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Chairman Briar Johnson and Sheriff Jimmy Thomas
Fire Chief Bobby Wilkerson, Chairman Briar Johnson, and Captain Jeff Oliver
Fire Chief Bobby Wilkerson, Chairman Briar Johnson, and Deputy Chief Chasen Wright
Some of Pike County's awesome retired educators there for the signing of the proclamation for Retired Educators Day
Tuesday, October 25, 2022 – 6:30 p.m.
Courthouse, Main Courtroom, 16001 Barnesville Street, Zebulon, Georgia
Town Hall Meeting at 6:15 p.m.
Click here to see the documents that have been uploaded with the agenda on the Pike County government page.
Present Chairman Briar Johnson, Commissioners Tim Guy, Tim Daniel, James Jenkins, and Jason Proctor, County Clerk Angela Blount, County Manager (CM) Brandon Rogers, and County Attorney Rob Morton.
1. CALL TO ORDER ...... Chairman J. Briar Johnson
2. INVOCATION ...... Keith Ford
3. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE ...... Chairman J. Briar Johnson
4. APPROVAL OF THE AGENDA - (O.C.G A. § 50-14-1 (e) (1))
Received CIE from DCA on Friday afternoon. It will be late as of October 31 if not. Add under Unfinished Business Item 8A.
Motion to approve the amended agenda. Approved 5-0.
5. APPROVAL OF THE MINUTES - (O.C.G.A. § 50-14-1(e) (2))
a. Minutes of the September 27, 2022, Regular Monthly Meeting.
b. Minutes of the September 28, 2022, Special Called Meeting. (11:30 a.m.)
c. Minutes of the September 28, 2022, Special Called Meeting. (6:00 p.m.)
d. Minutes of the October 5, 2022, Special Called Meeting. (6:00 p.m.)
e. Minutes of the October 5, 2022, Special Called Meeting. (6:30 p.m.)
Motion to approve all of the minutes. Approved 5-0.
6. INVITED GUESTS
a. Bryan Richardson with Pike County American Legion Post 197 to present the Pike County First Responders of the Year Award Presentation.
Bryan Richardson, Historian of the American Legion Pike Post 197. Used to be an internal award, but they wanted to upgrade it to a county award. This is the 3rd year.
[Note from the Editor: This is the narrative from the American Legion Pike Post 197.]
Pike County Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
Sheriff Jimmy Thomas
James (Jimmy) Leroy Thomas, Jr. spent much of his youth under the influence of law enforcement. His father was a career police officer for the Fayetteville Police Department. So naturally, Jimmy was raised in a Police Officer’s environment, many times wondering whether his father would be home that night. Jimmy obviously admired his father and at the age of 14 became a Fayette County/Peachtree City Police Cadet. At 17, he was a Fayette County Sheriff’s Officer, working as a jailor and dispatcher. In 1976, Jimmy graduated from the Fayette County High School. He then graduated from Emanuel Bible College in Coweta County, and became an ordained minister.
Officer Thomas completed three levels of management from the University of Georgia. In 1980, he graduated from the Police Officers Standards and Training for Georgia at Clayton Regional Academy and became a uniformed patrol officer with the Union City Police Department in south Fulton County.
In 1986, Officer Thomas did it all as a firefighter, paramedic, and arson investigator with Fayette County. In 2000, he was elected Sheriff of Pike County and has been our Sheriff ever since. His first Sheriff related training was the 2000 Sheriff-Elect Training with the class of newly elected Sheriff’s in Georgia. In 2006, Sheriff Thomas graduated from the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. He has also received law enforcement training in search and rescue diving, photography, crime scene, building & codes enforcement, bomb squad, hazmat, and 120 hours of investigative training at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center.
Sheriff Thomas’s list of first responder experience is 22 years (six terms) as the Sheriff of Pike County, 42 years in law enforcement also referred to as public safety, certified firefighter with 20 years of service, and certified paramedic. He has served on the Georgia Task Force in Florida during the 1998 wildfire national disaster.
Perhaps, Sheriff Thomas’ most significant achievements during his six terms in office has been keeping the Pike County Sheriff’s Office up to date in law enforcement modernization, technology, and training, and at the same time maintaining high morale within his staff and officers.
Jimmy has been a business owner with TNT Graphics. He served on the Advisory Board for the Police Mandate Academy and All Hazards Council. Currently, he is member of the Georgia Board of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.
As Sheriff, he has received numerous community, humanitarian, and law enforcement awards and recognition which includes the United Men of Pike Community Service Award, Kiwanis Citizen of the Year Award, Regional Organized Crime Information Center Award of Excellence, two awards for humanitarian assistance during the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, an award from the National Equipment Register for one of the largest theft recoveries in Pike County history, and recognized by the Drug Enforcement Administration and Federal Bureau of Investigation for participation in a nationwide investigation targeting a drug cartel operation out of Mexico. As the Sheriff, the Pike County Sheriff’s Office was awarded the Griffin Judicial Circuit 2012 and 2013 Agency of the Year Awards.
Despite all the first responder duties he has been involved in, he still has some time for community service. Jimmy was the founding board member of the Pike County Youth Football Program, and board member of the Youth Baseball Program, Vice President of the Pike County Pirate Diamond Club, President of the Lady Pirate Pride Booster Club, and Youth Softball Board.
Sheriff Thomas has been married to his bride, Margaret for over 46 years, and they live just west of Concord. They have 3 children, and 4 grandchildren. Sheriff Thomas is well deserving of this award, and it’s about time he be recognized as the 2022 Pike County’s Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.
[Note from the Editor: End of narrative.]
Chairman Briar Johnson said that 4 or 5 years ago, ACCG asked then CM John Hanson, Sheriff Thomas, and Chairman Briar Johnson to set on a panel together. It’s rare for everyone to get along in a county like that. 6 months later, several commissioners asked if they really got along. He told them that they disagreed from time to time, but that they have never had a disagreement that they didn’t work out. That has impacted a lot of commissioners.
Sheriff Thomas spoke and said, I don’t deserve this. My family and staff put up with a lot of stuff. They meet the public and get the questions. I am thankful for my family. Thankful for the commissioners working with the Sheriff’s Office. Also thankful for my staff because they know exactly what is going on. Thank you for this opportunity. If anyone would like the job, it’s an honor. It couldn’t be without your support. I really didn’t deserve this. We should have called the staff first.
[Note from the Editor: This is the narrative from the American Legion Pike Post 197.]
Pike County Firefighter of the Year
Captain Jeffery D. Oliver
A lifelong resident of Pike County, Captain Jeffery D. Oliver has served in many different roles and departments while selflessly serving its citizens. He has served as a Pike County 911 Dispatcher from 1994 to 1998; as a Patrolman, Corporal, and Sergeant in the Pike County Sheriff’s Office from 1998 until 2006; Patrolman, Sergeant, and Shift Supervisor for the City of Jonesboro Police Department from 2006 to 2021, and back as a Pike County 911 Dispatcher from 2021 to the present. Since 1992, and for a total of 30 years, Captain Oliver has been an active member of the Pike County Fire Department both before and after its creation and consolidation. He has served in many different roles during his time with the department, ranging from firefighter, Lieutenant, Interim Chief, and currently as a Captain at Station 8 in Pike County’s Second District.
Captain Oliver has been a key figure in the department’s growth. No matter what challenges have been placed before him, whether it be on calls or during the evolution of the Departments administration and operations, Captain Oliver has always been fluid and willing to learn and adapt. There is a high level of respect and admiration from his peers and leaders. Through the years, Captain Oliver was always the one person you could count on to be at any incident with a truck from Fire Station 8. He personally shaped Fire Station 8 into the busiest firehouse in the county and there was rarely a fire or major incident in which the station was not present which, without a doubt, is due to his hard work and leadership.
The department went through a very important Insurance Services Office (ISO) inspection this year. Captain Oliver played a vital part in its success. He dedicated countless hours preparing for this inspection. He was instrumental in the Departments successful results. Over the past year he has been present and influential in the outcomes of many important incidents.
One example is on the night of the fire at the barbecue restaurant on the square, Captain Oliver responded in Engine 8 and not only established positive water for the incident but also handled all apparatus operations at the incident. Property was saved and damage could have been greater had it not been for the hard work of many on scene, but was highlighted through Captain Oliver’s efforts.
Captain Oliver’s past training includes the Georgia State Firefighter Certification in 1992, Georgia Peace Officers Standards and Training (POST) Certification in 1998, and Medical First Responder in 2008. In 2018, Captain Oliver received the Pike County American Legion Post 197 Firefighter of the Year Award.
Those who work with him and the community in which he serves, benefit from his selfless service to its citizens on a daily basis. For his dedication to duty, outstanding achievements, and service to our county, Captain Oliver is this year’s 2022 Pike County Firefighter of the Year.
[Note from the Editor: End of narrative.]
Chairman Briar Johnson spoke. I worked with Jeff at the Sheriff’s Office about 20 years ago. Jailer and dispatcher was the same person back then. He looked after his deputies. He did a great job then and now.
Fire Chief Bobby Wilkerson spoke. We had a vision and direction but had to get our base back where we had it. Jeff gave the history and helped us move forward. His experience is invaluable. He is a blessing for Pike County.
Captain Jeff Oliver said, I have seen a lot of changes. It’s an honor to be a part of it.
[Note from the Editor: This is the narrative from the American Legion Pike Post 197.]
Pike County Emergency Medical Technician of the Year
Deputy Chief Chasen L. Wright
Chasen Wright was born in 1987, and raised in Fayetteville, Georgia. Chasen started his firefighter/emergency medical career with the City of Fayetteville in 2005 at 18 years old. He has worked in emergency services for the City of Fayetteville, Henry County, City of McDonough, and Pike County, Georgia. Deputy Chief Wright holds over 35 Emergency Services related certifications. He also holds a Class A commercial driver’s license, Georgia Soil and Water Conservation Commission (GSWCC) Level 2 certification and is a Commission (GSWCC) certified plan reviewer. He has served as a Station Lieutenant for Pike County Emergency Services and is currently the Deputy Chief of Training for Pike County Emergency Services.
Deputy Chief Wright holds the rating of Emergency Medical Technician - Intermediate (EMT-I). In the course of his duties as an EMT, Deputy Chief Wright responded to 165 medical calls within the past year. Deputy Chief Wright’s response to incidents, and his knowledge and abilities, have been crucial to Pike County’s emergency medical response efforts. There are three Pike County residents who are still with us today because of Chasen Wright. These are three lives which may well have been lost if not for his emergency medical training, expertise, quick thinking, and dedication to service.
As a part-time first responder serving Pike County, Deputy Chief Wright is vital to the planning and future growth of the department. His work includes, but is not limited to, responding to various emergency calls, overseeing and providing training, ensuring training records are entered and forwarded to the State, and maintaining compliance with Georgia Emergency Medical Services Information System (GEMSIS) incident reporting requirements.
Chasen is a guy you like to see arrive on incident scenes. He conducts himself very professionally, is a good organizer, analyzes situations quickly, and develops and executes a plan. He gives reassurance to victims, patients and fellow service personnel under stressful situations in demanding environments. His medical and fire-related skills at emergency scenes definitely make Pike County a safer place to live, work and play.
Deputy Chief Wright and his wife Amy have been married for nine years. Amy is a support firefighter for Pike County Emergency Services at Station 8. They live in Zebulon, Pike County with their five children: sons Gideon who is 7 years old, Hesston 6, Casen 4, Vaylen 2, and daughter Atlee 1 years old; and they’re expecting their sixth child in December. They attend Mt. Olive Baptist Church in Molena. In appreciation for Deputy Chief Chasen exemplary service to Pike County in the medical services, he has been selected as the 2022 Pike County Emergency Medical Technician of the Year.
[Note from the Editor: End of narrative.]
Chairman Briar Johnson said that back when the Oink Joint caught fire, questions were asked about whether Pike County had certified fire fighters able to go into the structure. He said that we do, but the delay was laying out the fire hoses and getting everything prepared for when the door was opened. Several other agencies came up to help us. He said that an excellent job was done by calling for additional backup on that fire.
Fire Chief Bobby Wilkerson said that Chasen is a busy fellow. He is the Lt. of Station 8 and has brought our training to a new level. We went from 28 to about 60 volunteers now. He’s a true leader. He is the future of Pike County. He knows his job. Glad to have him here in Pike County.
Deputy Chief Chasen Wright said thank you to Chief Wilkerson for pushing him out of his comfort zone. He enjoys working with everyone and never seen himself as someone in a position of leadership. His wife puts up with a lot. She deals with it and supports him.
A comment was made at the end of the program that needs to be repeated here: Thank you to the First Responders for all that you do. If you haven’t met them, they deserve everything that they received here too.
b. William Camp with Raymond James.
SPLOST Update. William (Bill) Camp and Raymond James. Assisting with sales tax and debt projections. Said thank you to CM Rogers for working with him and said that he is thorough with his work. Also thanked Rob Morton for his help on this. Sales tax has experienced exception growth. Last 6 years have averaged almost 16% growth. Put a tool on the ballot for bonds when asking the voters to vote for SPLOST. We can borrow up to 14 million. 6 year SPLOST.
With no growth in SPLOST, collecting $2,000,357 each year. That would be a little over $14 million. What determines what we borrow and how much? Borrow in a tax exempt basis because we sell bonds to investors. Look at all the projects and the timing on each. Figure out what needs to be accomplished when.
$11,500,000. Many are ready to roll in 2023. These payments line up with roughly all of the sales tax minus a month without any growth. Pay off the principle and interest every year first. The county and the city work together on this.
Interest rates. Rates have gone above average. The Fed directly affects these rates. Meets again in November to raise the rate. There are some pros that go along with this. Short-term rates. We borrow on a tax-exempt basis. The Fed is also impacting US Treasury rates and can reinvest on a taxable basis. When we borrow money, we put that money to work by reinvesting those dollars. Borrow at one rate and reinvest at a higher rates so we’re making money on our money. We have to spend the money fast enough to keep the projects going or we have to give money back to the IRS. Going to help the county make as much money as it can.
The cities’ expenditures also impact county funds. Spend 10% 6 months. All within 24 months. Bond money and interest must be spent in order to get this deal.
Why are we going into debt? It allows you to complete projects faster. It’s a hedge against inflation. Earn some money on the money. This isn’t new. The school district and the county has done this before.
Click here to read the Pike County SPLOST Update presented to commissioners on October, 25, 2022.
Motion to approve. Approved 5-0.
7. REPORTS FROM COMMISSIONS, DEPARTMENTS, COMMITTEES, AUTHORITIES
a. Monthly Reports submitted from County Departments and County Authorities, including a Revenue/Expenditure Statement for all departments and a summary check register.
Discuss/Approve/Deny
b. County Manager Report
Update on County finances for the following funds/accounts:
General Fund ...... $2,015,135.43
Fire Dept. Donations ...... $7,520.73
Cash Reserve Account ...... $467,520.93
Jail Fund ...... $37,291.14
E-911 Fund ...... $371,786.56
DATE Fund ...... $40,553.19
Juvenile Court Fund ...... $13,319.37
Residential Impact Fee ...... $1,248,496.17
Commercial Impact Fees ...... $163,947.11
C.A.I.P FUND ...... $180,027.00
General Obligation SPLOST Tax Bond Sinking Fund, 2016 ...... $3,920.52
L.M.IG. Grant (DOT) ...... $229,285.11
c. County Manager Comment
Approached by a citizen to conduct a survey about Campbell Road. Her son was involved in an accident right there. There is limited sight there. In order to reach out to the DOT, he wanted to bring it to the Board first. She wants to see if they will put a decel road there. Consensus to support this effort with the DOT.
We’re over 1800 voters with a steady flow of traffic to vote. Please vote.
Received a notice from ACCG about Insurance Premium Tax. Because we are in the census period, we got a bump up. Estimated $81,646 in addition to what we had already planned for. Money for baseball netting.
October 27 between 6 and 7 p.m., there will be a candlelight vigil for domestic violence awareness month. IT’s never been held here before.
Thursday, the EMA will be holding classes for the county and cities on damage assessment. We need citizen participation to evaluate damages. 6 p.m. at the Strickland Building.
Tomorrow going to Troup County for regional training for CM and County Chairman.
d. Commissioner Reports
Jenkins. Rumors about $800 on a lock in the courthouse. CM Rogers said, I couldn’t tell you exactly, but that’s probably about right. One company does these locks. They have a special core. Just one door.
[Note from the Editor: I'm not fond of bringing items up in a meeting when there hasn't been discussion between the involved parties to see if resolution can be made first, but I have reported on incidents involving the county manager, elected officials, and department heads that resulted in a discussion but no disciplinary action. Click here to read a discussion about a possible violation of the State Gratuities Clause that I haven't heard another thing about. There is a letter on the Letters to the Editor page that has links to problems with an elected official and a department head that were addressed with money being put back into their budgets and one elected official being left alone about how to fill out her time sheet after she laid out state law for the county manager. The commissioners would have to direct the county attorney to look into these matters and then come to an agreement about what to do with these matters in an open meeting if there was a vote on the matter for whatever... like putting a write up in his file or anything like that. I haven't seen it, but I would be happy to make a correction if I am wrong on this. Now for the lock.
It is an $875 lock that looks like the lock on the Judge's Chambers on the other side of the hall. Pike County Times put in an open records request on this find out that the lock was invoiced on July 18, 2022. Labor to install and a service call would have brought the amount to $1,150, but the labor and installation was done by Building and Grounds hence the $875 only. The bill says, "Bill To Pike County Superior Court," but I do not have confirmation that this is the line item that this amount was paid out of. Pike County Times did receive emails that show clearly that there had been replacement of the lock for security reasons without even a phone call or email being sent to the elected official who was directly impacted by the change and should have been contacted to at least let her know about the replacement of a keypad that had been put in place at her request last year in her designated office/records space in Probate Judge's chambers. The change and lack of discussion directly impacted Probate Court, Juvenile Court, Superior Court, the District Attorney's Office, the Sheriff's Office, and the Public Defender's Office as well as the security of the courthouse. CM Rogers sent a reply to Probate Judge Blakeney saying. "I'm sorry if this has caused any issues" and explained why the lock needed to be changed from conversations between him and the Building Grounds Director and ended by saying that "...this was just simply trying to right a mistake that was made nothing more," but he did not address the fact no one had spoken to the judge prior to the change being made. It also didn't address the issue with courthouse security that was resolved in meetings between multiple elected officials (without any interaction from the county manager).
I am frustrated that the same things seem to be happening over and over again with no consequences for the county manager that might encourage him to at least speak with department heads, elected officials, the county attorney, and even county commissioners to figure out possible pro's, con's, and discuss long-term consequences before he simply does what he wants to do.
On a side note, I am finishing this write up on the same day as attending the morning meeting for November and have been told that the county manager will be out of the office and on leave until Thanksgiving. From the 11.9.22 meeting write up: Pike County Times asked why County Manager Brandon Rogers was not present in the meeting today. County Attorney Rob Morton advised that he is on leave until Thanksgiving. Pike County Times asked if there was a reason for him being on leave or anything in writing and was advised that there is not a document that is open to public disclosure on this matter. “He is entitled to leave under our policies and he is taking his leave,” said Morton.]
e. County Attorney Report to Commissioners
County Attorney Report. Did obtain a case dismissal against 3 commissioners earlier this month. Title searches with right of way with the Water and Sewer Authority and helping the Development Authority with closing transactions to help fill out the parks. Asked to look at Impact Fees. Helping with audit documentation, open records, etc.
8. UNFINISHED BUSINESS – NONE
1. CIE Approval - ADDED at the beginning of the meeting based on time constraints
This was presented with a public comment portion on this in a previous meeting. The DCA has reviewed it and approved it. Needs a vote of approval and signed by the Chairman. It is a part of keeping Local Qualified Government Status, and we won’t have another meeting before the 31. Motion to approve. Approved 5-0.
9. NEW BUSINESS
a. Approve/deny for Chairman Johnson to sign the proclamation honoring Sunday, November 6, 2022 as Retired Educators Day in Georgia.
Chairman Johnson read the proclamation. Motion to approve. Approved 5-0. Sunday, November 6, 2022 is designated as Retired Educators Day in the state of Georgia.
b. Accept warranty deed/dedication of The Reserve at Reidsboro Subdivision Right-of-Way.
Hold onto the deed for 2 years and then accept it. Motion to receive the warranty deed tonight. County Attorney Morton advised that someone needs to let the developer know that there is a bond requirement and a 2 year waiting period before the deed is accepted. Approved 5-0.
c. Discussion of the 2023 Georgia County Internship Program Grant.
Up to 200 hours for someone to come in and help out. We just went through Georgia Water Planning Program. We need to map out future growth and this would work for an intern. If we apply, this could apply to next summer when the current intern steps out so this could be finished. There is a cost to the county on this. Have to share some of the FICA costs. Will pay for total salary and most of the FICA costs. Less than $1,000. We tried for this in the past. We have a pretty good project to present for this. Motion for approval. Approved 5-0.
d. Discussion on previously paved portion of Hardin Road.
A portion of Hardin Road (200 feet) where Buffington meets by the church was milled down to dirt many years ago. There is a request to pave this small section. The cost to the county would be about $5,000. The advantage to this is that the traffic will minimize some of the dust to the playground. Discussion: Pavement dirt payment. The rest of Hardin would remain dirt. Commissioner Proctor said that he doesn’t this is a good idea. Citizens asking for this are concerned about the kids. Concern about the money aspect of this with the county. Tim Guy said that we need to ride this out another year at least. If no motion, then we can continue going with the agenda. Consensus to leave this unpaved.
e. Approve/deny Service Delivery Strategy Extension for Fiscal Year 2023.
Due on October 31. Typically just sign it and say we’re good for a few more years, but there were changes that needed to be discussed on this. Need to get an official extension through February of 2023 so the county and cities can take needed time to discuss this. Motion to get the discussion. Approved 5-0.
f. Approve/deny steel and erection contract for Blackmon Road Fire Station.
Received some bids on this. There was some potential property in Hollonville, but it wasn’t mentioned in the will. $57,416 with S&T is the least expensive. 3 others as well. Tim Daniel said that he is glad to see this moving forward. Motion to move forward with S&T. Discussion: Chairman Johnson asked if this is apples to apples. This company is local, and the erection cost is the big difference here. Approved 5-0.
g. Approve/deny steel and erection contract for Chestnut Oaks Extension Center.
4 bids on this as well. S&T’s bid of $76,133 was the least expensive. Discussion: 4 months out before we can expect to see the steel on these. Blackmon Road Fire Station first. Motion to approve. Approved 5-0.
20 Minutes to speak in favor and 20 minutes to speak against. County Attorney suggested consolidating the public hearings for both and consider the actions separately.
h. PUBLIC HEARING: To receive public input regarding REZ-22-06 J. Craig Darsey, owner and
applicant request a rezoning from A-R (Agricultural-Residential) to C-3 (Heavy Commercial) for
property located at 5385 US Highway 19, Zebulon, GA 30295 in Land Lots 232 & 249 of the 8th Land
District, further identified as Parcel ID 069-017. The property consists of 12.3+/-acres and the request
is to rezone the property to allow the parking and storing of equipment and commercial vehicles.
Commission District 2, Commissioner Tim Guy.
Action: Discuss/Approve/Deny
i. PUBLIC HEARING: To receive public input regarding SE-22-03. J. Craig Darsey, owner and
applicant request a special exception to allow outside storage in the Highway 19 Overlay District on
Parcel ID 069-017 located at 5385 US Highway 19, Zebulon, GA 30295 in Land Lots 232 & 249 of
the 8th Land District. The property consists of 12.3 +/- acres. Commission District 2, Commissioner
Tim Guy.
Action: Discuss/Approve/Deny
Planning and Development Director Jeremy Gilbert spoke. 2 separate with 1 public hearing for both. Currently being used as a storage area for trucks, trailers, etc. They’ve operating there since they purchased the property. In the overlay district and will require an overlay review. Only about 360 feet is in the overlay so only 2.5 acres is the overlay. Not wanting to construct any buildings. 2 fuel tanks on the property. Approximately 5 fire trucks on display.
If it is rezoned, the overlay applies to outside storage and would need a special exception. Staff recommended approval with conditions: portion in the overlay shall go through the overlay process, special exception, 50 foot buffer with residential, and only parking and storage of trucks, etc. Everything else will need other approval.
Outside storage in the overlay district. 400 foot only includes the fire trucks. Heard in August. Conditions. No outside storage will be seen by the public and must be screened with a fence needed, 50 foot buffer. The fire trucks would need to be screened if within the 400 feet overlay district.
IN FAVOR:
Ron Snowden has spoken to all of the neighbors. All are ok with this.
AGAINST:
None.
Closed the public hearing.
Motion to go with the Staff’s recommendation on 1 and 3. If 2 is not included, he can leave the fire trucks in the 400 feet. He can have outside storage without the screen.
County Attorney Morton suggested, Let’s go with rezoning first.
Conditions: 1) overlay review process, 2) special exception 3) 50 foot planted buffer, 4) only the proposed use is allowed. All other commercial uses require board approval. Discussion. He cannot build a building back there. This is only for parking and storage. 4th condition says that even if they are C3, they still have to come back and ask permission. If approve the rezoning application, going with 3 conditions or 4 conditions? Tim Guy made a motion to approve the rezoning application with the 4 conditions outlined from the Planning and Zoning Board. Tim Daniel second. Approved 5-0. Special Exception. Wanting to approve the special exception with conditions 1 and 3. Approved 5-0.
Chairman Johnson and the commissioners commended Jeremy on the quality of the pictures.
10. PUBLIC COMMENT
a. Walker Chandler to address the Board regarding obstruction of boat ramp at Flat Shoals.
Not present at the meeting.
b. Bobby Blalock and Dave Lamb to address the Board regarding Council on Aging.
Click here to read The Council on Aging for McIntosh Trail, Inc. Pike County Senior Priorities that was presented to the Pike County Commission on Tuesday, October 25, 2022.Dave Lamb, Chairman of the Council on Aging, advised that we represent the Council on Aging and McIntosh Trail. We meet on a regular basis. Barbara Messer needs to be formerly appointed to the board. He thanked County Attorney Morton for all of his Dad’s advice over the years.
1 million over the age of 65 in the state of Georgia. Double by 2027. Triple by 2048. We are a part of the 3 Rivers Agency on Aging.
Pike County specifically. Seniors are 3,440 out of 19,437 residents. Almost 18% of the population. Will increase to 22% by 2030. 1 in every 4 adults is 65 or older.
Surveyed active seniors at the Senior Center. 47% were 70 to 79. 27% were 80 or older. 100% of those participating use that center more than 2 days a week. 80% are SS beneficiaries. 100% Medicare. 7% receive some type of care from a family or friend.
1.8 million Georgians receiving care in their home from a friend, family member, or paid provider. Surveyed their priorities: 1) inflation and cost of living 2) cost of prescription drugs 3) delivery of information to senior services
Survey comment highlights: More info about care for seniors. Reduce cost of prescriptions.
3 Rivers Service Summary for F/Y 2021. Funding - $142,051. 17,033 meals provided to Pike County residents. Medicare Counseling - 19 residents. In-home Services Provided – 744 hours. Calls received for services – 381.
Thank you for your support to the Senior Center.
Bobby Blalock added that the Senior Center has a 15 passenger bus, but it would be blessing if they could get a larger bus because they are limited in who they can take on any kind of excursion.
11. EXECUTIVE SESSION
Executive Session. 8:19 p.m.
a. Chairman Briar Johnson is requesting an Executive Session to discuss the possible acquisition of real property pursuant to O.C.G.A. 50-14-3 (b)(1).
12. ADJOURNMENT
Agenda subject to revision.
Motion to adjourn. 8:55 p.m.
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