Trenton City Council Reviews Alcohol Permit Proposal, EPD Fine And TDAC Director Position

TRENTON, Ga. — The Trenton City Council held its monthly workshop and regular meeting Monday evening, discussing a wide range of topics including a proposed alcohol privilege card ordinance, property tax relief options, TDAC efforts, infrastructure projects, and community initiatives.

Proposed Alcohol Privilege Card Under Review

Council members received the first draft of a proposed alcohol privilege card ordinance that would require employees involved in alcohol sales to obtain a city-issued permit.

Under the proposal, employees selling alcoholic beverages would be required to complete an approved alcohol sales training course, provide identification, have a photo taken, and pay an application fee. The card would be valid for two years. City officials emphasized that the ordinance remains under review and no action was taken Monday night.

City Exploring Property Tax Relief Through Sales Tax Options

Mayor  and city staff also discussed potential property tax relief measures available through state legislation.

Officials reviewed information regarding the Floating Local Option Sales Tax (FLOST) and Local Homestead Option Sales Tax (LHOST) programs, which could potentially reduce city and county property taxes by utilizing sales tax revenues.

City leaders plan to continue discussions with Dade County officials before determining whether to pursue either option and potentially place the matter before voters in the future.

TDAC Director Position Under Review

Council members reviewed a draft job description for the future Trenton-Dade Animal Control, or TDAC Director position.

The job description has been developed through collaboration between city officials, County, and community stakeholders. Officials indicated they hope to finalize the position description soon so the recruitment process can move forward.

Sewer Spill Results in EPD Fine

City officials provided an update on a recent wastewater treatment plant incident that resulted in approximately 4,000 gallons of partially treated wastewater entering Lookout Creek.

The spill occurred after a malfunctioning valve allowed excessive flow into the system. Officials said the city immediately self-reported the incident to the Georgia Environmental Protection Division and conducted extensive water quality testing.

The city received a consent order from EPD and paid a civil penalty of $750. Officials noted the state considered the incident a relatively minor spill and acknowledged the city’s prompt reporting and corrective actions.

New Garbage Collection Rules Take Effect July 1

City leaders reminded residents that new garbage collection requirements will take effect July 1.

Only approved garbage carts displaying the City of Trenton logo or authorized extra-can stickers will be serviced. Loose trash and non-compliant containers will not be collected. Officials said the changes are necessary to accommodate automated collection equipment and improve efficiency.

Infrastructure and Grant Projects Continue

The council also received updates on several infrastructure initiatives, including:

• Improvements to drainage near First Street and Case Avenue.
• Engineering work related to future sidewalk projects near Dade County Schools.
• Planning for wastewater system upgrades, including a sludge press facility and improvements to the Wilbright Pump Station.
• Ongoing efforts to secure federal and state grants for utility and transportation projects.

Library Reports Strong Summer Participation

Dade County Public Library Director Lydia Nix reported a successful start to the library’s Summer Reading Challenge.

The opening event attracted nearly 200 children and more than 100 adults. More than 140 participants have already registered for the summer reading program, with over 18,000 minutes logged during the first week.

Tree City Celebrates 41 Years

Tree City of Trenton Director Jane Dixon updated the council on the organization’s 41st year of service.

Projects currently underway include the development of a tree tour map identifying trees planted throughout the city and early planning for a community garden project that could eventually be located at Jenkins Park or another central location.

Dixon also highlighted the continued involvement of Dade County High School FFA students, who volunteer at many Tree City events throughout the year.

Council Actions

During the regular meeting, the council approved:

• Reappointment of Seth House to the Dade County Library Board for another three-year term.
• Emergency replacement of City Hall’s aging air conditioning system.
• Renewal of the city’s probation services contract.

The meeting concluded with council members entering executive session to discuss personnel and legal matters.

After coming out of the executive session no action was taken, stating the matter is with the city attorney

Watch the Meeting Below