, they sometimes turn to the courts as the last available forum, even if that means self-representation.

It would be silly to argue that data centers themselves are unlawful. Instead, Guido is challenging how they were approved in Columbia County.

In the Pumpkin Center petition, Guido alleges that the rezoning application was notarized before the County formally adopted the D-C zoning classification for data centers. He argues that the Development of Regional Impact review was incomplete, that environmental and stormwater impacts were not fully evaluated, that baseline noise testing was not conducted for nearby neighborhoods, and that the required notice to the Columbia County School District may not have been properly documented. He also contends that the Board approved the rezoning without adopting protective conditions proposed by residents and without requiring financial safeguards should a developer abandon the project.

In subsequent amendments, Guido clarified that his petitions are brought under O.C.G.A. § 5-4-3, a statute historically used for certiorari review of local zoning decisions. However, Georgia repealed the certiorari statutes in Title 5, Chapter 4 in 2023. O.C.G.A. § 5-4-3 is explicitly marked repealed in the current code. The quarry petition faces an additional hurdle: Guido acknowledges in his own amendment that the 30-day filing period for zoning appeals already passed. Courts tend to take deadlines seriously.

In the Pumpkin Center filing, Guido also submitted a motion requesting that Superior Court Judge Barry Fleming recuse himself from the case. The motion asserts that Judge Fleming’s personal and political relationship with the Prather family, established while Fleming served as a County Commissioner, creates the appearance of impropriety. A motion to recuse is an interesting chess move when the underlying petition may not survive its first procedural challenge. Judicial review of zoning decisions is narrow, and courts generally defer to local governing bodies unless a decision is clearly arbitrary, capricious, or procedurally defective. That’s a higher bar than many people realize. Still, lawsuits do not emerge in a vacuum.

For months, residents in Appling and Harlem have turned out to meetings over data center development. They raised concerns about water usage, generator noise, infrastructure strain, environmental review, and property values. Earlier phases of the White Oak project involved nondisclosure agreements and closed-door meetings that, while legal, left many residents feeling decisions were shaped long before the broader public understood the scope of the project. By the time the projects became widely known, the rezoning process was moving quickly, and many felt it was a “done deal.”

Subsequent rezonings and planning updates to the new Foundations for the Future planning document attempted to establish clearer guardrails for data center development. Whether those guardrails are sufficient depends on who you ask. Skepticism remains high among many Columbia County residents, especially those living in Harlem and Appling, who will live the closest to the developments.

The data centers were not the only controversial development approved. When the rock quarry was approved, the frustration was loud as it moved into the hallway. As commissioners voted and residents walked out, several shouted, “See you at the polls.” A few folks were less restrained and actually yelled profanity. It was raw and emotional. The message was unmistakable, though. If residents felt unheard at 630 Ronald Reagan Drive, they would respond at the ballot box. Judging by the volume and vocabulary, they are not planning to do it quietly.

The frustration in that hallway has been building for a while, though. These commissioners have operated in an environment where the outcome of most races was settled before anyone voted. In many cycles, there was no primary challenger, no general election opponent, and no real accountability at the ballot box. That kind of stability has a way of making elected officials feel like they don’t have to answer to anyone.

Remarks on February 16 put that tension on full display.

During public remarks, Joanne Murdoch, a frequent and vocal critic of data center development, noted that three Democrats had filed declarations of intent to run for District 1, District 4, and Commission Chair. She scolded the commission, arguing that those filings stemmed from dissatisfaction with the Board’s decisions. Yet she finished her remarks by urging fellow conservatives not to sit out the upcoming elections. It was a strange moment. In effect, she was saying: be frustrated, be loud, but still vote for the same people. She was so close to getting it. So close.

I have to ask: what specific local policy positions do Democrats in Columbia County supposedly hold that are so objectionable? What exactly do people think is going to happen? A campaign focused on protecting green space, building bike paths, maybe a park and ride instead of just more lanes, and sustainable growth? Oh no, the absolute horror of such a thing.

The Board is not monolithic, though. District 4 Commissioner Alison Couch, who represents Harlem, Appling, and parts of Grovetown, voted against both the Pumpkin Center data center rezoning and the rock quarry. District 2 Commissioner Jim Steed, elected in a recent special election, also voted against the quarry. In other words, dissenting votes have been recorded, but minority votes do not control outcomes. Majorities do. Some residents believe dissenting commissioners were given political cover to oppose projects that leadership already knew would pass.

On the final day of qualifying, just before the deadline, Grovetown Mayor Gary Jones entered the race for Commission Chair, setting up a Republican primary against Couch, whom he had previously endorsed. Jones has served as Grovetown’s mayor for years and is well known in the county. His entry was welcomed by some District 4 residents who grew frustrated with Couch but couldn’t see themselves voting for a Democrat. The primary is already turning contentious.

Murdoch’s dilemma is not hypothetical. Some District 4 residents were already saying before Jones entered the race that they couldn’t bring themselves to vote for Couch again, even if it meant crossing over. Jones’s entry gives them another option. Whether that option satisfies them, or whether the frustration runs deeper than any Republican primary can resolve, is an open question. The coalition that has kept Columbia County’s commission uniformly Republican is not as unified as it used to be.

Countywide primary turnout in non-presidential cycles has often hovered around 20 percent. In 2024, even though it was a presidential year, turnout in the May primary fell to just below 11 percent. This year is shaping up differently.

For the first time in many years, every Columbia County Commission seat on the ballot will have a Democratic challenger in November. Two of those seats will also feature competitive Republican primaries in May. Contested races are important because they expand the electorate beyond a narrow primary base.

Guido also qualified to run for the District 4 commission seat as an independent candidate. Independent candidates in Georgia must collect a required number of petition signatures to appear on the general election ballot. If his name actually appears on the ballot, the legal and political challenges will unfold at the same time.

The courts will decide whether the County followed the law in approving these rezonings. Voters will decide whether they approve of the commissioners who voted for them. The folks who shouted “see you at the polls” will soon get their chance.

Approval of the 2/17/2026 meeting minutes. Yay 5, No 0

Special Recognition, Presentation and/or Declaration

1. Declaration

   1. (G1a) March 2026 Theatre in Our Schools Month Proclamation

Consent Agenda: Yay 5, No 0

1. Community and Emergency Services

   1. (H1a) Canceling the April 07, 2026 Board of Commissioners Meeting

   2. (H1b) March 2026 Theatre in Our Schools Month Proclamation

2. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee

   1. (H2a) Jefferson Energy Cooperative Right of Way Easement for Parcel 021 051 County Line Road

   2. (H2b) Award Bid and Contract to Gerald Jones Ford, LLC for County Fleet Vehicle Provider

   3. (H2c) Independent Contractor Agreement with Ardurra Group, Inc. for the 2026 Biosolids Report

   4. (H2d) Proposal to switch Utility Locate software from Digsmart to Boss811

   5. (H2e) Change Order Number 2 with Gearig Civil Works, LLC. for the Euchee Creek Sewer Forcemain

   6. (H2f) 2026 Local Maintenance Improvement Grant (LMIG) Reimbursement Application and Acceptance for Damaged Traffic Signal Equipment

   7. (H2g) Traffic Camera Power Service Extension by GA Power at the Riverwood Roundabout

   8. (H2h) Renewal for Glance AI Data Module 5-Year Software, Support, and Warranty

   9. (H2i) Acceptance of Improvements at Tillery Park South (2nd Iteration)

   10. (H2j) Reclass of Right-of-Way Specialist II Contract Position

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I1a1) RZ25-12-04, Rezoning from C-C (Community Commercial) to R-2 (Single Family Residential), 309 & 311 South Belair Road, Tax Map 073A Parcels 154 & 155, 0.49 +/- acres each, and currently zoned C-C (Community Commercial). Postpone to 3/17/2026. Yay 5, No 0

         James Blankenship (owner of 309): Just reached agreement on price with developer. Needs to work out more details and wish to postpone until that is worked out.

         Sadge McConney: In concurrence with postponement.

      2. (I1a2) RZ26-02-01, Rezoning from R-2 (Single Family Residential) to C-C (Community Commercial), 4026 Evans to Locks Road and off Mims Road, Tax Map 078 Parcels 078 & 079, 2.63 +/- acres combined, and currently zoned R-2 (Single Family Residential). Disapprove: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Quite a bit of feed back and all negative.

         Melear: She wanted to make sure the board knew that since it wasn’t a deferment, it would be 6 months before they could come back and request rezoning.

PUBLIC COMMENTS

• Cambrey Woods: Requested commission consider moratorium on construction of data centers.

EXECUTIVE SESSION

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Property A: Donation of 13 acres of easement. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

   2. (M1b) Property B: Approve settlement agreement. Friendly condemnation for HOA. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

   3. (M1c) Property C: 2 properties for the Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. 96% complete. Only 5 more properties to go. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

ADJOURNMENT 6:15 pm

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 6:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center

Approval of 2/3/2026 Meeting Minutes: Yay 5, No 0

Statement from Commission regarding Trader Joes

Consent Agenda: Yay 5, No

1. Management and Internal Services Committee Commissioner Couch

   1. (H1a) Amendment Number One to the Event Staffing Specialist, LLC. Contract

   2. (H1b) Information Technology Equipment Lifecycle Replacement with Dell Computer

   3. (H1c) Independent Contractor Agreement with Summit Solutionz NV, Inc. and Setting the Budget for the Video Wall and Technology Lifecycle Project for EMA

2. Development and Planning Services Committee Commissioner Melear

   1. (H2a) Granting City of Harlem a Permanent Access Easement to Campbell’s Way Parcel 031 094

   2. (H2b) Initiation of Text Amendments to Chapter 90 Zoning Article III Commercial, Industrial, Professional, Special, Planned Unit Development and Planned Development Districts, Section 90-97 Allowed Uses Article IV Supplemental Requirements, Section 90-135 Signs and 90-147 Use Provisions of Columbia County Code

Debate Agenda

1. Unfinished Business

   1. Community and Emergency Services

      1. (I1a1) Ordinance Number 26-01 Amendment to the Code of Ordinance of Columbia County Chapter 14 Animals Section 14-1, 14-4, 14-5 and 14-14 -

         Second Reading Yay 5, No 0

         Bringing the current code into alignment with GA law regarding dangerous animals. Appeals currently heard by Columbia County Animal Services Advisory Board. This transfers the appeal authority to the Columbia County Probate Court.

2. New Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I2a1) Resolution 26-06 Adoption of Foundations for the Future Comprehensive Plan Yay 5, No 0

         Public Comments in opposition (majority of comments were in opposition to the inclusion of the industrial sectors due to data center development):

         • Rachel Dixon

         • Ronald Gilchrist

         • Cambrey Wood

         • Lee Muns

         • Dan Laning

         • Joanne Modock

      2. (I2a2) Automatic Forfeit Extension for MCM 100 LLC DBA Harlem Wine & Spirits Yay 5, No 0

         Requested a 60-day extension of alcohol license. The GA license is still pending. This is the first extension. The building isn’t complete yet. Commissioner Melear stated that she would not be inclined to grant another extension after this one.

Public Comments:

• Katherine Miner

• Howard Johnson

• Karin Parham

• Susan Warren

Executive Session:

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Property A: Moving expenses for a family relocated for the Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. Yay 5, No 0

Adjournment: Yay 5, No 0

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday 3/3/2026 at 6:00pm in the Autditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center

Approval of 12/16/2025 Meeting Minutes: Yes 5, No 0

Election of Vice Chairman: Alison Couch. Yes 5, No 0

Consent Agenda: None

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

   1. Management and Internal Services Committee

      1. (J1a1) Resolution Number 26-01 Fixing the Qualifying Fees for Each County Office to be Filled in General Primary NonPartisan Election or General Election to be Held in 2026. Approval: Yes 5, No 0

   2. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (J1b1) VA25-12-01, Variance to Section 90-135 Signs , 4050 Jimmie Dyess Parkway, Tax Map 074A Parcel 019A, 0.51 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-2 (General Commercial) Approve: Yes 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Narrow Parcel. Change to 1 ft & 3 ft setbacks.

      2. (J1b2) VA25-12-02, Variance to Section 90-53 List of lot & structure requirements, 223 Stonington Drive, Tax map 078A Parcel 025, 0.47 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-2 (Single Family Residential). Approve: Yes 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Home destroyed in Helne. Complete rebuild and need to change setbacks.

      3. (J1b3) RZ25-12-05, Major PUD (Plannd Unit Development) Revision, 5100 Pierce Court, Tax Map 072 Parcel 043T, 5.09 +/- acres, and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development) Approve: Yes 5, No 0

      4. (J1b4) RZ25-12-06, Rezoning from R-1 (Single Family Residential) to C-C (Community Commercial), portions of 113 & 127 South Old Belair Road, portions of Tax Map 068 Parcels 018 & 019D, 3.20 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-1 (Single Family Residential) Approve: Yes 5, No 0

         Schlachter: Retail building. 50ft buffer near residential property. vegetation and fence in buffer. Traffic concerns from neighbors but GDOT controls.

      5. (J1b5) RZ25-12-07, Rezoning from R-1 (Single Family Residential to S-1 (Special), portions of 113 & 127 South Old Belair Road, portions of Tax Map 068 Parcels 018 & 019D, 17.30 +/- acres in total and currently zoned R-1 (Single Family Residential) Withdrawal W/O Prejudice: Yes 5, No 0

      6. (J1b6) RZ25-12-08, Rezoning from split zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural) and M-1 (Light Industrial) for portions of the properties and split zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural) and S-1 (Special) to S-1 (Special), 690 Louisville Road, 728 Louisville Road, 750 Louisville Road, 760 Louisville Road, off Baker Place Road, and off Interstate 20, Tax Map 051 Parcels 029, 030, 031, 032, and 044 and Tax Map 040 Parcel 055B, a total of 434.85 +/- acres, and currently split zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural) and S-1 (Special). Approved with limited left turn times to cut down on truck traffic during school drop off/pick up. Yes 3 (Melear, Carraway, Duncan) No 2 (Couch & Steed)

         Public Speakers (Opposed):

         • Ronald Gilchrist

         • Daniel Landing

         • Gregory (missed last name)

         • Dr. Morgan Grehan

         • Brandon Turrett

         • Jeremy Pennington

         • Stephen Sims (Kimberly Sims)

         • Kay Jones

         • Dewey Carey

           Public Speakers (For)

         • David Grayson (Business Owner)

         • John Eubank

      7. (J1b7) RZ25-12-09, Rezoning from split zoned R-2 (Single Family Residential) and S-1 (Special) to S-1 (Special) and Major S-1 (Spcial) revision, 638 & 600 Stevens Creek Road, Tax Map 084 Parcels 012 and 006C, 4.78 +/- acres and 24.92 +/- acres respectively, and currently split zoned R-2 (Single Family Residential) and S-1 Special. Approve: Yes 5, No 0

Requests for Review by Committe

1. (L1) C3AI for Property Appraisal Assistance: Committee recommends the software not be adopted

Public Comments:

• Blaine Carter: Questions about running for a commission seat

• Susan Warren: Anti-AI data centers

• Lindsey Brantley: Opposed to Pumpkin Center Technology Campus (Data Center)

• Murdaugh: Opposed to Pumpkin Center Technology Campus (Data Center)

Adjournment: 7:49PM

Next scheduled meeting is Tuesday, January 20 2026 at 6:00 PM in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center

Note: Commissioner Jim Steed was absent, all 4 other commissioners were in attendance

Call To Order: 6 pm

Approval of 12/2/2025 Minutes: Yay 4, No 0

Consent Agenda. Approve: Yay 4, No 0

1. Community and Emergency Services Committee Commissioner Carraway

   1. (H1a) Modify the 2025 Christmas Holidays to Include Friday, December 26th

   2. (H1b) Agreement with Open Sky Drone Light Shows for Drone Light Show for 2026 Boom! in the Park

   3. (H1c) USA BMX Gold Cup Southeast Finals Host Agreement

   4. (H1d) Donation for the Hazardous Materials Response Team from Piedmont Propane.

2. Management and Internal Services Committee Commissioner Melear

   1. (H2a) Amendment to the Comprehensive Policy 302.1 - Grievance Procedure

   2. (H2b) Clariti Permitting and Licensing Solution Annual Maintenance Payment

   3. (H2c) Dedicated Internet Access Agreement with Cogent Communications

   4. (H2d) Migration of Cityworks Software to a Trimble Software-as-a-Service Platform

   5. (H2e) Tower Lease Agreement with American Tower for Blanchard Park

   6. (H2f) Purchase of Network Equipment from WorldTechIT

   7. (H2g) Change Order 002 for Additional Services with Johnson, Laschober & Associates, P.C. for the Columbia County Fire Rescue Station #2 Project

3. Development and Planning Services Committee Commissioner Steed

   1. (H3a) Alcoholic Beverage License Pham Nguyen Restaurant LLC dba Banh Mi Dang

   2. (H3b) Easement Encroachment Agreement Tax Map 073A Parcel 438

   3. (H3c) Ancillary Dwelling Variance for Tax Map 018 Parcel 005A

4. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee Commissioner Couch

   1. (H4a) Cranston Engineering Change Order #1 for Reed Creek Streambank Stabilization

   2. (H4b) Independent Contractor Agreement with Hydrologics, Inc. to Pilot a Zero Discharge Flushing Program

   3. (H4c) Amendment Number 3 to the Master Services Agreement with Paymentus

   4. (H4d) Contract #2025-3393 with EnviroHydro, LLC for NPDES Sampling and Reporting on Various County Projects

   5. (H4e) Contract #2025-3395 with Peek Pavement Marking, LLC for the FY25/26 Safety Striping Project A

   6. (H4f) Lighting Services Agreements with Georgia Power to Upgrade Street Lighting to Various Areas - Phase III

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

   1. Management and Internal Services

      1. (I1a1) Criminal Justice Coordinating Council BJA Adult Drug Court Discretionary Grant Program Q23-8-016. Accept $29K grant: Yay 4, No 0

      2. (I1a2) Acceptance of Columbia Judicial Circuit ARPA Funding Grant CY2026 ARPA 3Y009. Accept $52,177 grant to clear backlog. Yay 4, No 0

   2. Community Emergency Services Committee

      1. (I1b1) Restructure Fire Services Dispatch. Approve: Yay 4, No 0

         Johnson: Number of calls have expanded over the years. Cover down on EMS calls for the cities and countywide. Having trouble meeting demand. They will hire additional staff. $195,689 increase for 1/2 a year. Money available through fire services fund.

   3. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I1c1) RZ25-12-02, Major PUD (Planned Unit Development) Revision, located at the intersection of Market View Parkway and Washington Road, Tax Map 065 portion of Parcel 674, 1.91 +/- acres out of 26.2 +/- acres and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development). Approve: Yay 4, No 0

         Schlachter: Chick Fil A needs to go into the easement some for the canopy. It’s better for Chick Fil A to have the canopy so they can keep cars moving and traffic doesn’t get backed up on the street.

      2. (I1c2) Waiver of Distance Requirements for the Sale of Alchoholic Beverages on Parcel 050002E. Approve, Yay: 3, No: 1 (Melear)

         Schlachter: County has an ordinance that liquor sales has to be a certain distance from parks. A grocery store wants to come in. This is the first step in that. This would only apply to grocery stores over 25,000sq ft. Would still have to come back to apply for a liquor license, on & off premise consumption.

         Melear: Would it stay that way forever? How far away is the grocery store from parks?

         Schlachter: It would stay that way forever but would only apply to the grocery store. The distance…. Hasn’t seen conceptual drawings yet but probably 200-300 feet from the entrance.

2. Items Added at the Meting

Reading of Resolution 25-46 for State delegation.

Public Comments:

• Howard Johnson

• Karin Parham

• Susan Warren

• Joan Krupsky

• Lisa Fletcher

Executive Session

1. Personnel

   1. (M1a) Personnel A: Executive Leadership contracts. Approve, Yay: 4, No: 0

   2. (M1b) Personnel B: Chief Marshall retired, promote Brasel. Approve, Yay: 4, No 0

2. Property

   1. (M2a) Property A: Donation easement, 5/8 properties for Horizon Park. Approve, Yay 4, No 0

   2. (M2b) Property B: Donation for Euchee Creek Main Project. Approve, Yay 4, No 0

   3. (M2c) Property C: Furys Ferry Rd Widening Project. Took out a fence and need to make the HOA whole. Approve: Yay 4, No 0

   4. (M2d) Property D: Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. 95% of acquisitions complete. Approve: Yay 4, No 0

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday January 7, 2026 at 6:00 pm in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center.

Call To Order: 6:00 pm

Roll Call/ Quorum: Commissioner Steed not present.

Approval of the 11/18/2025 Meeting Minutes: Yay 4, No 0

Special Recognition, Presentation, and/or Declaration:

1. (G1a) Recognition for Emergency Management Agency of the Year for 2025

Consent Agenda. Approve: Yay 4, No 0

1. 1. Community and Emergency Services Committee

   1. (H1a) DHS Coordinated Transportation Grant Contract

   2. (H1b) Animal Services Donations

   3. (H1c) Library Services Agreement with the Columbia County Library System

2. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee Commissioner Couch

   1. (H2a) Georgia Department of Transportation Radius Encroachment Easement Agreement at the Corner of William Few Parkway and Columbia Road

   2. (H2b) Rejection of the Bid #2025013-BID3289 for the Pollard House Renovation

   3. (H2c) Independent Contract with Thomson Roofing for the Reroofing of the Columbia County Cares Building

   4. (H2d) Independent Contractor Agreement with Duke’s Root Control to perform a Precision I&I Microdetection Study

   5. (H2e) The Purchase of Pigging Project Valves from American Flow

   6. (H2f) Resolution 25-38 on the Creation of a ‘No Parking’ Zone on Grimaude Blvd

   7. (H2g) Change Order #3 to Contract #2023-2579 with Blair Construction for the Miramar Drive Storm Sewer Extension Project

   8. (H2h) 2026 Local Maintenance Improvement Grant (LMIG) Project List and Application

   9. (H2i) Rescind Contract #2025-3301 with United Signs, LLC for the Gateway Signage and Landscaping Project

   10. (H2j) Bid #2025022-BID3313 and Contract #2025-3388 with Tri Scapes, LLC for the Gateway Signage and Landscaping Project

   11. (H2k) Contract #2025-3383 with Anderson Environmental, Inc. for Property Abatement, Demolition, and Removal Services on the Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project

   12. (H2l) Contract 2025-3375 with UES Professional Solutions 18, LLC for Geotechnical Services on the Wrightsboro Rd Widening Project

   13. (H2m) Change Order #2 to Contract #2025-3194 with Pond & Company for Expanded Preliminary Engineering Services Related to the Realignment of N. Fairview Drive

   14. (H2n) Acceptance of Improvements at Greenpoint, Phase III

Debate Agenda

1. Unfinished Business

   • Development and Planning Services Committee

     1. (I1a1) Ordinance Number 25-07, Text Amendment, Chapter 90 Zoning, Article III Commercial, Industrial, Professional, Special, Planned Unit Development and Planned Development Districts, Section 90-97 Allowed Uses, Section 90-98 List of lot and structure requirements, and establishing Section 90-101 D-C Data center district. Article IV Supplemental Requirements, Section 90-139 Buffers and screening, and Section 90-147 Use provisions. - Second Reading. Approve: Yay 4, No 0

     Public Comments opposed to Ordinance:

     • Brian Barefoot

     • Susan Warren

     • Traci (didn’t catch her last name)

     • Lee Muns

     • Howard Johnson

2. New Business

   1. Management and Internal Services Committee

      1. Resolution Number 25-40 Columbia County Board of Education Requesting the Levy and Collection of an Annual Ad Valorem Tax for the Columbia County School District General Obligation Bonds, Series 2025. Approve: Yay 4, No 0

         Chairman Duncan asked the County Attorney (Mr. Driver) why they needed to vote on this for the school board. Mr. Driver said (paraphrasing) that it’s State law, but the County is not issuing the bonds nor is the County responsible for repaying the bonds. The School Board is responsible for that and this was already voter-approved.

   2. Development and Planning Service Committee

      1. (I2b1) VA25-11-01, Variance to Section 90-135 Signs, 464 North Belair Road, Tax Map 072A Parcel 068, 2.67 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-1 (Neighborhood Commercial) Approve: Yay 4, No 0

         New ER Sign for the Emergency Room.

      2. (I2b2) RZ25-11-04, Rezoning from C-2 (General Commercial) to S-1 (Special), 6611 & 6605 Washington Road, Tax Map 024 Parcels 004A and portion of 003, 21.9 +/- acres total, and currently zoned C-2 (General Commercial).Approve: Yay 3, No 1 (Commissioner Melear)

         Boat/RV Storage. 300 sq ft of storage, maximum of 10 structures

      3. (I2b3) RZ25-11-05, Master Sign Plan, 2207 William Few Parkway, Tax Map 050 Parcel 002E, 20.51 +/- acres, and currently zoned C-C (Community Commercial)Approve: Yay 4, No 0

         Sign i not to be included.

      4. (I2b4) RZ25-11-06, Major S-1 (Special) Revision, 825 North Belair Road, Tax Map 072 Parcel 207, 21.47 +/- acres, and currently zoned S-1 (Special). Approve: Yay 4, No 0

         Church adding buildings. Replacing 1 building that was damaged in Helene.

      5. (I2b5) Rz25-11-07, Rezoning from R-2 (Single Family Residential) to R-A (Residential Agricultural), off Hamilton Road, portion of Tax Map 052 Parcel 037, 27.57 +/- acres of a 96.49 +/- acre total, and currently zoned R-2 (Single Family Residential). Approve: Yay 4, No 0

         Houston Homes is developer. Bringing sewer to lots.

Public Comments:

• Karin Parham

Executive Session

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Property A. Washington Rd & William Few Pkwy intersection widening. Approve. Yay 4, No 0

   2. (M1b) Property B. Hereford Farm Rd, condemnation properties. Most of these properties are ones where they were negotiating and then the other party stopped responding. Approve. Yay 4, No 0

   3. (M1c) Property C. Storm easements, sewer/water line easements. Approve. Yay 4, No 0

   4. (M1d) Property D. Properties for Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. 94% complete. Approve. Yay 4, No 0

Adjourn

The next scheduled Board of Commissioners meeting is Tuesday, December 16, 2025 at 6 pm in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center.

Call to Order: 6 pm

Approval of 11/4/2025 Meeting Minutes: Yay 5, No 0

Consent Agenda (None)

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Committee

      • (I1a1) RZ25-11-02, Major PUD (Planned Unit Development) Revision, 975 Windmill Parkway, Tax Map 059A Parcel 307, 0.43 +/- acres, and currently zoned PUD (Planned Unit Development) and Easement Encroachment. Approve: Yay 5, No 0

        Schlachter: An existing gazebo was built 2.5 ft off property line but required to be 5 ft based on its size. The pool was previously approved within 10 ft of sewer & should have been 20 ft. This brings this into compliance. HOA has seen and also approved.

      • (I1a2) RZ25-11-03, Rezoning from R-A (Residential Agricultural) to S-1 (Special), 5385 Washington Road, Tax Map 058 Parcels 218B, 218C & 218D, 12.54 +/- acres combined, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural). Disapprove: Yay 5, No 0

        Schlachter: Applicant wants to use this as parking lot for RVs, trailers, etc. Something usually in a C3 or light industrial. Applicant stated this is for transitional use until property gets sewer, then do something different long term. Staff recommnds disapproval.

      • (I1a3) Ordinance Number 25-07, Text Amendment, Chapter 90 Zoning, Article III Commercial, Industrial, Professional, Special, Planned Unit Development and Planned Development Districts, Section 90-97 Allowed uses, Section 90-98 List of lot and structure requirements, and establishing Section 90-101 D-C Data center district. Article IV Supplemental Requirements, Section 90-139 Buffers and screening, and Section 90-147 Use provisions. – First Reading

      S Johnson: Rezoning classification. This is first Reading and will require 2nd reading if passed 1st reading tonight. Aimd at data center development as that’s been a big issue in our community for awhile now. Looked at other zoning ordinances in other jursitictions, traveled to other places, and seen problems other people have had, and take that into consideration. Looked at public input. One of the more stringent ones we’ve seen. Nobody will be happy with everything. This creates data center zoning. We want all data centers to fall under this. It has very specific uses, specific lot requirements, such as building heights. Buffers probably one of the the biggest things. Buffers more stringent than other zoning, especially residential. Additional use provisions, sound restrict of 70 decibels. That’s about a normal conversation. How generators can b tested/used, lighting, prohibition of wells - tapping into acquiffer, fencing and parking/landscaping, that kind of thing. Staff didn’t go into this lightly. Took a lot of time & effort to creating zoning ordinance. Took into consideration public feedback.

      Melear: Can you go into the 1st reading, 2nd reading timeline?

      Johnson: Any change in ordinances requires 2 readings. This is a 1st reading. If approved tonight, the 2nd reading will be at the next commission meeting and final reading & vote. Rezoning applications after that goes into effect. No right to do anything tonight. Each zoning zoning decision will be heard at a later date. 1st, 2nd reading then ordinance, then application for Rezoning, property posting, planning commission approval, Board of Commission approval before anything can move.

      Public Comments:

      Sylvia Elam: Against the ordinance

      Vin Mueller: Liked some parts but had suggestions for changes to ordinances

   2. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee

      1. (I1b1) Contract #2025-3387 with Southern Asphalt for Milling and Resurfacing Memorial Park Trail Approve: Yay 5, No 0

         Schlachter: This is from Helene damage. Sure that they might run into problems when they start repairs so increased budget. Reimbursable from FEMA.

Doug Duncan remarks regarding data centers

Public Comments:

• Janice Mueller: extensive conversation with Scott Johnson about data center. 37:25-57:44 on live stream linked at the top.

• Karen Phelps: Against library guidelines

• Erin Billue: (representative from company that develops data centers) for the new zoning ordinance.

• Howard Johsnon: Recommended Sandra Bowers for the new Library Board.

• Elijah Sat: stated that it didn’t seem like public comments were considered before they voted on things.

• Susan Warren: Questions about Open House Thursday for Foundation of Future (3pm and exhibition center). Against data center.

• DJ Hadden: For the data centers

Adjourn.

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday, December 02, 2025 at 6:00 p.m. in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center

Approval of the 10/21/2025 Meeting Minutes: Yay 4, No 0

Consent Agenda: Yay 4, No 0

1. Community and Emergency Services Committee

   1. (H1a) Judicial Circuit Accountability Court Contract for Treatment Services with Still Waters Professional Counseling Services, Inc.

   2. (H1b) Resolution 25-36 Amendment to Convention & Visitors Bureau, Inc. By-Laws

   3. (H1c) Acceptance of a Soccer Grant from the Atlanta United-Blank Foundation

   4. H1d) Agreement with the Georgia Emergency Management Agency and Homeland Security Agency / Georgia Search and Rescue team (GSAR).

2. Development and Planning Services Committee

   1. (H2a) Alcoholic Beverage License Gregory M Parker Inc dba Parker’s #149

   2. (H2b) Alcoholic Beverage License Garcia Coutino Inc dba Agaves Mexican Grill

3. Public Works and Engineering Services Committee

   1. H3a) Resolution 25-37 Deeding the State Patrol Post (051001C) to the State Properties Commission

   2. (H3b) Purchase of Grasshopper Mowers For Roads and Bridges.

   3. (H3c) Purchase of Vehicles for Storm Water

   4. (H3d) Purchase of a Skid Steer for Recreation

   5. (H3e) Purchase from Vermeer Southeast of a VIO-35 Mini-Excavator

   6. (H3f) Purchase from Vermeer Southeast of a VIO-55 Mini-Excavator

   7. (H3g) Purchase of Water Meters from Sensus, Inc.

   8. (H3h) Independent Contractor Agreement with Advance Industrial Mechanical LLC. (AIM) to replace HVAC at the Jim Blanchard WTP

   9. (H3i) Independent Contractor Agreement with American Pipeline Solutions for Water Main Cleaning Project

   10. (H3j) Memorandum of Understanding with Georgia Department Of Transportation for Utility Adjustments at the Intersection of SR 232 and CR 576

   11. (H3k) Independent Contractor Agreement with ISM, LLC. for Engineering Services for Columbia Road and Louisville Road Roundabout Utility Relocation

   12. (H3l) Independent Contractor Agreement with CROM Corp to Provide Structural Evaluation of the Halali Farm Rd Storage Tank

   13. (H3m) GA Power Agreement to Run Power to Progress Drive Lift Station

   14. (H3n) Change Order Number 1 for the Euchee Creek Sewer Forcemain

   15. (H3o) Proposal from Georgia Power to provide Safety Lighting at the Intersection of Wrightsboro Rd and Kettle Creek Dr

   16. (H3p) Proposal from Jefferson Energy to provide Safety Lighting at the Intersection of Cobbham Rd and Tom Bartles Rd

   17. (H3q) Change Order #1 to Contract #2025-3155 with Cajenn Construction for the 2025 UV Lining Rehabilitation Project

   18. (H3r) Change Order to Furys Ferry Rd Widening Contract 2021-1995 with ER Snell for the Mullikin Rd Waterline Abandonment

   19. (H3s) Additional Funding for Contract #2025-3156 with JA Long, Inc. for the Riverwood Roundabout

   20. (H3t) Supplemental Agreement No. 1 with GDOT for Hardy McManus Rd Widening, PI#0013704

   21. (H3u) Supplemental Agreement No.1 with GDOT for Euchee Creek Greenway (All Remaining Phases), PI# 0017529

   22. (H3v) Contract #2025-3370 with Pond & Company for Engineering Services for the Washington Rd Widening Project

   23. (H3w) Contract #2025-3371 with S&ME for Geotechnical Consulting Services at the Savannah Rapids Pavilion

   24. (H3x) Contract 2025-3372 with Triple Point Engineering for Post Closure Care Maintenance and Compliance Services at the Baker Place Rd Landfill

Debate Agenda

1. New Business

   1. Development and Planning Services Committee

      1. (I1a1) VA25-10-01, Variance to Section 90-53 List of Lot and Structure Requirements, 938 Windmill Lane, Tax Map 059A Parcel 011, 2.08 +/- acres, and currently zoned R-A (Residential Agricultural). Approve: Yay 4, No 0

Asking to change the setback from 25ft to 10ft for a storage structure.

Public Comment

• Howard Johnson

• Marcus Todd

• Karin Parham

• Diane Jarrett

• Jonathan Beguerest (sp?)

• Alexander Dixon

• Alan Wyatt

• Susan Warren

• Lee Muns

Executive Session

1. Personnel

   1. (M1a) Personnel A: Merit payment of 2.5% for all county employees that scored 3 or higher on evaluation. Yay 4, No 0

2. Property

   1. (M2a) Property A: Donation of Easement for Chastaine Place Left turn lane. Yay 4, No 0

   2. (M2b) Property B: Donation of Easement, Horizon South Chamberlain Rd connection. 50% complete. Yay 4, No 0

   3. (M2c) Property C: Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. 93% Complete. Yay 4, No 0

   4. (M2d) Property D: Hereford Farm Rd Widening Projct. Relocation, so had to follow federal rules and make property owner whole (They had to move out of their house and buy a new house with new terms of mortgage,etc $550K) Yay 4, No 0

3. Adjournment

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday November 18, 2025 at 6:00 PM in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Goveernment Center.

Call To Order: 6:00 PM

Approval of 10/7/2025 meeting minutes: Yay 4, No 0

Special Recognitions, Declarations, Presentations

1. Declaration: Recognize 11/2/2025 as Retired Educators Day

Consent Agenda: Approve: Yay 4, No 0

1. Management and Internal Services Committee:

   1. (H1a) FY26 Service Agreement with CSRA Alliance for Fort Gordon

   2. (H1b) Service Agreements with Safe Homes of Augusta and the Hattie Mae and Deborah Marshall Scholarship Foundation

   3. (H1c) Resolution Number 25-32 Appoint the Initial Members of the Columbia County Library System

   4. (H1d) Resolution Number 25-33 Establishing the Columbia County Library Fees Fund

   5. (H1e) Purchase of Moving Light Fixtures from Quest Productions, LLC. for the Performing Arts Center

   6. (H1f) Fiscal Year 24/25 Required Budget Adjustment for Audit

   7. (H1g) 2025 ACCG – Group Self-Insurance Workers’ Compensation Fund Employee Safety Grant Award

   8. (H1h) Independent Services Contract with Electrical Design Consultants, Inc. for the Columbia County Exhibition Center and Fire Station 16

   9. (H1i) Independent Contract with Penn Roofing for the Reroofing of Evans Library

   10. (H1j) Change Order #8 for the Columbia County Tennis Court Renovations Project

   11. (H1k) Rejection of the Bid #2025032-BID3289 for the Columbia County Evans Library HVAC Renovations

   12. (H1l) Easement with Georgia Power for the Pollard House

   13. (H1m) Change Order 001 for the Patriots Park Gym Improvement Project

2. Development and Planning Services Committee Commissioner Couch

   1. (H2a) Easement Encroachment Agreement for Tax Map 077G Parcel 828

   2. (H2b) Easement Encroachment Agreement for Tax Map 084 Parcel 004H

Debate Agenda: None

Public Comments:

• Priscilla Bence

• Karin Parham

• Howard Johnson

• Mr. Welsh (I didn’t get his first name)

• Diane Jarrett

• Susan Warren

• Alan Wyatt

Chairman Duncan Statement regarding Data Center Concerns:

Executive Session:

1. Property

   1. (M1a) Property A: $75K for Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. 231/255 properties complete. Yay 4, No 0

   2. (M1b) Property B: 2 condemnations for Hereford Farm Rd Widening Project. Yay 4, No 0.

   3. (M1c) Fury’s Ferry Rd Widening Project. This is to acquire property for 3 fire hydrants. Yay 4, No 0

*A public speaker was late and missed their name called. Chairman Duncan allowed him to speak after the Executive Session.

• Marcus Todd

Adjourn: Yay 4, No 0

The next scheduled meeting is Tuesday 11/4/2025 at 6:00 PM in the Auditorium of Building A at the Evans Government Center