MINUTES SEPTEMBER24,2024 6:00 PM  MERIWETHER COUNTY BOARD OF COMMISSIONERS  Commissioners Present: Chairman Gene King, Vice Chairman. Adam Worsley-via Zoom, Staff] Present: Finance Director/Administative Team John Gorton, County Clerk/Administrative Team Allyson Stephens, I.T. Director/Administnative Team. Matthew Brown, Assistant County  Commissioner Rosla Plant, and Commissioner Bryan Threadgill Commissioners. Absent: Commissioner Emmett Collins Administrator Blue Cole, and County Attorney Michael Hill Others: Representing Planning and Zoning, Theron Gay  Staff Absent:  I. CALL TO ORDER II. INVOCATION III. PLEDGETOTHE: FLAG IV. ADOPT AGENDA  The Meeting was Called to Order by Chairman Gene King at 6:00 p.m. The Invocation was given by Assistant County Administrator Blue Cole.  All  A motion was made by Commissioner Plant and seconded by Commissioner Threadgill to Adopt the. Agenda with the following amendments: Add Under. New. Business #2-IGA for Tax Collectionj for the Town ofLone Oak. Remove #2 Under Unfinished. Business- Request from Tax  Commissioner, for additional. Personnel. All were in favor.  V. PRESENTATIONS VI. FINANCE REPORT  None  Finance! Director Gorton presented the Board with the bank balances as of4:00 p.m. and all funds were holding steady. Director Gorton stated that there will not need to be any money moved out oft the Investment Pool back into the General Fund. Director Gorton stated that $360,000 shown on the report is interest that has been earned over the fiscal year and there is still one: more month ofi interest to collect. Director Gorton stated the LOST, SPLOST,and TSPLOST: allocations would be coming in on. Friday. Director Gorton provided the Board with a list ofall SPLOST: and' TSPLOST commitments. Director Gorton stated that SPLOST! has an available amount to spend as of9-24-2024 of $376,000 and TSPLOSTis- -$129,000 and with the allocation coming in on Friday, TSPLOST will be backi in the surplus. Director Gorton stated that he found more information on thel hosting fees and tipping fees. Director Gorton stated hel had located a contract that ended. April 2023 and is in the process of locating an agreement from May 2023 to current. Chairman King askedi ifDirector Gorton was still working on the audit for the landfill. Director Gorton stated that staffi is working on that and with the help Administrator Cole and Deputy Clerk Gillaspy were able to find all amendments up to. April 2023. Director Gorton stated that hel has reached out to. Attorney Bob Trammel andi is waiting  of Asst. for al response.  VII. DEPARTMENT HEADS    VIII. CITIZEN COMMENT IX. MINUTES  1. A motion was madel by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Plant to table the approval oft the Minutes for the September 11,2024, Regular Meeting at 9:00 a.m. 1. Case #P24-015- - Request from Catherine Filios and Michael Laney to rezone parcels 161-004001, 161-004002, 161-004003, and 161-004004, 35+/- acres from LDR to A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Plant to go into the Public Hearing at 6:05 p.m. All were ini favor. Mr. Theron Gay, filling in for Planning and Zoning Director Cassandra Sharpe, stated that Ms. Filios and Mr. Laney are requesting to rezone approximately 35 acres to A1.Mr. Gay explained that the property is split upi into multiple parcels that total around 35 acres. Mr. Gay stated that in order to get into the Al Zoning, 25 acres are required, and the applicant has 35. Mr. Gay stated that Ms. Filios wants to combine the properties for A1 and wants to build a stable and aj personal arena for the property. Mr. Gay stated that staffrecommended approval ofthe parcels to. Al for agricultural use, witha composite plat, showing the combined lots. Mr. Gay stated that with a composite plat the Assessor's office could turn iti into a 35-acre tract and show that, as opposed to the multiple smaller acre tracts. Mr. Gay stated that this has been properly advertised and staff recommends Ms. Catherine Filios of27825 Highway 85 stated that she purchased property next to her parents as well as two properties in front oft them, and she would like to bring herl horses home. Ms. Filios stated that she and her parents are on the farm all the time and would like to expand thej property for berries and expand it for the horses and would like the Board's approval. There was no one: int the audience to speak for or against the rezoning. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Plant to come out oft thel Public Ai motion was made by Chairman Gene King to approve the request from Catherine Filios and MichaelLaney toi rezone parcels 161-0401,161-004002, 161-004003, and 161-004004, 35+/- acres from LDR to Al for agricultural use. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Threadgill.. All were in favor. Vice Chairman Worsley voted ini favor via Zoom. 2. Case #P24-016-] Request from Adam Hand for. .25 ofan acre of parcel 054-005 for A motion wasi made by Commissioner Threadgill and seconded by Commissioner Plant to go into the Public Hearing at 6:09 p.m. All were in favor. Voting by Zoom Vice Chairman Mr. Gay stated that this is in District 2, in Commissioner Plant's district and is located at 440 Wilbur Keith Road. The applicant is Mr. Adam Hand and had submitted an application for RR Special Use of0.25 ofan acre for a family cemetery. Mr. Gay stated the Planning Commission  until the next meeting on October 7,2024, at 6:00 p.m.  X. PUBLIC HEARING A1 for agricultural use.  approval to allow the A1 use ofthe property.  Hearing at 6:08 p.m. All were ini favor.  the use ofa family cemetery  Worsley.    heard this on September 16, 2024, and recommended approval. Mr. Gay explained that the plat ofthe cemetery location would need tol be placed and recorded in the Clerk of Superior Court's office. Mr. Gay stated that the rules are that the applicant must be present and Mr. Hand was not present. Mr. Gay suggested continuing the Public Hearing toi the next meeting. A motion was made by Commissioner Plant to continue the Public Hearing until the October 22, 2024, Regular Meeting at 6:00 p.m. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Threadgill. All were ini favor with Vice Chairman Worsley voting in favor by Zoom. 3. Case #P24-018- - Request from Liquor Barn for Business Alcohol License fora Distilled Spirits Package Store, located at 24575 Hwy. 85, Alvaton, GA. A motion was made by Commissioner Plant and seconded by Commissioner Threadgill to go into the Public Hearing at 6:12 p.m. All were in favor with Vice Chairman Worsley voting in Mr. Theron Gay stated that thisi is an application for a distilled package license in Alvaton, GA. Mr. William Hyde of Peachtree City has made an application for an alcohol package store, located at 24575 Highway 85, Gay. Mr. Hyde had planned on having an attorney serve as his designated license representative and is still working on that. Mr. Hyde has indicated he has read and understands all the provisions ofthe Alcohol Ordinance, especially relating to this application. Mr. Gay stated the background check has been done and indicates no criminal background issues. Mr. Gay stated that GDOT: required a commercial driveway on the property and Planning Director Cassandra Sharpe spoke with GDOT, who told them they had the whole area as commercial and made the developer install a GDOT approved driveway. Mr. Gay stated there was also an issue ofhaving GDOT install a septic system as well to serve the property. Mr. Gay stated in March 2024, voters approved package sales of distilled spirits, by a vote of 1728 yes to 827 nos. Mr. Gay stated this was approved for package sales of distilled spirits in Meriwether County. Mr. Gay stated that tol keep in conformance with that approval by the voters, the Board of Commissioners approved to1 recommend the change of ordinance to allow the sale of distilled spirits and to limit the total oflocations to: 5 throughout the County. Mr. Gay stated that the location exceeds any oft the requirements for distance from any school or church and meets the criteria. Mr. Gay stated that considering the facts, Meriwether County Planning Commission is recommending approval for the application for this package store. Mr. Gay provided a map to the Board and stated that all the properties surrounding the proposed store that arel highlighted in yellow are commercial and used for commercial purposes. Mr. Gay stated that the convenience store was recently expanded with car washes, mini warehouses, a garage, an event center, an old former service gas station, and the County Fire Station. Mr. Gay stated that the beliefis the zoning should bel NHC and that the Zoning Map may or may notl have been changed. Mr. Gay stated that looking at tax records all indicated it was commercial and all the uses fall under NHC. Mr. Gay stated in order to do this tonight, he would like the stafft to be able tol look and verify that the Zoning Map was updated. Mr. Gay stated staffi is recommending approval contingent on verification of proper zoning and upon designation ofa license designee. County Attorney Hill stated that ift the Board does want to condition the grant ofthe alcohol license on the: zoning, and it turns out that it is not currently zoned like Mr. Gay thinks was intended, it would require them to rezone the property. County Attorney Hill stated that the applicant has 20 minutes to: speak first and then there will be 20 minutes set aside for those who want to speak against the request. Mr. Hill stated that ift there are: multiple people and there is no spokesperson designated, then 20 minutes would be divided up among those who want to speak.  favor by Zoom.    Applicant:  Mr. William Michael Hyde of103 Country Club Court, Peachtree City stated that he is in attendance to take care of any questions or concerns that he can address for members ofthe public or the Commission. Mr. Hyde stated that he has been self-employed with a chain of convenience stores since 1978. Mr. Hyde stated that he has had 20 stores, most ofwhich were built from the ground up, some acquired along the way. Mr. Hyde stated that they also had a liquor store from 1978-1980 and this was not their first rodeo. Mr. Hyde stated this was an opportunity he saw in Meriwether County, and he sees a lot ofo opportunities in Meriwether County in the years forward. Mr. Hyde stated they were not looking for this, but when this was voted in, it piqued their curiosity and here they are now. Mr. Hyde stated he is fully aware ofthe two conditions being recommended by staff and isi in attendance to answer any questions the Mr. Byrom Martin of 178 Strickland Town Road, Luthersville stated he is the Pastor of Alvaton Baptist Church. Pastor Martin stated he left a letter for each Board member on their opinion of Case #P24-018 as well as a list of church members who signed with their opposition. Pastor Martin stated he spoke with Chairman King and appreciated him calling him to discuss the issue. Pastor Martin stated he was told as Commissioners that their hands were tied due to the referendum on March 12th and doesn't believe they have a choice. Pastor Martin stated that hel believed everyone had a choice and the referendum only included 16.65% of registered voters inl Meriwether County. Pastor Martin stated that he is there to voice his opinion and opposition to the liquor license. Pastor Martin stated that we always have a choice to do what is right, no matter what the consequences are, which he stated is found in Deuteronomy Chapter 30 and also Romans Chapter 12:2 where we are told to not be conformed to this world, but to be transformed in the renewing of our mind that we may prove what is good and acceptable and perfect will of God. Pastor Martin stated that he hoped the Board would seek the Lord's will before every meeting. Pastor Martin appreciated the prayer before the meeting. Pastor Martin stated he is not alone in the fight and believes that God and His word are on his side and there are members of his church and members of the community that stand against this liquor store going into Alvaton. Pastor Martin stated that Alvaton is unincorporated, and the residents have to take their voice to the County Commissioners. Pastor Martin stated he remembered not too long ago the citizens of Alvaton voiced their opposition to arock quarry, and today, with the same vigor and passion, he urged the Commissioners to vote no to Case #P24-018. Pastor Martin ended his time with a quote from the wisest man on Earth. This: Solomon said in Proverbs 20:1, "wine is a mocker, strong drink is raging, and whosoever is deceived thereby is not wise." Pastor Martin stated that those words are taken from the Bible and prayed the Board would be wise when Ben Spangler of229 Taunton Road, Alvaton stated that one reason he opposes this case is basically that he has gone through the Meriwether County Code of Ordinances. Mr. Spangler stated he was starting out in Chapter 4 through 6. Mr. Spangler states the sign shall be posted and furnished by the County and will be painted or printed in black letters at 1 1/2 inches against an orange background. Mr. Spangler stated that it has not been met at all, the sign was 14x26 and the ordinance says it is supposed to be 14x30 and the sign has not been posted correctly for the first 30 days of posting. Mr. Spangler stated in Article 7: Zoning District Standards and Permitted Uses in Section 71: District Lot and Height Standards. Mr. Spangler stated that the district area zoning is considered neighborhood commercial. Mr. Spangler stated the minimum lot acreage for that lot and not sure ift the proposed lot is commercial or not, is a I-acre lot size. Mr. Spangler stated the minimum lot width from the setback from Highway 85 is 100 feet. Mr.  public or Commission may have.  Opposed:  making its decision.    Spangler stated the lot, as they have aj plat is 80ft wide x 150ft, and does not meet the ordinance from that. Mr. Spangler stated ifyou look at the side drive through, the minimum is 20ft wide and the proposed side drive through is only 11ft wide. Mr. Spangler stated that all the items in Chapter 4 under Alcoholic Beverages stop the drive-thru and under Meriwether County Code 1991, Ordinance 12-08-2010, it shall be unlawful for any delivery to be made to and or sold to ber made outside the outlet. It shall be unlawful to sell or dispense alcoholic beverages in a drive- thru or service window. Mr. Spangler stated that ifthe drive-thru is limited, there isa requirement for handicap parking and there is no handicap parking associated with the building currently. Mr. Spangler stated it has to be by ADA requirements. Mr. Spangler stated that in Chapter 4 it says no license or employee license shall permit the selling of alcoholic beverages on Sunday, unless otherwise permitted in Chapter 4. Mr. Spangler stated the Alcohol Ordinance also states that alcoholic beverages are permitted on election days in outlets not located within 250 ft of the polling place. Mr. Spangler stated that the election polling place has been moved to the Banquet Hall, sO they would have to be closed on Election day. Mr. Ronnie Heard conceded his time to Mr. Spangler. Mr. Spanger continued. Mr. Spangler stated that when the building was originally built, he was told from the County Commission, Zoning, that the property was considered residential. Mr. Spangler stated the previous owner that lived in Colorado was told it was residential and the whole area is listed as LDR on the Zoning Maps and the maps have never been changed, and he is currently dealing this same situation on one ofhis properties in another county. Mr. Spangler stated that he has been told by a lawyer, real estate agent, and zoning consultant that his property, which is the same, and has commercial all around it, has to be rezoned. Mr. Spangler stated that ifit has to be rezoned by Meriwether County Ordinance it cannot be commercial property, strictly by the dimension ofthe lot. Mr. Spangler stated that apparently the owner was going to buy some property it couldn't be commercial now. Mr. Spangler stated that iti is not what is needed in Meriwether County in the Alvaton area. Mr. Spangler stated that in Appendix A. Zoning, under 2.2 Minimum Standards, the requirements or regulations are minimum permissible standards, and it is expected that the developers and respective decision-making authority will normally strive for quality developments that will exceed these minimum requirements. Mr. Spangler stated that we are not meeting the requirements in Meriwether County Ordinance that has been in place for 5-10 years. Mr. Pastor Chris Seabolt of20 Woodard Road, Greenville stated that he is there on behalfof Faith Baptist Church and will be very briefin his comments. Pastor Seabolt stated that he grew up in a family where his dad was an alcoholic. Pastor Seabolt stated that he has a large family and has many brothers and sisters that are alcoholics at this time. Pastor Seabolt stated that he had never seen where alcohol has produced any advancement inl Meriwether County and doesn't see how it can bel helpful. Pastor Seabolt stated that drunkenness and alcohol promotes degradation of families and citizens and leads to criminal activities. Pastor Seabolt stated that the Bible says in Habakkuk 2:15,Woe unto him that giveth his neighbor drink, that puttest thy bottle to him, and makest him drunken also, that thou mayest look on their nakedness! Pastor Seabolt advised that the Board be very careful in their decision tonight, because this won't be Lemuel Rivers of 4957 Alvaton Road stated that he lived less than a mile from the location of the proposed site. Mr. Rivers stated that he agreed with both ofthe Pastors that had spoken, and he is a Minister as well. Mr. Rivers stated he has grandchildren down the road and is widowed by a drunk driver. Mr. Rivers stated that a drunk driver hit his wife head on. January 25, 1990.  Spangler stated the lot should not be commercial at all.  the last time we. have to give an account of what we do.    Mr. Rivers stated he wants to give opposition to this, and it is a very serious thing to put the Board's stamp ofapproval on another selling place for alcohol in the County. Marie Brown of24543 Highway 85 stated that the liquor store actually joins onto her property. Ms. Brown stated that when Chairman King bought the property, she believes he gave $12,000 fori it and sold it for $340,000 last month. Ms. Brown stated that she was really surprised when Chairman King came and talked to them about it. He didn't know what it was going tol be, but tol her, by the way, it was designed like a drive-thru liquor store. Ms. Brown stated that they have had nothing at the stop sign where the store would be. Ms. Brown stated it iss so bad with traffic and wrecks there has recently been a 4-way stopi installed. Ms. Brown stated drugs, alcohol, and speeding on the road is enormous. Ms. Brown stated that just about a mile down from them on thel left, there is a road where there's about 100 people out ini the streets and drinking. Ms. Brown stated thisi is what they will have. Ms. Brown stated that with the help ofSheriff Smith and with much prayer, they have finally got the drugs andj people out oft the car wash. Ms. Brown stated that what Chairman King did when shel looks outl her window is he has ruined the view ofher property and all she sees is caged in buildings and high signs. Ms. Brown stated that there are: four families int the neighborhood, and it is not all commercial. Ms. Brown stated that they have no view, and her husband couldn't even cross the highway due to the speeding traffic. Ms. Brown stated that since the 4-way stop that has been put in, the people are mad and want to take offand not let anyone cross the street. Ms. Brown stated that they can't go out on their front porch and have no activity. Ms. Brown stated that she is not moving andi is staying and fighting this and hopes everyone comes together against it because Meriwether County does not need any more drugs, traffic, and alcohol at that stop sign and on Highway 85. Ed: Brown of24543 Highway 85 stated he is a recovered alcoholic. Mr. Brown stated he wasa drunk and a drug addict and was into worldly matters. Mr. Brown stated that he knows what iti is tos allow alcohol to bring you down. Mr. Brown stated he got down to $1.75 inl his bank account and didn't know who owned his house. Mr. Brown stated he married his wife on May 15, 2003 and Godl blessed him with al home around the corner on Summer Drive. Mr. Brown stated he turned his house keyi in as. he didn't know who owned his home. Mr. Brown stated that Brent Scarborough hired him on May 30, 2003. Mr. Brown stated he never had a bank account in his life until he opened one and closed on his house on Summer Drive on August 1, 2003. Mr. Brown stated that God has blessed him since he turned his life over to him and did away with alcohol and drugs. Mr. Brown stated that on1 the second Wednesday night ofOctober 2001, he turned his life over tot the good Lord. Mr. Brown stated he bought the home for his retirement home. Mr. Brown stated that roads can be built over the top ofhis home, but he is not moving. Mr. Brown stated that he asked Chairman King ifthey were trying toj push them out of their house, and he said no we're not. Mr. Brown stated that as soon as they got off the phone, Chairman King sent him at text message stating,"oh, when you get ready to sell, let me know." Mr. Brown stated that it wasn't nothing but a scheme from the devil. Mr. Brown thanked the Lord for his property and his opposition to this. Mr. Brown stated, "Lord, Ijust come to you today toj put your! hands over this package store and rebuke thel hell out oftheir area, in the name ofJ Jesus Christ. Mr. Brown stated that hei is in control ofwhatever the Board does. Mr. Brown stated" you can own) property and everything, but at1 the end oftime, everybody in this room and on1 this] planet is going tol have a 61 by 61 hole, and that will be his property when he dies. Mr. Ronnie Heard of 25073 Highway 85 stated he would like thel Board to vote no on approving the liquor license permit in Alvaton. Mr. Heard stated that this property is in ai residential  Brown stated that is where he would be at.    neighborhood that has always been R3 until just recently and, for some reason, is now: zoned C3. Mr. Heard stated he must have missed the zoning meeting even though he goes by this property two or three times every day. Mr. Heard stated that they do not need a liquor store in this residential area with homes beside it, across from it, along with the Community Events center next to it. Mr. Heard stated the events center could be used for election voting, Junior/Senior Proms, birthdays and such. Mr. Heard stated there is also aj proposed subdivision behind this location that could have young families and children close by. Mr. Heard stated that Alvaton Baptist Church is located a few hundred yards as a crow flies. Mr. Heard stated that ifanyone had the opportunity to go by there and see how small the lot is, he has been told it does not meet the proper buffers and the building and property lines, etc. Mr. Heard stated he is hoping the County zoning folks are on top oft this and they will enforce the County rules without compromise. Mr. Heard stated it is small with hardly any parking, and at the moment no handicap parking, with very little room for folks to drive around the building. Mr. Heard stated that with a couple of delivery trucks parked there, along with a couple of employees, parking logistics would be a nightmare and create a situation where people will have to park on the sidewalks in front oft the building. Mr. Heard stated folks are already having to do that now during construction. Mr. Heard stated there seems to be a flagrant disregard for the County's zoning rules, and the public notice signs have been up, down, and propped against the fence. Mr. Heard stated he goes by there several times each day, and it could be either on the ground or behind a car not visible. Mr. Heard stated that after reading up on this, many studies have been done on the effects of liquor stores in neighborhoods, especially neighborhoods with a large concentration oft those types of stores. Mr. Heard stated that there is already a store that sells beer and winej just across the street. Mr. Heard stated that as far as he can tell, Meriwether County at the moment has 6 liquor stores. Mr. Heard stated that Alvaton does not need one. Mr. Heard stated that he has heard if you have more liquor stores than grocery stores, the ratio has gotten out of! hand. Mr. Heard stated that with al high number of liquor stores int the community, there seems to be negative side effects, such as crime, violent crime, assault, robbery, rape, and homicide. Mr. Heard stated these side effects lead to neighborhood decay, drugs, drug dealing, public drunkenness, and drunk driving. Mr. Heard stated in one study, aj phrase was used, "liquor stores are hot spots, attracting crime to neighborhoods the way honey attracts flies."Mr. Heard stated he could see how this would happen, because several days ago he was getting gas at the Sentry Hardware in Greenville and noticed several people hanging out in front ofthe liquor store. Mr. Heard stated he also noticed people hanging out at the liquor store in Woodbury on Highway 85. Mr. Heard understands this is a part oflife, but if possible, he would like it to be somewhere other than their neighborhood. Mr. Heard suggested a grocery store or hardware store there, or even a Tractor Supply, which he stated he would be okay with. Mr. Mr. William Hyde stated he appreciated all the comments and, for what it is worth, his mother was also an alcoholic, and he can appreciate the sentiments that come with that and the problems that are associated with someone having to live through that. Mr. Hyde stated that as far as approval oft the application, he believes they have met all the requirements, subject to a couple of caveats, presented by staff. Mr. Hyde stated that they. just checked the boxes as given to them, and had they not been available, they wouldn't have been able to check them. Attorney Michael Hill stated that Speaker #1 did mention al letter and the Ordinances state that if the Board is given any communications, that have asked to be part of the record, etc., then they  Heard thanked the preacher for what he said.  Rebuttal    need to bej presented at this time. A copy oft thel letter was given to the Clerk. Withi no: further comments, a motion was made by Commissioner Plant and seconded by Commissioner Threadgill to come out oft the Public Hearing at 6:42 p.m. All were in favor, with Vice Chairman Worsley voting in favor by Zoom. Chairman King stated that thel lot next to Mr. Brown's that Mr. Gay mentioned is already commercial and they are about to come in and build ac commercial building there. Chairman King stated that a lot of people, and he didn't even know about it, have told] him there is a crematory being built around the corner, which has already been permitted. Chairman King stated that falls under the County guidelines and they did not have to come before the Board. Chairman King stated that as far as the lot goes, Director Sharpe mentioned tol Mr. Hyde that the loti isal lot ofrecord. Mr. Gay stated there was a note brought up about a drive-thru and he does believe that was addressed in the latest version oft the Alcohol Ordinance but will check and make sure. Chairman King stated that that was addressed and at the time the building was built, the rules were that there had tol be a 100ft setback from the front, 20ft from the sideline, and 25ft from the rear. Chairman King stated that GDOT met him out there because he did build the building but had no idea it would be al liquor store. Chairman King stated they made sure they had the I00ft from the front and had an engineer design it with 20ft off the sideline and 32ft offt the back. Chairman King stated this is why the building is 40x60, which is alli ito could be. Chairman King stated the reason they had toj purchase 6ft from the gentleman next door is because when they added the cooler, they did not realize the cooler went into the 20ft setback, requiring them to have 5 more feet to meet the requirements. Chairman King stated that Director Sharpe told them they had tol have 25ft, which is why they purchased 6ft, to have the 25ft requirement. Chairman King stated that the building does meet the requirements, and Environmental Health came out and looked at the septic tank and told him that he couldn't issue itl because he would have to have a commercial engineer design it because itisac commercial lot. Chairman King stated during the time he was the owner of the lot; he paid and had an engineer design the septic system. Chairman King stated that he was going to doa residential entry, because it is cheaper, but GDOT met him at the location and would not issue a permit, unless he did a commercial entrance because they told him it was a commercial lot. Chairman King stated that when he came in regarding the zoning, he was told that there was something that was something to do with the map and updating. Commissioner Threadgill stated there were quite a few items brought up by Mr. Spangler. Commissioner Threadgill asked Mr. Gay ifthey were sure they were 100% in compliance with all the ordinances that Mr. Spangler discussed. Mr. Gay stated that he wanted to make sure he got all of what was mentioned. Mr. Gay stated that district lot standards being a I-acre minimum, and al lot ofrecord. Mr. Gay stated that all oft the zoning categories state I-acret, sO there is no zoning category that states less than that and he would think it would have to be looked at as a lot ofr record. Mr. Gay stated that regarding the black letters against an orange background for the sign is correct and is what the Ordinance says. Mr. Gay stated he did speak with the County Attorneys on that and feels the real intent of that is to be sure that people noticed and] know that iti is happening and don't think the color was a reali issue. County Attorney Hill stated that State law does allow for substantial compliance for any government entity. County Attorney Hill stated that he feels that 4-inches off the sign is not a dispositive issue, nori is the color a dispositive issue. Commissioner Threadgill asked ifthe drive- thru item was addressed. Mr. Gay stated that he believes it was addressed when the update was made to the Alcohol Ordinance to allow distilled spirits but would check on that. Mr. Gay stated this was also one oft the conditions. County Attorney Hill stated that ift the Board were to make a  motion    toj pass the request then the motion would include a condition that it be properly zoned. County Attorney Hill stated that whether it is ori isn't zoned, it would need to bej properly zoned for that activity before anything could move forward. Mr. Gay stated that it would also be contingent on the designation ofal license representative. Commissioner Plant asked if this request should be continued until all conditions have been met. County Attorney Hill stated that the Board wouldn't be able to take any additional evidence or comments or emails from the community into account. Attorney Hill stated that the Board is allowed to defer their decision until a later time. Commissioner Threadgill stated that he is requesting legal advice with everything that has been brought up tonight, if the County isi in 100% legal compliance with all the Ordinances. Commissioner Threadgill stated he knew Mr. Gay stated and reiterated but wanted his legal opinion. County Attorney Hill stated hel had not been asked to do at thorough review before this meeting and would hesitate on giving opinion without that review. Vice Chairman Worsley stated that he agrees with Commissioner Threadgill and feels the Board needs a definitive answer on the County being in legal compliance with their own policies, before a decision is reached. Commissioner Threadgill stated that just with the concerns brought up, he wants to make sure they are: not putting themselves and the County in a situation before moving forward. Commissioner Threadgill made ai motion to defer thel Board's decision until thel November 4, 2024, Regular Meeting at 6:00 p.m. Commissioner Threadgill stated this was to get confirmation from legal on all concerns that were brought up. The motion was seconded by Commissioner 1. Appointment tol DFACS, District 1, toi fill a five-year term that will expire on June A motion wasi made by Chairman King to1 table this appointment to the next meeting on October 7,2024, Regular Meeting. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Threadgill. All were in  Plant. All werei in favor with Vice Chairman Worsley voting by Zoom.  XI. APPOINTMENIS 30, 2029  favor with Vice Chairman Worsley voting by Zoom. XII. UNFINISHED BUSINESS 1. Award of2024 Culvert RepairRephacmes-IRA  Finance Director. John Gorton stated that bids were opened forl LL: Revell, Tigner, and Magnolia Road culverts. Director Gorton stated the bids were opened by himself, Allyson Stephens, Theron Gay, and Kristy Gillaspy on. August 23, 2024. Director Gorton stated 101 bids were received forl LLI Revell Road, with 7 oft the bids ranging from $133,314.24 to $325,000. Director Gorton stated that for Magnolia Road there were 7 bids received ranging from $68,000 to $147,842.43. Tigner Road had five bids, with the lowest being $48,000 andt the highest bid being $255,000. Staff recommends that LL Revell Road culverts be awarded to Southeastern Site Development int the amount of$130,313.24 as the lowest and best bid, Magnolia Road culvert be awarded to Southeastern Site Development in the amount of $87,288.02 as the next to lowest and best bid, and' Tigner Road culvert be awarded to Piedmont Paving in the amount of $188,092.00 as the best bid, meeting all the bid requirements. The total amount ofall awarded bids is $405,694.26. Finance Director Gorton stated this would be paid for from the LRA fund. Director Gorton stated that the low bid on the Tigner Road and Magnolia Road projects were disqualified due to the failure of complying with the bid requirements. Director Gorton stated    the low bid on both ofthose was the Mitchell Group. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill to açcept the recommendation ofstaff for the bid on culverts for 2024 repair, coming from LRA money. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Plant. All were in favor with 2. Request from the Tax Commissioner for additional Personnel: The. Agenda was  Vice Chairman Worsley voting via Zoom. Amended to remove #2 Under Unfinished Business. XIII. NEW: BUSINESS 1. Adopt FY 2024-2 2025 Budget  Finance Director Gorton stated that this is following the Public Hearing, and staffrecommends approval ofFY 2024-2025 Budget. Director Gorton stated the General Fund for FY 2024-2025 will be $21,390,470.00, which is a 13% growth over the prior year. Director Gorton stated the prior year's budget was $18,939,371.00. Director Gorton stated all the funds are in balance according to state law, which includes all Special Revenue Funds. Staffrecommends approval of the FY 2024-2025 Budget, with the Resolution of Adoption, for all members to sign. Director Gorton stated all funds are listed on the Resolution. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill to accept the FY 2024-2025 Budget, by recommendation of the staff, with all members to sign the Resolution. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Plant. All were in Director Gorton stated that during the September 11,2024, meeting, the Board voted to sign the IGA for the collection oftaxes for the Town ofLone Oak, contingent upon the Town ofLone Oak signing the Fire Station Lease. Staffrecommends, due to the tax bills going out on October 1,2024, to approve this IGA without the contingency clause, and to not delay the tax collections for the Town ofLone Oak. Commissioner Threadgill stated that he would like to say that the County does need the signatures on the contracts that they have been waiting on for some time from the Town ofLone Oak but can't delay the fact that taxes have to be çollected. Commissioner Threadgill stated that it not only affects the town, but the citizens as well. A motion was made by Commissioner Threadgill to go into the IGA for the Tax Commissioner to be able to collect the taxes for the Town ofLone Oak. The motion was seconded by Commissioner Plant. Voting in favor were Chairman King, Commissioner Threadgill, and Commissioner Plant. Vice Chairman Worsley voted opposed via Zoom. The motion passed. Finance Director Gorton stated as of the last meeting, the Administrative Team has worked on finalizing the 2024-2025 Budget. Director Gorton stated the RFPS are due for the Courthouse Engineering on October 4, 2024, at 1:00 p.m. The Public Works Surplus bids are due by 1:00 p.m. on September 26, 2024. Director Gorton stated that staffhas contacted ACR about ai roof leak at the jail and are coordinating a date and time for Dukes Electrical, Airforce Heating and Air, and ACR to meet with staff to determine the cause of the leak and options to repair the leak. Director Gorton stated that discussion is taking place with Robert Hill with the State Properties Commission. Director Richmond from the. Animal Shelter should hopefully hear back soon about what amount the Animal Shelter was awarded for the grant from the Rachel Ray Foundation. The Lake Meriwether septic issues have been resolved, and the hot water heater has been repaired. The new ESO: software for EMS will be going live in the middle of October with  favor, with Vice Chairman Worsley voting via Zoom. 2. IGA for Tax Collection for the Town ofLone Oak  XIV. REPORT FROM COUNTY ADMINISTRATOR    the new billing company being EMS Management Consulting, Inc. Director Gorton stated the Airport Authority has sent a confirmation letter to GDOT for the matching funds that were  approved at the last meeting for the airport lighting. XV. REPORT FROM COUNTY COMMISSIONERS Commissioner Bryan Threadgill: Commissioner Threadgill had no report Commissioner Rosla Plant: Commissioner Plant reminded everyone about the Keep Meriwether Beautiful on Saturday and reminded everyone to stay weather alert. Commissioner Plant thanked the staff for the work they had been doing and Assistant Administrator Cole for the town halls. Commissioner Plant stated she was proud to be in attendance. Vice Chairman Adam Worsley: Vice Chairman Worsley thanked everyone for the work they have been doing. Vice Chairman Worsley stated that it is a sign ofa good team when everyone can come together in the absence of key members, and do the job as well as staffis doing. Vice Chairman Worsley stated he appreciated it and thanked all County staff and the Board members Chairman Gene King: Chairman King stated that everyone was doing a great job working together and getting things done until an administrator is found. Chairman King stated everyone was stepping up, keeping the County moving smoothly and he was very thankful.  for letting him be involved remotely.  XVI. REPORT FROM COUNTY ATTORNEY County Attorney Michael Hill had no report. XVII. EXECUTIVE SESSION There was no need for an Executive Session. XVIILFUTURE MEETINGS & NOTICES Chairman King announced the Future Meetings.  XIX. ADJOURNMENT  With no further business, a motion was made by Commissioner Plant and seconded by Commissioner Threadgill to adjourn the meeting at 7:02 p.m. All were in favor with Vice  Chairman Worsley voting via Zoom.  Approved by: Mojoyity Voke Of the ooid Of Conmissiones  Attest: Date:  (a& ptaplero, Counly Clerk  Drtbner 12024