In a recent government meeting, officials addressed significant changes in local development policies and the procurement of essential equipment for public works.

A major point of discussion was the rising costs imposed by Georgia Power, which reportedly increased prices by 500%, impacting builders' financial plans. This sudden hike forced developers to seek alternative funding strategies, including a loophole that allowed them to sell lots before completing necessary infrastructure improvements. The county's previous policy required developers to pay a nominal fee per lot, which did not cover the actual costs of infrastructure, leading to a substantial financial shortfall. To rectify this, officials announced a new policy requiring developers to fully fund their projects and assume maintenance responsibilities moving forward.

Additionally, the meeting covered the procurement of several pieces of heavy equipment for the Roads and Bridges department. A tandem dump truck, which had recently been damaged in an accident, will be replaced at a cost of $174,305, funded through risk management insurance. Other equipment replacements include an excavator for $78,410.88 and a track loader for $127,900, both deemed necessary due to age and operational inefficiencies. The excavator will be repurposed for use at the recycling center, while the track loader's replacement was justified by the high cost of repairs compared to its market value.

Officials emphasized the importance of maintaining adequate equipment to support the county's various public works crews, which are engaged in multiple projects simultaneously. The meeting concluded with a commitment to ensure that the county's infrastructure and equipment needs are met efficiently and responsibly.