MINUTES AUGUST 27,2024 6:00 PM  MERIWETHER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS  Commissioners Present: Chairman Gene King, Vice Chairman Adam Worsley, Commissioner Staff] Present: Theron Gay, Special Projects, Assistant County Administrator Blue Cole, County Clerk Allyson Stephens, Finance Director. John Gorton, HR Director Valerie Chambers and  Emmett Collins, and Commissioner Bryan Threadgill Commissioners Absent: Commissioner Rosla Plant  County Attorney Michael Hill Staff Absent: none I. CALLTO ORDER II. INVOCATION III. PLEDGETO THE FLAG IV. ADOPT. AGENDA  Chairman Gene King called the meeting to order at 6:00 p.m. The Invocation was given by Assistant County Administrator Blue Cole.  All.  Amotion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Vice Chairman Worsley to Adopt the Agenda with the following amendments: Remove #4 under Public Hearing- Ordinance. Amendment 2024-06: Article 7-Zoning. District Standards, Sec. 7.2. Appearance standards, Type IV MHP Only RoofPitch and Utility. Meeting and. Add #5 under New. Business-  Confrmation ofChange Order - KB. Autosys Access. All were in favor.  V. PRESENTATIONS VI. FINANCE REPORT  None.  Finance Director John Gorton presented the Board with the Bank Balances as of August 27, 2024, at 4:00 p.m. Director Gorton stated all finances were stable and there were no concerns with the finances. Director Gorton stated the LOST, SPLOST, and TSPLOST allocations will be coming in on Thursday, and Finance estimates they will be roughly the same as July. Director Gorton stated that on the SPLOST and TSPLOST commitments page, the $94,545.45 for the SCBA grant was. received back into the General Fund, and will be moved back into the SPLOST account, leaving an available balance in SPLOST of$216,713.00. Director Gorton stated that when the TSPLOST allocation comes ini it will eat away at the deficit of $203,000 and leave it at around $50,000 to $60,000. Director Gorton stated he believed there were still a few gravel invoices outstanding. Director Gorton stated that overall, the County was in a pretty good Cassandra Sharpe, Planning and Zoning: Director Sharpe notified the Board that the bid  financial situation going into the end oft the fiscal year.  VII. DEPARTMENT HEADS    request for the surplus property located in Woodbury on Bray Road was advertised as surplus property for sale and there were no bids received. Director Sharpe stated that she needed to readvertise and have it open from August 27, 2024, until November 4, 2024. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill, based on the recommendation ofMr. Theron Gay to allow Director Sharpe to readvertise the surplus property. The motion was seconded by Vice Chairman John Gorton, Finance Director: Director Gorton advised the Board that he was sorting through data and is trying to find the latest HOST agreement. Director Gorton stated that he needed to reach out to Bob Trammel to make sure that Finance has the latest revision oft the HOST Agreement. Director Gorton stated that once he has that, he should be able to have a definite answer on what the audit performance from Waste Management provides. Director Gorton stated that Finance has ended its meetings on the Budget with all Department Heads and is working on that to get to a balanced budget. Director Gorton stated that there should be something within the next week or so for the Commissioners to review for the budget. George Richmond, Animal Services Director: Director Richmond updated the Board on the status of the grant through the. Atlanta Humane Society and Rachel Ray Foundation. Director Richmond stated that things are moving forward with a slight delay that they had with a third party that was hired to oversee the quotes and bids. Director Richmond stated that it appears the County will receive the $50,000 dollar grant for the shelter and have quotes coming in for the roof, parking Iot pavement, and landscaper came in today. Director Richmond stated that as of now as it sits, it might be a little over $10,000 into the $18,000 that the Board the last time the grant was presented. Director Richmond stated that hopefully movement will occur within the next couple of weeks and knows that they are finishing the preparation to submit it to the Rachel Ray Foundation. Director Richmond stated that he would update the Board as the grant  Worsley. All were in favor.  progresses through the steps. VIII. CITIZEN COMMENT None. IX. MINUTES  1. Amotion was made by Vice Chairman Worsley and seconded by Commissioner Collins to accept the Minutes from the August 14, 2024, Regular Meeting at 9:00 a.m. Voting in favor were Chairman King, Vice Chairman Worsley, and Commissioner Collins. Commissioner  Threadgill abstained. The motion passed. X. PUBLIC: HEARING  1.  Case #P24-010-1 Request from Carmen Diamond to rezone parcel 070 009 -8.4 acres from LDR to RR for the continued use ofal kennel and boarding facility. AI motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Vice Chairman Worsley to enter the Public Hearing at 6:07 p.m. All were in favor. Director Sharpe stated that Ms. Carmen Diamond is requesting to rezone her property from LDR Special Use to RR for the continued use ofal kennel and boarding facilities. Director Sharpe stated that Ms. Diamond is currently under a Special Use, which allows her to have 15 dogs and 40 puppies or 6 litters, whichever comes first. Director Sharpe stated that Ms. Diamond was to give a letter to Director George Richmond, in the event something happened tol her, explaining who would take care ofthe animals ifneed be. Director Sharpe stated that, additionally, Ms. Diamond was asked to put upa fence on the southside of! her property. Director Sharpe stated that she would not be able to comment any further because Ms. Diamond is in litigation with the County, but Ms. Diamond is Ms. Carmen Diamond of26353 Roosevelt Highway, LuthersVille stated that she is in the rural  in attendance to speak to the Board and answer any questions.    development district, and it was previously zoned rural development when she purchased it and it was changed to LDR Special Use in 2017. Ms. Diamond stated that was what the Board decided to change the zoning to. Ms. Diamond stated that she is now requesting to change that to a rural reserve zoning. Ms. Diamond stated that you can'thave al kennel with the zoning RD and it has to be either LDR, RR, or Agriculture. Ms. Diamond stated that ifs she knew at the time in 20171 that her property qualified for RR or Agriculture, she would have specifically requested it at that time. Ms. Diamond stated she is aware of that now, thus the request. Ms. Diamond stated the request was for agricultural reasons as well, to raise livestock, possibly in the future. Mr. Theron Gay stated that he wanted toj provide clarification, as you can have an animal kennel for dogs or cats in an RR district. Mr. Gay stated it is a special use under LDR, which is what it was treated. Mr. Gay stated that Ms. Diamond moved the requested the rezone from RR to LDR and the Board granted a special use for al kennel. Mr. Gay stated the problem is that ifMs. Diamond comes forth tonight and already has an existing zoning as LDR special use, and the Board has voted to limit the adult dogs to 61 months or older to 15, and allow 61 litters or no more than 40 puppies, whichever comes first, for a kennel, with a fence that has not been completed yet. Mr. Gay stated that the issue is ifMs. Diamond is zoned back to RR, then unless the Board isv willing to replace the conditions onto the RR zoning, Ms. Diamond will be back down to5 5 dogs, which is what is allowed under the County Ordinance on kennels. Mr. Gay stated that it is ai matter ofwhere she is now, and the RR gains no benefit for Ms. Diamond that he can see, unless she wants to cut back on the number of dogs. Mr. Gay stated that Ms. Diamond will still have to ask the Board to put the conditions back that she already has on the LDR. Ms. Diamond stated that she needed to clarify multiple things that she did not agree with, that Mr. Gay said. Ms. Diamond stated that she was never zoned RR before. Ms. Diamond stated she is in the RD district. Ms. Diamond stated that when she purchased the property, it was zoned RD. County Attorney Hill stated that actually makes more sense. Ms. Diamond stated you can only be zoned low density residential, which requires a special use permit. Ms. Diamond stated RR and Agriculture, a kennel is aj permitted use in those two zonings, meaning if she had purchased a property already zoned RR or Agriculture, she would not even need to come in front ofthe Board, because the legal phrasing is you can have al kennel by right. Mr. Gay stated that would only allow 5 dogs. Ms. Diamond stated that she disagreed with Mr. Gay and unfortunately, when she purchased it, it was zoned RD and the County determined to change it to LDR, which required a special use permit. Ms. Diamond stated that in the Animal Control Ordinance, and she didn't know the specific statute, but it does list kennels specifically, as an exception to dog limitations, ifyou want to act in a personal capacity, which is part ofher motion for declaratory judgment. Ms. Diamond stated that ifyou want to have more than 5 dogs ifyou are zoned RR or Agriculture, you need a waiver and ifyou are kennel, which is a business, it specifically says, basically it is an exception to dog limitations, sO she believes the restrictions placed on her are erroneous, and in her motion, she cites quite a few pieces of documented evidence for that. Ms. Diamond stated that her request now is exactly the same to the "T" as Ms. Deborah Brady, that the Planning Commission and Board ofCommissioners, voted unanimously to approve. Ms. Diamond stated that Ms. Brady is also zoned ini the RD district at the top north end ofthe County. Ms. Diamond stated Ms. Brady was zoned RD and came in to change to RR, specifically for the purpose ofal kennel, and the Planning Commission and Board of Commissioners voted unanimously. Ms. Diamond stated her request is exactly the same, and she is in the RD district like Ms. Brady and wants to change to RR: for the purpose ofal kennel, which is why she is requesting the change. Mr. Gay asked Director Sharpe what the minimum acreage requirement was for RR zoning. Director Sharpe stated 10 acres. Ms. Diamond argued, stating that was not correct. County Attorney Hill held up the: zoning requirements from the County Ordinance. Mr. Gay stated that the property was an 8-+ acre tract, and not really even eligible for that zoning. County Attorney Hill stated that Mr. Gay was correct and Sec. 7.1 of the County Zoning Ordinances does have RR having a minimum lot acreage of 10 acres, which    is probably the reason. Ms. Diamond rezoned from RD to LDR. The LDR: zoning was chosen, because she was not eligible for RR. County Attorney Hill stated the LDR acreage is a 5-acre minimum. County Attorney Hill stated that Ms. Diamond does qualify under the LDR because shel has 8.4 acres. Ms. Diamond stated that the clarification on that int the fine print beyond what Attorney Hill said is that ifyoul have two or more acres on aj paved road, or five or more Chairman King asked Ms. Diamond, ifs she was ablei to have 15 dogs now and 61 litters and sO forth, where does it benefit her to reverse the: zoning? Ms. Diamond stated that shei is not reversing, becausei ifs she reverses, she goes back to RD. Chairman King asked why she is requesting to be rezoned to what she is asking fori now. Ms. Diamond stated the same reason that Ms. Brady did it, and iti is aj permitted use, and you can have a kennel by right. Director Sharpe stated that Ms. Brady also understands shel has to come before the Board for a waiver. Ms. Diamond stated she didn't know ifthel Board read the motion, but there are 11 licensed kennels that are documented, and shei is not even talking about the ones that aren't. Ms. Diamond stated she is the only one that has restrictions. Ms. Diamond stated that in practice and also by admission, Mr. Garrett, in 2010, did admit that for personal use, you need a waiver, and iti isi in the minutes, but for al kennel it does not apply. Ms. Diamond stated that, by admission and in practice, that is what this County has been doing. County Attorney Hill stated that the Board is here on ai rezoning request and not on litigation that Ms. Diamond has filed. County Attorney Hill stated the question to thel Board is whether they want to rezone the property from LDR to RR, and whether she qualifies under RR. Ms. Diamond interrupted Mr. Hill and stated that she did qualify. County Attorney Hill stated that the acreage requirement for RR is explicit and the road frontage that Ms. Diamond: referred to deals with the residential definition. Vice Chairman Worsley stated that the rezoning request that the Board previously did in 2023, had conditions in line with it, and they have not been met. Ms. Diamond stated that was not true either and the stipulation was tol build a 6ft fence ifs shel had the dogs housed on that property line, and they were not. Ms. Diamond stated the dogs are not housed there and there is no structure there housing them. Ms. Diamond stated thati ifs she had al building there and housed them, then she was to build a 6ft privacy fence, not the length of the property, only ifthey were housed there. Mr. Gay stated the stipulation was where activity would be, and the property is 200ft wide. Chairman King asked ifthere was anyone ini the audience to speak for or against the request. Animal Services Director George Richmond stated there are different levels ofl licenses that the state issues and is something that they did not look into in the past. Director Richmond stated that Meriwether County pays $400 per year tol house 80j plus animals in their kennel. Director Richmond stated there are lower levels, such as a $100 dollar level. Director Richmond stated that ifal breederl has a $100 dollar license, they are only allowed to sell $5,000 dollars a year worth of puppies. Director Richmond stated as al breeder with a $100 dollar license, you are only allowed tol have up to 20: adult dogs. Director Richmond stated that hei is nots sure about the level Ms. Diamond is at, and the state has reported it at the bottom level and might already be exceeding the level of puppies by her state license. Director Richmond stated this may be happening with other kennels, and we need to revisit other approved kennels to look at their level ofl licensing throughout the County. Director. Richmond stated that the last time he inspected Ms. Diamond's kennels were on the left side oft the property, running up and down. Director Richmond asked Ms. Diamond if they were still there. Ms. Diamond stated they were not and the dogs stay in the house now. Director Richmond stated he believed that every approved kennel needed tol bel looked at and every approved breeder to see what type or level of license they have, because the County may be exceeding what the state license allows. Ms. Diamond stated the reason she got the $100 dollar license was she was only approved for 15 dogs, and it didn't make sense to spend more. With no: more comments for or against the request fromi the audience, a motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Collins to come out of the Public Hearing at 6:19 p.m. All were in favor. A  acres on an unpaved road, you qualify for RR and agriculture as well.    motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill based on the information received from Mr. Gay and legal counsel to deny the rezoning request, due to the stipulations for the acreage for the RR. 2. Case #P24-013- - Request from Tricia Shelton to rezone parcel 004 016001-184.48 An motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Vice Chairman Worsley to goi into the Public Hearing at 6:20. All were in favor. Chairman King stated that the applicant would have 20 minutes toj present the request and those signed up for an against it have 20 minutes. Chairman King requested the list ofthose signed up for and against the request. Chairman King stated to the applicant that Commissioner Plant, the representative oft that district, was not in attendance as she became ill. Chairman King stated it was the applicant's decision on whether he would like to move forward tonight or wait until all 15Commissioners were in attendance. Mr. William Valentine of Hillwood stated it was his intention to bel heard, but understood there may be questions, both without her here and about the project in general. County Attorney Hill stated tot the applicant that the Board has the ability to continue the Public Hearing to a certain date and time, so that everyone in the audience also knows when that date and time is certain. County Attorney Hill stated ift the Board closes the Public Hearing, it closes the evidence, and the Board is not allowed to hear anything additional after the fact. Mr. Valentine stated that he would like to present tonight and allow those in attendance to speak for and against. County Attorney Hill explained that each side gets 20 minutes to present, unless the Board votes to allow more time. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Vice Chairman Worsley to allow each side 30 minutes. Director Sharpe stated that Mr. Valentine with Hillwood is in attendance and isi in contract with the applicant, Ms. Shelton to purchase the 184.48 acres. Director Sharpe stated the applicant is asking to rezone the property from RR tol Industrial for the proposed use ofal light industrial logistics warehouse. Director Sharpe stated that there have been a lot ofstudies done on this since the last meeting. Director Sharpe stated that the recommended conditions are as follows: The applicant must use box lighting to prevent the light casting directly on any adjoining properties, The property must be served by the Water and Sewer Authority ofMeriwether County, The owner is responsible for any tap fees for connection to the water and sewer, The owner must provide at their cost to access to the property with driveways from State Route 54, meeting all GDOT recommendations and requirements, Uses oft the property should be limited to those meeting the definition of light industrial from the list in the Meriwether County Code of Ordinances, Appendix A, Article 3, Sec. 3.1., Owners shall comply with all requirements of Appendix A, Article 14, commercial park district, unless other zoning conditions supersede the requirements under this article, The applicant agrees to work with Meriwether County Fire Department to address all fire protection concerns, including, but not limited to, the ingress and egress, for fire apparatus, fire hydrant locations, and accessibility to water supply and fire sprinkler systems, Applicant should also work with Meriwether County Fire Department on emergency plans, fire escape, presence ofHAZMAT materials and other concerns that may be expressed by the Meriwether County Fire Department, Meriwether County Sheriff's Department, and Meriwether County EMS/EMA, and All storm water runoff from the project shall meet all federal state and local rules and requirements. Mr. Gay also stated that he would add the fact that the applicant has to do industrial pre- treatment on the sewers as there have been issues with the current industries and this needs to become ai requirement unless EPD exempts them from doing the industrial pre-treatment. Mr. Gay explained that what the conditions try to do is to mitigate some oft the concerns that have been heard from the citizens in the Planning Commission meeting. Director Sharpe stated that the Planning Commission did not makea decision and deferred it to the Board of Commissioners. Director Sharpe stated the staff recommendation would be to approve the request, according to the standards set forth in Article  The motion was seconded by Commissioner Collins. All were in favor. acres from RR toIf for the proposed use of an industrial warehouse.    14 ofthe Ordinance and screens for the buffers. Director Sharpe stated that they also agree to do what they have to do for GDOT and traffic studies. Director Sharpe stated the applicant can't do that until a: zoning is approved. Director Sharpe stated that Mr. Valentine is in attendance to speak. Chairman King asked what type of requirements are needed for the buffers Director Sharpe stated that the required buffer should consist ofe either ai non-vegetated 500: foot setback, ora 200 foot vegetated setback from any adjoining property lines. A 200ft minimum setback shall consist of'75ft of vegetated buffer area, measured. along the entire portion ofthe property line, abutting said use, and suchl buffer shall extend an additional 125ft in each direction along the common property line. The 75ft vegetated buffer should: meet the planted requirements contained in Sec. 8.3. Director Sharpe stated that Sec. 8.3 is the: screen standard and discusses the method ofeschewing from use from any other by a fence, wall berm, or planted vegetation. Director Sharpe stated that it mentions the plant should consist ofe either trees or shrubs. Walls shall be of masonry construction and ai minimum height of8 8ft and a fence shall be ai minimum height of 8ft and constructed ofs standard fencing materials and methods or chain-link with woven inserts that provide 90% visible blockage. Director Sharpe stated berms should have a minimum height ofs 8ft. Chairman King stated that there may need to be another condition fora a berm due to thel homes int the area. Director Sharpe stated that this area is also listed on the Mr. William Valentine, President ofDevelopment for Hillwood: Mr. Valentine stated that he would like toi introduce Hillwood to begin, because there has been some confusion. Mr. Valentine stated that Hillwood is not at all related to the previous applicant that was on the property and acknowledged that their site plan looks substantially similar to what they offered. Mr. Valentine stated the site plan is a conceptual tool at this point ini this process to develop what the maximum developable area is for thej property, "How much could wel build and how do we plan around, that ifiti is decided tol build less than that and it obviously happens later to allow them to develop the plans more fully. Mr. Valentine stated that Hillwood is based out of Austin, TX and is owned by Ross Perot Jr. Mr. Valentine stated that Hillwood is not a Russian firm at all. Mr. Valentine stated that what they are asking is for rezoning to Industrial, with the intent for a light industrial project, which would be warehousing, distribution, or light assembly. Mr. Valentine stated that is what is shown on the conceptual site plan. Mr. Valentine stated that the reason for asking for the property to be rezoned is to be able to market the property appropriately and be able to bring in at tenant. Mr. Valentine stated that you cannot compete for development projects int the state ofGeorgia unless you are: zoned and once it is zoned, they will bes able to begin the marketing process, working with brokers, the state of Georgia Economic Development, as well as using their own tenant relationships across the country to bring in tenants. Mr. Valentine stated that they recently leased 200,000: sq. ft. in South Carolina, based solely on ai relationship Hillwood had in another market. Mr. Valentine stated that they did work with stafft to come up with some conditions that would help create a bit more structure around whati is being shown on thej plan, making clear what they are not doing. Mr. Valentine stated they are not doing any heavy industrial, chemical, or heavy nuisance industrial. Mr. Valentine stated that the lighting, buffers, setbacks, and lighting cutoffs are standard, and they do these alot which is successful ini minimizing thei impact on surrounding neighbors. Mr. Valentine stated that he would like to save the remainder ofhis time for answering any questions. Mike Watson, Lone Oak Road: Mr. Mike Watson stated that he lives across from the property inc consideration ofrezoning and thinks iti is a good idea that Hillwood come in and build their warehouses for at tenant. Mr. Watson stated that it will bring in some tax revenue into the County, so individual residents don't have their taxes raised. Mr. Watson stated that from a convenience point, Meriwether County's only access to the interstate system is the northwest corner on Hwy 54 at Exit 28. Mr. Watson stated the area had already been rezoned and has light  Comprehensive Map as a perpetual industrial area, for future use.  Speaking in Favor:    industrial as well as the landfill, and iti is a logical place to rezone. Mr. Watson stated that ifitis built, people will come, and it will provide jobs for people in the County. Mr. Watson asked the Brad Worthy, Lone Oak Road: Mr. Worthy stated that he owns property on Lone Oak Road as well as aj property on Sewell Road. Mr. Worthy stated they are: not road front properties. Mr. Worthy believed Mr. Watson and feels direct access to Interstate 85 would be an ideal place to start the development. Mr. Worthy stated that he rides up: and down the roads every day and Coweta County is booming, and' Troup County is getting built up. Mr. Worthy stated it seems like Meriwether County is getting left behind in the development area. Mr. Worthy stated that it would generate al lot more taxes, as well as jobs, and feels it would be a good place to get development started in the County. Mr. Worthy asked the Board to vote in favor. Karen Watson, Lone Oak Road: Mrs. Watson stated that she is a 27-year resident and lives on Lone Oak Road. Ms. Watson stated this is not newi news and thei industrial commercial growth in the northwest corridor is already underway and has been underway. Ms. Watson stated she is in attendance tonight to ask the Board to vote in approval oft the rezoning ofthe said property: 6221 Lone Oak Road. Ms. Watson stated that KB Autosys is at near completion and is very close to the proposed property. Ms. Watson stated it seemed like the right thing to do and asked Kenneth Murphy, Luthersville: Mr. Kenneth Murphy stated he was there to speak as two hats, one as the Chairman oft the Meriwether County Water & Sewer. Authority, and one as a citizen. Mr. Murphy stated that as Chairman oft the Water & Sewer. Authority, Hillwood contacted them when they first obtained a contract on1 the land and wanted to knowi ift they could supply them with water and sewage. Mr. Murphy advised them that they could, buti it would be at the developers' expense. Mr. Murphy stated this is one of the first projects that the County will not subsidize the water and: sewage for. Mr. Murphy stated this is a good thing because it will not cost the the Water & Sewer Authority, or the taxpayers any money, and all the expenses will be thei responsibility ofHillwood. Mr. Murphy stated that water treatment will ber required, as well as ai recovery fee for future expansion as capacity is used, Mr. Murphy stated that asac citizen of Meriwether County, Meriwether County is aj poor County with no tax dollars. Mr. Murphy stated that everyone wants to complain about the water and roads and thisi isag good opportunity for the County tol have a good taxi income from taxing this proposed property. Mr. Murphy stated this is not an IDA project and therefore there will not be any subsidies on tax release and sO forth and all ofit would be money that will directly come tol Meriwether County. Mr. Murphy stated that money is strongly needed Lisa Davis, Lone Oak: Ms. Davis stated she is a 52-year resident of Meriwether County, where her father was the Mayor as well as a City Councilman. Ms. Davis stated they grew up where it was peaceful and quite and she wasn't afraid tol be out after dark. Ms. Davis stated they could get out ont the sidewalks, play and ride, and didn't have to worry about who was around. Ms. Davis stated they could cross the street and go down to the crossroads, and now you can't even cross the street half the time. Ms. Davis stated there are strangers around the crossroads they don't know and people they don't know. Ms. Davis stated a few miles down the road there is an industrial park, alreadyjoined by a landfill, and now another plant. Ms. Davis stated these people are coming here to bring in something that is going to bring ini more traffic, noise, disturbances, vagrancy, and crime. Ms. Davis stated she finds it terribly suspicious that these people continue to say they don't know who or what they are leasing to. Ms. Davis stated she doesn't see that as a good sign. Ms. Davis stated this also means that our property values will go down. Ms. Davis stated that some people that lived close to it a couple ofs years ago were against all this, and now they are for it. Ms. Davis stated that all she can guess was they are going to sell and make al bunch of money, which is no skin off their backs. Ms. Davis stated this is our home and the rest of us are just stuck with all the negative fallout this is going tol bring upon us. Ms. Davis stated ifthis is already a done deal and has been devised under the table, behind our backs, ifs you don't live in Lone Oak it doesn't affect your property values or way ofl life, and she  Board to consider voting in approval ofthe rezoning request.  the Board for vote of approval.  and urged thel Board to vote in favor of the request.  Opposed:    guesses it doesn'tmatter to you. Ms. Davis stated that she would ask the proposal to rezone to Kodi Forbus, 6899 Forrest Road, Lone Oak: Mrs. Forbus stated that she has to state first, that she believes that we serve a sovereign God and believes that the outcome ofthis will be his good and perfect plan. Ms. Forbus stated she also believes that He gives us wisdom and brains to make good decisions. Ms. Forbus stated she lives at 6899 Forrest Road and is on Council in Lone Oak. Ms. Forbus stated that on behalf of the citizens and her family, she asked the Board tod deny the request for this property to become industrial. Ms. Forbus stated that yes, we'd known for a long time that the interstate area was industrial, but this property, tol her knowledge, had not until very recently been considered for industrial use. Ms. Forbus stated that she thinks Lone Oak is the perfect place for growth, but asks for curb appeal in what is brought in. Ms. Forbus stated this is not going to bring that. Ms. Forbus stated she thinks the area has the potential for some commercial property and thinks that can be something that brings great revenue to the County, without having to bring in these warehouses. Ms. Forbus stated that her kids like to play int the creek, catching crawfish, att the back oft the property and that is just a hop, skip, and jump from where this warehouse will be. Ms. Forbus stated she has a great vision for the area and knows the Board is probably under a lot of pressure. Ms. Forbus stated that she knows that sitting in thel Board members' seats, it is very hard to please everybody. Ms. Forbus stated that she asked with integrity that the Board consider the people that live in the area, and what it will do for them, and maybe re-envision the area for residential growth and commercial growth, but not this. Ms. Warren Gray, 6885 Forrest Road: Mr. Gray stated that in some point in time, and he knows the Board did the future land use plan and adopted it, there has to be a stopping point somewhere. Mr. Gray stated the IDA is already looking at other property beside Allen Lee Memorial Church. Mr. Gray stated that it would ruin everything for us. Mr. Gray stated iti isa small town that all love one another, know each other, and ift this just keeps going, there will be four lanes through the area. Mr. Gray stated that he knows that the County hired and spent a lot ofmoney on a land-use plan to make more money, but there is more to it than money. Mr. Gray stated that he is familiar with land use plans, and they do the best they can, but they don't get out and feel the community. Mr. Gray stated that however the Board votes tonight, hoping that the Board votes no, there is al lot involved in this and a lot for Meriwether County to take on this project. Mr. Gray stated that at some point there will need to be outside resources brought in to help infrastructure and roads. Mr. Gray asked ift they were going to go out and check how high the berm is, and ift that would be a requirement. Mr. Gray asked if we are going out there to check that the 75ft vegetative bufferi is there and that the building is 500ft ifthey don't leavea vegetative buffer. Mr. Gray stated this is a lot and is kind ofnew ground for Meriwether County. Mr. Gray stated that ift the vote is yes, and he doesn't wanti it tol be, let's make sure we make them do everything that is supposed to be done. Mr. Gray stated don't make it easy and don't give Mallory Linch, 6878 Forrest Road: Ms. Linch stated that she has been a resident of Meriwether County for 4 years. Ms. Linch stated she and her family had grown up there, and it means a lot to her sentimentally. Ms. Linch stated that she was a teacher for 12 years with experience in Coweta County, Fayette County, and Meriwether County. Ms. Linch stated that she has defended Meriwether County fori its unfortunate bad reputation, within the school system and all aspects. Ms. Linch stated that when she was employed in Meriwether County, any ofthe professional training that she attended, she knows they are trying to move in the right direction. Ms. Linch stated she knows the County is trying to move ini the right direction, but as someone who is trying to raise her young family here, she doesn't want to see it go full-on industrial towards her town. Ms. Linch stated that she knows it will be heavier going towards the interstate, but this is very much closer and right to the heart of the town. Ms. Linch stated that is why shei is disheartened and worried and knows a lot ofyounger people in their 20s and 30s that  industrial be denied.  Forbus stated: not in our backyards, please.  them something.    are wanting to move to Meriwether County, because they can't afford to live in neighboring counties. Ms. Linch stated there are al lot ofnew houses being built that are beautiful in the area ofLone Oak and doesn't believe people will continue to want to move there ifs something like this is SO close. Ms. Linch stated that from a sentimental and personal place, she really needed to come and let her voice be heard, because this is her future, and she doesn't want to move. Ms. Linch stated she is not going to get bought out and sell and wants to stay in Meriwether County because she loves it and Lone Oak and asked that the Board to please consider her request and Jordan Linch, 6878 Forrest Road: Mr. Linch stated that he is opposed for several different reasons. Mr. Linch stated he heard a lot ofthe stipulations about the development itself. Mr. Linch stated he has lived in Lone Oak for 4 years and lived in the MorelandLuthersville area his entire life. Mr. Linch asked ifthere was ai traffic impact analysis, because anytime there is traffic, summertime, holidays, interstate breakdowns, we are) just overrun with traffic. Mr.Linch stated we are opening a warehouse on Hwy 54 and ifyou think about the traffic coming down Hwy 27, through. Luthersville, ift the interstate shuts down, you can't make ai right hand turn onto Hwy 54. Mr. Linch stated that there has got to be a buffer as far as residential to industrial. Mr. Linch stated that Hillwood is coming to Meriwether County because right now Coweta County has opposed their first development, at the corner ofHwy 16and Gordon Road, due to its encroachment into residential area. Mr. Linch stated that Hillwood has a second proposed sitei in Coweta, which is right now being opposed due to its encroachment into residential area. Mr. Linch stated that Meriwether has got to grow, and development at the interstate is the only way iti is going to grow, but we. have to find a way tol keep it from coming into a residential area, which is right now what it is doing. Mr. Linch stated there is a lot of new construction growth and al lot ofr new families moving into the Lone Oak area. Mr. Linch stated that Tenney Nelson Road and Goldmine Road have a lot of new construction and houses. Mr. Linch stated if we move industrial into those residential areas, all it is going to do is run all the new families out and kill the residential growth in that area and then it will become an industrial wasteland. Mr. Linch stated that he works in an industry everyday doing industrial maintenance on forklifts, robotics automation, and his company also offers inner logistics and logistics solutions. Mr. Linch stated that his team put together, today, and a spec warehouse ofwhat they are asking for, is going to see from 400 - 800 trucks per day. Mr. Linch stated ai traffic analysis is very important and needed because right now, you can't get offt the interstate at 4:00 to 5:00 in the afternoon because it is an absolute disaster. Mr. Linch stated then you have spring break traffic Scott Amerson, Lone Oak Tree Farm: Mr. Amerson stated he is a council member and therefore doesn't think that it is fair that he gives an opinion and isj just going to give his thoughts. Mr. Amerson stated he is not a public speaker or politician but would relay some of the questions he has been asked by citizens and let the Board think about those as they are making their plans and decisions. Mr. Amerson stated, Mr. Valentine came up and spoke and said his plan was not related to the company that did this before, although it is exactly the same plan. Mr. Amerson stated he also said it is a conceptual plan, which is telling you whatever that piece of paper says doesn't mean anything and could completely be different from every bit of that, because it isj just a conceptual plan. Mr. Amerson stated that the plans they saw in last week's planning meeting, unless they cleaned up, showed 1000 trucks a day, 500 parking spaces, and all this stuff going in and out. Mr. Amerson asked ift there are any kind of studies by the DOT and could the roads even handle it as the roads are falling apart in Lone Oak right now and thel DOT is not fixing them. Mr. Amerson stated they have called the DOT, and they aren't doing anything to them. Mr. Amerson stated there is a culvert falling in on one of their roads and they have called DOT, and they have done nothing. Mr. Amerson asked ift the EPA had been contacted about the development. Mr. Amerson stated that if we don't know what is being manufactured, put together, or produced, or how many trucks are going in and out, you can't  vote no.  and then adding 4 to 8 hundred trucks will be an absolute nightmare.    really do an EPA study to say how it is going to affect the environment. Mr. Amerson stated if there is one truck a day, it doesn'treally affect the environment. However, ifthere are 1000, there is al lot more pollution. Mr. Amerson stated that without knowing that information, there is no way toj possibly make that decision. Mr. Amerson stated this has been run out of Coweta County in two different sites already and has also been run out of Commerce as well stating they didn'tl have enough information and denied the request. Mr. Amerson stated that he would applaud Meriwether County for seeking to grow, as it needs to,, just not in Lone Oak. Mr. Amerson stated in that corner oft the County there is an industrial area and stated to fix the problems we have there and make it grow there. Mr. Amerson stated this is where it was originally planned and ifn not feasible to fix that area, then ask the company ift they are willing to come in and pay for the infrastructure to make all this happen and pay fori it sO Meriwether County doesn't have to come out of pocket. Mr. Amerson stated they'd be just as willing to pay fori iton the highway and wanted to know what the difference is, ifthey have toj put inj pipes and sewer. Mr. Amerson asked what is the difference? Mr. Amerson stated that he needed to speak up for the City ofLone Oak, as they are affected by every bit ofthis. Mr. Amerson stated they have been there for 8 years and watched it all change and start to grow and come this way. Mr. Amerson stated that for a County that doesn'thave a lot of money or al lot of residents, they sure buy a lot ofl land along that road. Mr. Amerson stated that all the land along the road for the IDA is needed to grow, but since the citizens ofLone Oak are affected by it, they should probably be included in some oft the planning ofit and maybe even some of the decision-making. Mr. Amerson stated that it is not fair fort them to have it in their backyard if we don't even know what the hell it is going to be, or what the plan is. Mr. Amerson stated that he just learned today that there is a plan for 400 acres right outside his front door and beside the Allen Lee Memorial Church. Mr. Amerson stated it is in the minutes, and they are not even informed oft these things, which is not fair. Mr. Amerson stated that ifN Meriwether County wants them to work and be in good cooperation, let's shake hands and work together. Mr. Amerson stated that they want to do that and have been trying to do that, but to do that they need tol know what is going on as well and be informed ofv what's happening. Mr. Amerson stated that as far as taxes and impact fees, Lone Oak needs to be included in that as well, because it will not just affect the County. Mr. Amerson stated that all ofLone Oaks citizens would be affected by this and thought those that thought they were moving to the country will now have a warehouse across the street from their house. Mr. Amerson stated there is an impact. However, they are not getting the benefit ofthe impact fees. Mr. Amerson stated road maintenance, upgrades, lighting and those things is a plan, but ifthese companies can come in and build the infrastructure and not make Meriwether County pay fori it, why would it not be just as feasible, since we have a water system, for that company to come in and build their water system and tie them into the sewer system from Coweta or whoever is going to do it, and we all get a benefit from it. Mr. Amerson stated that it almost looks as ifit is aj plan to run Lone Oak out of business as a city altogether and just take it over as an industrial park. Mr. Amerson stated there is a lot ofhistory there, and it is not right, and he doesn't believe that because ofthe historical side ofit, that anyone would want to get rid oft the Lone Oak name or the Lone Oak City. Mr. Amerson stated that for the Code Enforcement side, building bigger berms. Mr. Amerson stated that he lives just beside the RVI Maintenance Facility, but Code enforcement, when they purchased it, wasn't there. Mr. Amerson stated that they said when he moved in there, that there would be an 8ft vegetation barrier and the gentleman was toj plant trees, and they had to be at 8ft by the end oftwo years. Mr. Amerson stated it is 8 years later and there isn't ai tree there. Mr. Amerson stated the maps change all the time, and they are not made aware ofit and need to be part of that planning as well. Sonia Amerson, Mayor of] Lone Oak: Mayor Amerson stated that she is not there to approve or disapprove, but she is getting a lot ofquestions and many phone calls from people wanting to    know about the rezoning and the plans ofthe County. Mayor Amerson stated they feel as ifthey are not included, and shei is aj part-time employee. Mayor. Amerson stated she does al lot ofher time with the City stuff, but there has to be a way for the County to include the Cities, ifthey are affected, notj just Lone Oak. Mayor Amerson stated that we know the growth is coming and we want and needi it.. A lot of people stop inl Meriwether County, but the way they see it, whoever is coming up and looking at these plants, iti is awful to look int the minutes from June and to see it right across from herl house. Mayor Amerson stated that they want tol know and to include the cities in whatever project it is, you need to include the cities in this decision-making. Debbie Nelson, 2125' Tenney Nelson Road: Ms. Nelson stated that she feels ai traffic study is needed where we don't find ourselves in a situation where we've been a year and a half, two years, with the corridor, trying to get in a turning lane. Ms. Nelson stated that she is concerned about employees and whether the employees have experience, and whether they are trained and ready to go out and doi inspections and fire reports, as shel knows we are understaffed. Ms. Nelson stated that she wanted to talk about the quality ofl life and that we have all run here in high hopes ofnot being in traffic and avoiding the areas they previously lived. Ms. Nelson stated that there is aj problem with trucks going down Forrest Road, and there is a sign there, but there are not enough police to go out and make sure they are not going down through there. Ms. Nelson stated they see ite every day in their community to the point that it is even backed up sO far down Forrest Road, that it backs up from the Coweta stop sign into Meriwether County. Ms. Nelson stated that lastly she would liket to talk about revenue and really wants a good industry. Ms. Nelson stated she feels there are a lot of great things going on and feels the Board is doing a lot of great things and wanted to commend them for that. Ms. Nelson asked what the tax revenue isr really going to be, because the people that come here have nowhere to go and eat, nowhere to bel housed, which is tax revenue, no gas stations, which is revenue. Ms. Nelson stated that whoever comes ini is going tol bring in additional revenue, instead ofjust taxes. Ms. Nelson stated that last year the county took in around $990,000 dollars ini industrial tax revenue, which was wiped out with a cost for what had to be spent on putting in the driveway and water at D&B. Ms. Nelson stated that money comes from the citizens, and there is a lack oft trust, not in the Board, but what they are: not seeing or hearing. Ms. Nelson stated that Lone Oak should ofbeen included in that, and should have had a voice, say and plan in it. Ms. Nelson stated that she feels what should be done should be what isi int the best interest ofall the public. Ms. Nelson stated that ifthet tax revenue is going to be $220,000 divided between 20,000 people, iti is not enough tor make a difference to what's going there. Ms. Nelson stated to look at the people that are impacted and thej people ofLone Oak have something that the County should be proud of, which isar neighborhood, friendships, a church, and people who believe in God and want to do the right things. Ms. Nelson asked that the Board consider those facts in lieu ofmaking the decision and Russell Arrington, 54101 Lone Oak] Road: Mr. Arrington stated that he is al builder and has to goi in all the time and fix houses where trucks vibrate the road, cracking houses, and when you have somebody that spends $500,000 of their hard-earned money, they are not rich. Mr. Arrington stated that. Jason is a friend ofhis, and he buys hay from him and is not against him, but what he can say is when they tell you they want to buy property on the other side ofthe road, they say they are going to keep it towards thei interstate. Mr. Arrington stated that he just built Mr. Lewis al house and he spent almost $1 million dollars, and they are at his back door. Mr. Arrington stated thel buffer is not going to do anything. Mr. Arrington asked, "what are they going to do, furnish him with earplugs and give him sunglasses at night?" Mr. Arrington stated  thanked thel Board forl hearing her out.    he doesn't care what he does, but when those trucks come down the roads, they are going to crack houses and there will need to be maintenance people there. Mr. Arrington stated that if they got enough money toj pay somebody $12 million dollars for 180 acres, they have got enough money tol buy all the citizens out and relocate them somewhere else they can name Lone Oak. Mr. Arrington stated it is about money and ift they have enough money, they are going to persuade people. Mr. Arrington stated that he doesn't have that kind of money. Mr. Arrington asked what the impact is on them, because right now he could sell his home for $1 million dollars, but when thatj joker is built on anybody's property, his property goes down, and he can't even get what he paid fori it. Mr. Arrington stated ifthey are going to do this, they need to dig down in their pockets and say here, let me give you! $2 million to relocate and build another Lone Oak. Mr. Arrington stated ift they want to do that, he is with it, but ifthey're not willing to buy, he is against it, because it is not going to stop at. Jason's it is going on because they are already planning. Mr. Arrington stated when they get their foot in the door, that is just like marijuana int the state, they put 3% in it, and now you can buy. joints over the counter, well that they havej just got their foot in the door, and they are going to start manufacturing. Mr. Arrington asked the Board to think about iti really heavily because oft the people's places there, and speaking ofthe buffer, ift they are going to do that, they need to make sure the citizens' land value doesn'tgo down. Mr. Arrington stated there is no way the Board can do that, and it is up to William Valentine, President of] Development for Hillwood: Mr. Valentine thanked all the citizens who came out and stated that this is their community, and he understands there are concerns about what they are planning to build and develop. Mr. Valentine stated that Hillwood strives to be consistent with the community and what to meet and what they want, sO when conditions are offered on what they want to see and what they don't want to see, they work with them. Mr. Valentine stated that he tried working very hard with Coweta County and was going to build a new: road and they wrote a speech and didn't want tol hear any ofit, just wanted to shoot it down. Mr. Valentine stated they didn't want industrial and didn't want the tax base. Mr. Valentine stated he felt Meriwether County wanted a little different and that's why they have the comp plan that they do. Mr. Valentine stated that is why there is industrial zoned to the south of us, across the street from us and what not. Mr. Valentine stated it is part of what has brought him here, because it seemed that Meriwether wanted to see this type of development. Mr. Valentine wanted to address some ofthe questions. Mr. Valentine stated that they are paying for infrastructure and are paying to run about al halfofai mile ofs sewer to connect into the rest oft the current Meriwether County sewer system. Mr. Valentine stated there were conditions discussed and agreed upon. Mr. Valentine stated that the staff proposed them, and they agreed to them. Mr. Valentine stated this wasn't a deal that was cut, it was, "this is what you need if you are going to build this here." Mr. Valentine stated they agreed and said it was fine, they could live with that. Mr. Valentine stated there were concerns that this was a conceptual plan and, ifit is needed, they would say that this is the maximum size ofa project they would build. He would agree to that right now. Mr. Valentine stated that ifhe needed to add that to get to ayes, he would offer that. Mr. Valentine stated the conceptual plan. While hel keeps hearing there is not enough information, there is actually a lot ofinformation on that plan, and Meriwether County's own zoning codes, and what is to be allowed in industrial areas. Mr. Valentine stated they have abided by that, and, beyond that, they don't have a tenant right now to say any more of what's going tol happen. Mr. Valentine stated that as he stated at the Planning Commission meeting, you  inflation when that building is put there.  Rebuttal:    can't tell who isi inside a lot ofthese industrial buildings, or what they are doing. Mr. Valentine stated that it is a condition oft the zoning to complete a traffic analysis or DRI, which they are required to abide by all the conditions developed by Georgia DOT and the Regional Commission. Mr. Valentine stated that will incur costs, and they are prepared to do that. Mr. Valentine stated that the traffic impact would be the least significant impact, considering how close this site is to I-85. Mr. Valentine states he doesn't know any other large industrial site that could be used on Hwy 54 that won't impact traffic. Mr. Valentine stated it would impact traffic, but it couldn't be much closer to I-85. Mr. Valentine stated they are asking for land use, consistent with the comp. plan, and that which is zoned around them. Mr. Valentine stated that Hillwood prides itself on developing infrastructure that drives the economy. Mr. Valentin stated they have built 220 million feet ofindustrial buildings across the nation, including 15 million in the Southeast. Mr. Valentine stated that is a lot ofbusinesses and a lot of employees that get put to work and al lot oftax dollars that come into those jurisdictions. Mr. Valentine stated it is worth noting that industry asks nothing ofthe schools, very little oft the police and fire department, and generally, on a dollar for dollar basis, very little oft the water and sewer systems. Mr. Valentine stated that they do believe this project upon completion would employ somewhere around 800 to 1200 people and ifthis property cannot be rezoned, considering it is consistent with the comp plan, considering the surrounding of other industrial uses, he is not sure what property Meriwether County wants to rezone for outside development and outside investment. Mr. Valentine asked for a yes, but ift there is still not enough information, he would ask fora continuation. Commissioner Threadgill asked Mr. Valentine how many states oft the 220 million industrial feet are located. Mr. Valentine stated 20. Commissioner Threadgill asked what type of industries he had seen go into those buildings, because he knows that he has to market to those areas to get those individuals to come in. Mr. Valentine states that they prefer distribution warehouses and light assembly. Mr. Valentine stated that heavy manufacturing is more difficult for them because it is more costly, and they don't often pay rent, and there are lots ofeconomic reasons that it is less attractive to them. Mr. Valentine stated they are doing a medium intensity manufacturer in South Carolina right now. Mr. Valentine stated that sometimes it is about the user and a good credit user that comes with jobs and is ready to do a deal. Commissioner Threadgill asked ifthere were any unsuccessful stories in any of these industries. Mr. Valentine stated that most of the areas they are in welcome industrial and other industries like to collocate because they want to bet together. Mr. Valentine stated that he couldn't think of any unsuccessful projects. Mr. Gay asked ifMr. Valentine had had a chance to review 9 additional conditions and ifthey had, would they be willing to accept them? Mr. Valentine stated that he has reviewed those as well as his civil engineer, and they are prepared to accept those conditions. Charlene. Arrington, 5410 Lone Oak Road: Ms. Arrington stated that they moved from Coweta County, and she worked for their school system and watched it grow from when Shoney's was the main restaurant and now the crime is unbearable. Ms. Arrington stated that they moved from Coweta County 4 years ago and how they found out about this today was from another person. Ms. Arrington stated that she lives in the City ofLone Oak and had no idea that their neighbor was about to put his property under commercial. Ms. Arrington stated she has no problem with that but, as a citizen ofLone Oak, they should know when something like that happens. Ms. Arrington asked what happened to family values, as all she is hearing tonight is about money, and it is not always about money. Ms. Arrington stated that is why you hear about all these families breaking up because people are taking it from them, and they can't sit back and let that happen. Ms. Arrington stated they moved there because they love the little City ofLone    Oak, but they didn't hear about anything, andi ifthey hadn't! heard about it today, next thing they knew, they could have an industrial building next to their house. Ms. Arrington stated that they needed tol know those things. Ms. Arrington stated they arei in the dark and asked where the value off family is at. Ms. Arrington stated that is what is wrong with this world today. Ms. Arrington stated that we don'thave family value and are letting people come in with money and take that and that is the problem. Ms. Arrington stated that we: needed to stand firm and stand for what we believe in, and it is being taken from us, and they didn't even know that was going to happen, until she was at a closing and the real estate agent told them. Ms. Arrington stated it is easy for some to say that they will sell it for $2 million dollars, but her family is there, and her family is way more important to her than money. Ms. Arrington stated that as a citizen of Meriwether County she needed tol know these things, and asked the Board ifthey would like someone to build next to them like that, ifthey had their family there. Ms. Arrington stated that she doesn't care about the $2 million dollars, and you can't take it with you when you go. Ms. Arrington stated that her family means more to her, and she is opposed and, like her husband stated, ift the developer wants to come in and buy all oft them out, don't come in andj just nitpick and then build up: an industry. Ms. Arrington stated that she has a $650,000 dollar home that they built and: spent their life savings on that is going to be taken from her if that building is built. Ms. Arrington stated asked thel Board where their family value is at. Sonya Amerson, Lone Oak Mayor: Mayor Amerson stated that with all the projects, the cities and areas where those projects are going to be, the people in the area need to know. Mayor Amerson stated that she just found out about the proposed area across from her house by reading minutes from June, which isj just awful. Mayor Amerson stated that she didn't know where the Board members lived, but she is sure they will be more careful ifitt touches the city limits. Mayor Amerson stated one of the projects is less than ai mile away and one oft them is inside the city limits. Mayor Amerson stated that we all want to live better, and she moved from Atlanta to Lone Oak, and now shei is going to have to move farther away. Mayor Amerson stated she didn't Kody Forbus, Lone Oak: Ms. Forbus stated that she is a mother and a former teacher and if anyone has ever coached or had children, it's not one size fits all for every child, it's not one size fits all for every County, and wants the Board to consider what Lone Oak and Meriwether County havet to offer. Ms. Forbus stated that they have sO much to offer, and it doesn't have to be industrial. Ms. Forbus asked thel Board to re-imagine this and knows some ofthe members have their minds made up and toj please reconsider, because there is a better way and this would be an extreme eyesore. Ms. Forbus stated she considers Lone Oak the gateway to Meriwether County, Vice Chairman Adam Worsley asked staffi ift the proper advertising was done as well as int the legal organ. Director Sharpe stated that a sign was posted on the site, it was advertised in the paper, and all adjoining property owners and property owners across the street did receive letters. County Attorney Hill stated that in the Ordinance it does state that any written petition received by the County needed to be added toi the record. Commissioner Threadgill stated that before thel Public Hearing ended, hel had some concerns ast this was a big ordeal and wanted to set a date for a continuance, to have discussion sO this could be delved into deeper. Commissioner Threadgill stated that ifthe Public Hearing is ended then it will have to be re- advertised, but ifd continued, thel Board could come back at a set date for next month and bring it back. Commissioner Threadgill stated this allows the Board more time to look further into it, before closing the Public Hearing and making a complete decision. County Attorney Hill stated  know but for the Board to think about it.  and it has sO much charm.    that the Board could also suspend the rule and allow additional evidence ifti the Public Hearing is not closed. Vice Chairman Worsley stated he agreed because this was a1 tremendous opportunity as well as at tremendous risk and issues that havel been brought up, more information is needed to make the best accurate decision for the County and citizens. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill to continue the Public Hearing to October 7, 2024, at 6:00 p.m. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Collins. All were in favor. Chairman King announced the continuation date was set for Monday, October 7,2 2024, at 6:00 p.m. Chairman King stated that someone made a comment that thel Board had made up their mind, and he assured them that there were a lot ofthings he found out that he didn't know and had al lot of questions and concerns his self. Commissioner Threadgill stated that there were about three people that stated that the Board had their minds up. Commissioner Threadgill stated they didn't, and it was not possible with the amount ofinformation that has come up. Chairman King stated that there is a process, and hei is only notified after it goes through the Planning Commission. Chairman King stated that it is not the case that the Commissioners have made up his mind and that is not the 3. Case #P24-014-1 Request from Quercus for al Business Alcohol License Iocated at An motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded' by Vice Chairman Worsley to go into the Public Hearing at 7:29 p.m. All were in favor. Director Sharpe stated that Quercus Farms, also known as Still Acorn, LLCi is coming before the Board to request an alcohol license for ai restaurant they have at the farm. Director Sharpe stated the restaurant is named Uberto after the owner's father-in-law. Director Sharpe stated that the applicant's attorney and licensee are both in attendance and the staffhave all the proper paperwork needed for the background checks, payments, and there is a business license inj place. Mr. Kyle Baker, attorney for the applicant, passed out an information packet to the Board. Attorney Baker stated that this request is fort the restaurant on the property of Quercus Farms. Attorney Baker stated that this property has beeni ini the community for quite some time and was founded in. 1977.Attorey Baker stated thati initially it was a fully functional ranch that bred cattle, quarter horses, Scottish terriers and served as a hunting reserve. Mr. Baker stated that hospitality is al big focus of what the business will bej putting together. Attorney Baker stated that Quercus offers a complete farm to table dining experience that focuses on regenerative farming, quality, sustainability, locally sourced ingredients, and that is driven in large part by the owners. Attorney Baker stated that Ryan is the chefwhol has significant experience with an award-winning Atlanta restaurant, the Staple House, and is very well credentialed and ani impressive chef.. Attorney Baker stated that lodging on the property will consist of 4 suites or cottages, with an emphasis on wellness. Attorney Baker stated the lodges incorporate elements such as organic mattresses, non-toxic finishes, circadian lighting, Foster health and healing, and gorgeous outdoor seating areas with stone fireplaces. Attorney Baker stated that activities would include fishing, equestrian, kayaking, field sports, gardening, garden tours, cycling, yoga, and rucking. Attorney Baker stated that there is a great emphasis on responsible sales and the business is emphasizing policies and procedures to make sure sales are going to be responsible, including an I.D. everybody policy and no sales to any individual who is under 21 years of age or a minor. Attorney Baker stated ai minor is not allowed to touch alcohol and no one is allowed to give a minor alcohol, which is made clear that an adult that brings a minor is not allowed to give them alcohol while they are at the property. Employees are not: allowed toj provide alcohol to anyone who appears to be intoxicated. Alcohol can't be  case, at least from his heart. 139 Oak LeafLane, Gay, Ga.    removed from the premises and taken somewhere else and, similarly, alcohol is not allowed to be brought ini from somewhere else onto the property. Attorney Baker stated that this will be enforced by the training all employees will have to go through. Attorney Baker stated all employees must be trained and certified with the Georgia approved responsible alcohol sales and service vendor, RAS Class, prior to getting to work. They will be re-certified on a yearly basis and also must review and sign Quercus' alcohol policy, which he has included in the presentation. Chairman King asked ifthe restaurant would be open to the public orj just the guests. Mr. Angelenas stated that they were not opened yet but hoped to be open to the guests by the end of September. Mr. Angelenas stated that they eventually hoped to be open to the public and not just the guests. With no one speaking in favor ori in opposition of the request, a motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Collins to close the Public Hearing at 7:36 p.m. All were in favor. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Collins to approve the alcohol license. All were in favor. 4. Agenda was amended to remove Ordinance Amendment 2024-06: Article 7- Zoning District Standards, Sec. 7.2. Appearance standards, Type IV MHP Only RoofPitch and Utility  Meter. None  XI. APPOINTMENIS XII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS  1. Approve Ordinance 2024-03-4 Article I, Section 2.2- Change Commissioners' County Clerk Allyson Stephens stated that at the last meeting there was ai request by the Board to change the meeting times for the Board of Commissioners to the first Monday oft the month at 6:00 p.m. and the fourth Tuesday oft the month to remain at 6:00 p.m. County Clerk Stephens stated this has been reviewed" by the Attorney and would like to get the Ordinance change approved, allowing the Chair to sign and the Clerk to attest. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Vice Chairman Worsley to approve the amendment Mr. Gay stated that last week Mr. Nash came and completed the bird's eye view. Mr. Gay stated he spoke to him on Friday and spoke tol him again this morning, and he will have a report any day. Mr. Gay stated that staffhad been working on a couple of proposals for engineers to provide some recommendations not only for the roof, but for remediation, groundwater intrusion, and HVAC upgrades and feel all ofthose things could be done as a package. Mr. Gay stated he had not been able to catch back up with the architect that looked at the roof. Mr. Gay stated he did get back int touch with Principle Construction and stated that they will be coming back to look at any warranty issues there are on the roof, and complete those. Mr. Gay stated that as soon as he received the information from Mr. Nash, he will have a report for the Board from the fly over. Chairman King stated it might be a good idea to get some pictures, as Mr. Nash pointed out to him that it should ofbeen addressed when Principle went up there before. Chairman King stated that you can tell it is old and that water is running right in there, and whoever did the work before and how that got overlooked, we want to make sure ifthose two or  Meeting Times  to the Ordinance and allow the Chair to sign. All were in favor.  2. Update on Courthouse    three items, ifthey should have fallen underneath their scope of work, that they look at it while they are at the Courthouse. Mr. Gay stated that we should have Mr. Nash's report before Principle comes back. Mr. Gay stated that the report would help when trying to get an idea ofall that needs tol be done because before, staff didn't really have specifications, and a bid was sent out on what the company would do. Mr. Gay stated that what staffis wanting to do is be sure that there is no more water coming in from the dome, roof, or anywhere. Mr. Gay stated that once proposals and specifications come in, staff can write the RFP inhouse. Mr. Gay stated he did talk to an engineering group today and Asst. Administrator Cole has been working on a scope ofwork. Mr. Gay stated he is anxious to see the pictures Mr. Nash took and will send the Board the report as it becomes available. Chairman King stated he realizes this is aj process, but it has been talked about for SO long, and hopes this is not something we are waiting for an RFP, and then paper, and then in December we are telling everybody Merry Christmas. We are hoping to have an answer by January. Mr. Gay stated staffhoped to have answers long before December. Mr. Gay stated that staff did put it together and asked that an architect look at it. Mr. Gay stated that he was not available that day and had COVID. Mr. Gay stated the architect came back with some different things, and hel has tried to call him two or three times and hasn't been able to speak with him yet. Vice Chairman Worsley stated that at this time, it is still unknown as to the root cause of water getting into the building. Vice Chairman Worsley asked who the person was that was going to give us the answer to how water is getting into the building and stated that we don't have that yet. Mr. Gay stated that we don't have that yet, and there are multiple problems with the water coming from multiple locations. Mr. Gay stated that water is coming from the dome, probably down through the opening of the dome, and may have it near the parapet walls coming in, and there is some groundwater intrusion. Mr. Gay stated that there needs to be somebody to come in and say this is what is wrong. Commissioner Threadgill left the room at 7:43 p.m. Vice Chairman Worsley stated that was right and asked what the Board needed to do to get that done. Mr. Gay stated that he will get the information out and get it back to the Board. Commissioner Collins suggested reaching out to a couple of other counties to see who they use. Commissioner Threadgill came back to the meeting at 7:44 p.m. Vice Chairman Worsley stated that staff has reached out to engineers to get a firm to come out and look at it and can't get an answer or ac call back, or a date set. Vice Chairman Worsley stated that is why he is confused. Mr. Gay stated that he had reached out to an engineering firm, Asst. Administrator Cole has reached out to an engineering firm, and what he would like to do is get one ofthem down to the Courthouse and get information on what needs to be done. Mr. Gay stated that the 3. Update on Grant from the Rachel Ray Foundation in partnership with the. Atlanta Director George Richmond addressed this topic in his Department Head comments. Confirmation of] Moratorium for Section 32-21 - Waiver to. Animal Limitations County Clerk Stephens stated that at the Board's previous meeting they approved the Moratorium for 90 days from the date of August 14th. Clerk Stephens stated that she has produced the document that needs to be signed by all the Board members, confirming the Moratorium for Section 32-21 - Waiver to Animal Limitations from August 12,2024, until Discussion of Ordinance. Amendment 2024-04-C Chapter 2, Article II, Section 2-36-to Finance Director John Gorton stated that in the absence of the County Administrator, and with the County Clerk being an appointed position, staffwould recommend that the County Clerk be acounter signer along with the Finance Director. John Gorton, Chairman Gene King, and Vice Chairman Adam Worsley. Finance. Director Gorton stated this would be to countersign all  Courthouse is aj priority and has been a priority.  Humane Society 4.  November 14, 2024. 5. NEW BUSINESS  allow the County Clerk to countersign checks.    checks with one oft the signatures, int the absence ofthe County Administrator. Chairman King asked ifthe Chairman needed to come in and sign checks anymore. Director Gorton stated that if he would like to come in and sign checks he is more than welcome. Chairman King stated that he comes when hei is contacted. Director Gorton stated there are times when there are checks that need to be signed quickly and require a signature that day. Director Gorton stated that his staffruns checks on the 10th and the 25th. Commissioner Threadgill stated that there are currently four people signing checks now and, in the absence, there will still need to be four people. Chairman King stated that he feels that it should still go in that order and in that line, if he can't bet there, it goes to the next person. Director Gorton stated that the way the Ordinance reads is countersign with the Finance Director, ort the Chair, or the Vice Chair. Mr. Gay stated that stafft try to keep it where the Chair and Vice Chair do not always have to come to the office tos sign. Chairman King stated that he appreciates that and is sure Vice Chairman Worsley appreciates that, but he doesn't want it tol be where someone else is always signing and they are note ever looking at anything or being on top ofthings. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Collins to approve Ordinance Amendment 2024-04,  toa allow County Clerk to countersign checks. All were in favor. Allow the County Clerk to countersign payroll checks  6.  Discussion of Ordinance Amendment 2024-05-C Chapter 2, Article. II, Section 2-37- Finance Director Gorton stated that thisi is the section for payroll checks and doesn't know why it iss separate from payables, but that is how the Ordinance reads. A motion was made to approve Ordinance Amendment 2024-05, allowing the County Clerk to countersign payroll checks by Commissioner Collins and seconded by Commissioner Threadgill. All were in favor. 7. Award of] Bids forl Bridge and Culvert Replacement/kepairs Funded by Local Mr. Gay stated that 251 bids were opened on August 23, 2024. Mr. Gay stated that at this point in time there were: some serious concerns with one ofthe companies and their bid bond and needs to check that out before making ai recommendation to the Board. Mr. Gay stated that he spoke with] Mr. Cawthorne today and he wants to go out and make sure some ofthe companies understand the scope oft the work. Mr. Gay stated that one bid received was very low and one bid that is less than $50,000 dollars and the next low bid is $65,000 dollars more. Mr. Gay stated that there is something wrong with that bid. Mr. Gay stated that based upon the analysis of Trammel Road, LL Revell, Tigner, and Magnolia Roads. Mr. Gay stated that the one that they are clear on is the' Trammel Road Bridge and met with Piedmont Paving. Mr. Gay stated that Piedmont Paving was the low bid at $89,800 and the next low bid was $164,960, and they do know what the scope of work is. Mr. Gay stated that staffr recommended at this time the bid for the' Trammel Road Bridge be awarded to Piedmont Paving. Discussion continued and Mr. Gay provided the Board with al bid analysis.. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Worsley to award the Trammel Road Bridge Project to Piedmont Paving in the amount of $89,800 tol be paid out of the LRA account from GDOT. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Amendment to Recordkeeping Services. Agreement & Trust or Custodial County Clerk Stephens stated that Empower sent this Amendment to staff, which is an Amendment to the Recordkeeping Services Agreement & Trust or Custodial Agreement, which isal Float Compensation Disclosure. Clerk Stephens explained that the Plan. Administrators for the Retirement Plan are. herself and Finance Director Gorton. Mr. Gay stated that he would like toi make ai recommendation that this be approved contingent on recommendation by legal and he will review it as well. Attorney Hill stated that he reviewed the document, and it didn't seem that it was making any substantive changes to what is already in place, and looked as ifit was. just clarifying the float compensation from the original document to thè new document. A motion  Roads Assistance (LRA)  Threadgill. All were ini favor.  8.  Agreement: Float Compensation Disclosure (Empower)    was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Collins to approve the Amendment tol Recordkeeping Services Agreement & Trust or Custodial Agreement: Float Compensation Disclosure (Empower) and allow signature by the Plan Administrator. All were Confirmation ofChange Order: KB. Autosys Access 4 Agenda. Amended to. Add Mr. Gay stated that Piedmont Paving was working on the entrance off ofHwy 54 tol KB Autosys. Mr. Gay stated they could not pass the GDOT compaction test, due tol bad soils and wet conditions. Mr. Gay stated that Piedmont brought in a geotechnical firm, Terracon, who went out and made recommendations on solutions to the change order. Mr. Gay stated that involved adding some tri-axle geogrid and including 18 inches ofGAB on the undercut area, which was 120 tons. Mr. Gay stated that the cost was $9,380 dollars, and he went ahead and approved this and the reason he is bringing it back is the Board had a contract that was signed with Piedmont, and it was a change order to the contract. Chairman King asked what the amount was of the change order. Mr. Gay stated the amount oft the change order was $9,380. Chairman King stated that he doesn't doubt that at all, but for records sake, asked if we keep paperwork filed showing where GDOT turned it down. Mr. Gay stated that there is documentation. Mr. Gay stated that he wanted to get this back on the record because he didn't want someone down the road to say the contract was $9,000 dollars more. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Worsley and seconded by Commissioner Threadgill to approve the Change Order for KB Autosys Access for the amount of $9,380, with funding from SPLOST and otheri involved Mr. Theron Gay, Special Projects: Mr. Gay stated that bids were opened on the bridge and culvert projects and had answered quite a few questions a couple of weeks beforehand. Mr. Gay stated staffis working on analyzing those bids. Mr. Gay stated that the courthouse roofwas discussed earlier, and he had talked to a couple of engineering firms and knows what is needed on that. Mr. Gay stated that he met regarding the DFACS building and the gymnasium and will discuss that with the Board in greater detail. Mr. Gay stated for the road patching update, Bill Cawthorne rode with the contractor today and was about to put the proposals together for the road patching per ton and some ofthe roads that were chosen need sO much work that it is very expensive. Mr. Gay stated that his thought was that the staffand the Board look at those, when the estimates come in, and maybe convert the roads that are: really bad into a full depth reclamation project and may need toj pick other roads that need a lesser amount of patching. Mr. Gay stated this would involve serious dollars. Chairman King stated that he would think ift there were going to be serious dollars, we would just go ahead and scratch the road and bring a new road forward and get those going. Mr. Gay stated that is why he wanted to talk to Bill. Mr. Gay stated that it might be able to be repaired with full depth reclamation, because if you patch it, the other areas that you don't patch may fail. Mr. Gay stated that they would have that information prior to the next meeting. Mr. Gay stated it had been very busy, and he attended quite a few personnel meetings and hearings. Mr. Gay stated he met with Director Richmond from Animal control about a couple ofissues. Mr. Gay met with Planning and Zoning Director Sharpe about a couple of ordinance changes. Mr. Gay stated that staffhas done a good. job and been very productive in the last week and what they were all able to get done. Mr. Gay stated that he needed to get some work done at the Courthouse very quickly. Mr. Gay stated that because oft the emergency situation, he authorized C.A. Owens, which is the company that will be replacing the locks and doors at the jail, to come and start making those repairs immediately, Mr. Gay stated that was an emergency situation that staff needed to deal with. Finance Director John Gorton: Director Gorton stated that since the last meeting, staff had reached out to most ofthe contacts and have a checklist ofthings that were in process. Director  in favor. 9.  parties. All were in favor.  XIII. REPORT FROM COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR    Gorton stated that C.A. Owens is estimated to start work on September 30th on the locks and doors at the Jail. Bates Mechanical is estimated to start working within the next two weeks on the jail plumbing. Director Gorton stated that staff did reach out to the contractors and got a lot ofanswers to a lot of outstanding questions. Director Gorton stated the staffi is moving forward with a lot oft things that the Board has asked to be addressed in previous meetings and hope to  have more answers to outstanding questions in the next meeting. XIV. REPORT FROM COUNTY COMMISSIONERS  Commissioner Emmett Collins: Commissioner Collins thanked the staff for all the work they were doing and all the employees. Commissioner Collins stated that he has been traveling around and looking at the motor grader operators, just trying to check on things and see ifhe Vice Chairman Adam Worsley: Vice Chairman Worsley thanked everyone for the work they Commissioner Bryan Threadgill: Commissioner Threadgill thanked the staff for keeping the Chairman Gene King: Chairman King stated that he knows a lot has been put on the shoulders oft the staff while the Board is looking for an Administrator and staff has stepped up the game, and it is very appreciated. Chairman King stated that he would like to mention for Mr. Carter that the recreation teams played Lamar County and the 7U team won 21-0, 8U won 6-0, 10U won 27-15. Chairman King stated that they also had a cookout behind the school, and everything went really well. Chairman King thanked everyone for what they have been doing. County Attorney Michael Hill stated that he has no report but does understand there is a need for A motion was made to go into the Executive Session to discuss litigation, personnel, and real estate at 8:13 p.m. by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Collins. All were ini favor. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Worsley and seconded by Commissioner Collins to go out of the Executive Session at 9:13 p.m. All were in favor. A motion was made by Vice Chairman Worsley and seconded by Commissioner Collins to go back into Regular Session at 9:16 p.m. All were in favor. Commissioner Threadgill did not return to the meeting.  could help in any way.  were doing and the effort they are putting in.  County going.  XV. REPORT FROM COUNTY ATTORNEY  an Executive Session to discuss Litigation, Personnel, and Real Estate.  XVI. EXECUTIVE SESSION  Chairman King stated there was no action taken in the Executive Session.  XVII. FUTURE MEETINGS & NOTICES  XVIII. ADJOURNMENT  With no further discussion, a motion was made to adjourn the meeting by Vice Chairman Worsley and seconded by Commissioner Collins at 9:16 p.m. All were in favor.  Approved by: Attest: Date:  Mainily UOK of He Bolyd of Imtmissibrers Hacs Atupheno, Counly Clevk  Suphunmber 12024