Work Session
The Dade County Board of Commissioners held their monthly meeting Thursday night, July 6th. Beginning with their work session, they discussed the approval of the ARPA expenditures which includes work on the Dade County Fire Training Center. This topic was tabled for the time being due to a need for a Request for Proposal.
Talk then turned to work on the Historic Dade County Courthouse. Mr. Jamey Blevins presented this month’s update of their work. The Budget Status as of this month shows RFP 2023-16 for landscaping has been issued and that responses have been requested for July 21st. A mandatory pre-bid conference has been scheduled for July 12th at 10:00 AM. The work itself at this point shows framing and drywall work is ongoing, in-wall electrical rough-in is continuing, additional courtroom ceiling tiles are being produced, and an exterior drain line work is schedule to being within the next two weeks.
Next on the agenda, Evan Stone, Executive Director of Dade County Economic Development presented the Industrial Development Authority Report of Activities. Trenton Pressing’s work has fallen behind due to rain, but feel they can meet their timeframe by the end of the year. Integer is still in the process of their 8 million dollar expansion and are adding employees every day. The IDA is please to report they have closed on an additional 78 acres of property for the new Trenton/Dade Industrial Park North. 40 of these acres are to be built upon. The Price Farm has had a two-story house that the IDA was hoping could be restored, however it’s in rough shape and will have to come down. There are several other projects in the works as well, including a dentist office.
County Attorney, Robin Rogers spoke about the allocation of fundstreatment programs. Commissioner Lowrey raised the question of whether government funding, specifically from a crisis fund, can be used for Handsup Ministry who helps people going through recovery.
Regular Meeting
The regular session began with Citizen’s Participation. Jennifer Blair spoke first, expressing gratitude for attention and action dedicated toward the transfer station, and spoke about recycling matters.
Commissioner Lowry provided his report on 911 call activity. There were a total of 2,767 calls for the month, which is slightly down. The discussion then shifts to the issue of traffic on Highway 299, which has been causing delays and frustration for residents. The state is being asked to address the problem, but there is uncertainty about when and how it will be resolved. Additionally, concerns are raised about the impact traffic will have on a potential new business opening in the area.
Mindy Haworth discussed various programs and events being held at the library. She mentioned there being a satellite site for a summer feeding program, serving 350 lunches in June. She also talked about the summer reading challenge and congratulate the participants who have completed it and received books for their home library. She then spoke about the “Time with Teacher” program, which provides free tutoring for children with certified teachers. The program has already started with 13 students and express excitement about its implementation. Additionally, she mentioned the “Ask a Lawyer” days, where people can receive free civil legal advice at the library. Ms. Haworth also highlights upcoming events such as rhythm celebrations, teen improv, adult writing workshops, and a science showcase for kids. A science showcase and a mobile classroom experience focused on agriculture in Georgia are also on the books at the library. She then mentioned that events are now being posted on Facebook and Instagram, and encourage people to visit the library for a tour.
The discussion then transitions to the financial report, with details of the balances and funds available in various accounts. The budget is currently at 91.67% attainment and revenues are at 95.39% attainment. They also mention the local options sales tax revenue and the total expenditures for the year. The report is then concluded, and the speaker asks if there are any questions or corrections before asking for a motion to approve the financial report, which it was.
Watch the full Meeting here!