PIKE CO COMMISSIONERS RAISING TAXES

 PRESS RELEASE ANNOUNCING A PROPOSED PROPERTY TAX INCREASE

The Pike County Board of Commissioners today announces its intentions to increase the 2025 property taxes it will levy 

this year by 23.70 percent over the rollback millage rate.

Each year, the board of tax assessors is required to review the assessed value for 

property tax purposes of taxable property in the county. When the trend of prices

on properties that have recently sold in the county indicate there has been an 

increase in the fair market value of any specific property, the board of tax assessors

is required by law to re-determine the value of such property and adjust the 

assessment. This is called a reassessment.

When the total digest of taxable property is prepared, Georgia law requires a rollback millage rate be computed that will 

produce the same total revenue on the current year’s digest that last year’s millage rate would have produced had no 

reassessment occurred.

The budget tentatively adopted by the Pike County Board of Commissioners requires a millage rate higher than the 

rollback millage rate; therefore, before the Pike County Board of Commissions may finalize the tentative budget and set 

a final millage rate, Georgia law requires three public hearings to be held to allow the public an opportunity to express 

their opinions on the increase.

All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this tax increase to be held at the Pike County Courthouse, 

16001 Barnesville St, Zebulon, GA, on August 13, 2025 at 9:00 AM and 1:00 PM and on August 26, 2025 at 6:30 PM

U.S. SENATOR JON OSSOFF HAS DEFEATED A MOVE TO DEFUND THE CDC

  

Washington, D.C. — U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff has defeated an effort to defund the CDC in the Senate.

 

Earlier this year, the Trump Administration proposed to Congress as part of their budget request a 50% cut in funding for the CDC of approximately $4 billion. Sen. Ossoff has repeatedly been outspoken in defense of the CDC and against the Trump Administration’s continued war on the CDC, including pressing the Trump Administration’s Budget Director on their proposed cuts.

 

Today, Sen. Ossoff successfully defeated this effort to slash CDC funding in the U.S. Senate Appropriations Labor, Health and Human Services and Education funding bill. The bipartisan appropriations bill maintains normal levels of funding for the CDC, a significant win for the Georgia-based agency.

LAMAR COUNTY'S C.J. ALLEN ON WATCH LIST FOR TOP LINEBACKER IN COLLEGE FOOTBALL

 LAMAR  COUNTY'S  CJ  ALLEN--LINEBACKER  FOR  THE  GA.  BULLDOGS  HAS  BEEN  PLACED  ON  THE  WATCH  LIST FOR  THE  BRONCO  NAGURSKI  AWARD   FOR    THE  TOP  LINEBACKER  IN  THE  COUNTRY.  THE  AWARD  IS  MADE  ANNUALLY  TO  RECOGNIZE  THE  TOP  LINEBACKER  OR  DEFENSIVE  BACK  IN  COLLEGE  FOOTBALL.  C.J.  WAS  ONE OF  THE  DAWGS  CHOSEN  BY  COACH  KIRBY  SMART  TO  REPRESENT  THE  TEAM  AT  SEC MEDIA  DAYS  IN  ATLANTA.

THE UPSON COUNTY COMMISSIONERS PRESS RELEASE ON TAX MILLAGE

  The Upson County Board of Commissioners today announces its intentions to increase the 2025 property taxes it will levy this year by 5.22 percent over the rollback millage rate.

Each year, the Board of Tax Assessors is required to review the assessed value for property tax purposes of taxable property in the county. When the trend of prices on properties that have recently sold in the county indicate there has been an increase in the fair market value of any specific property, the Board of tax Assessors is required by law to re-determine the value of such property and adjust the assessment. This is called a reassessment.

Increases in County insurance as well as health care insurance premiums have necessitated an increase in the millage rate. The Upson County Board of Commissioners is tentatively set to approve a millage increase of 0.469 mills over the 2025 rollback millage rate. The revenue generated from this increase will be used to support County maintenance and operations and ensure a stable fund balance for the General Fund.

When the total digest of taxable property is prepared, Georgia law requires a rollback millage rate be computed that will produce the same total revenue on the current year’s digest that last year’s millage rate would have produced had no reassessment occurred.

The fiscal year 2025 budget adopted by the Upson County Board of Commissioners requires a millage rate higher than the rollback millage rate; therefore, before the Upson County Board of Commissioners set a final millage rate, Georgia law requires three public hearings to be held to allow the public an opportunity to express their opinions on the increase.

All concerned citizens are invited to the public hearings on this tax increase to be held at the Thomaston-Upson Government Complex, 106 E. Lee St., Suite 140, Thomaston, GA on August 19, 2025 at 4:30 p.m. and on August 26th, 2025 at 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m.

BRIGHTMARK HAS FILED PERMITS FOR ITS CIRCULARITY PLANT

 CHASE  FALLIN  CHAIR  OF  THE  THOMASTON -UPSON  IDA  ANNOUNCED  AT  THE  JULY  MEETING.  , MONDAY--BRIGHTMARK  HAS  FILED  DOCUMENTS  FOR  PERMITS  FOR  ITS   PROPOSED   PLASTICS CIRCULARITY   PLANT  AT  THE  BIZ/PARK  AT  THE  AIRPORT  AND  BRIGHTMARK  HAS  HIRED  JESSICA  HUDSON,  PREVIOUS  COMMUNITY  RELATIONS  SPECIALIST  AT  UPSON  REGIONAL  MEDICAL  CENTER  AS   COMMUNITY   OUTREACH    AGENT. 

IT  REPRESENTS A  $950  MILLION  PROJECT  TO  REPURPOSE  OVER   400,000  TONS  OF  PLASTIC  ANNUALLY  TO  TACKLE  PLASTIC  POLLUTION.

GA-PROTECT ABUSE VICTIMS

 🚨 GEORGIA: IT’S TIME TO PROTECT VICTIMS — NOT ABUSERS 🚨

I’m calling on every Georgia lawmaker to pass bold and life-saving domestic violence reforms in the 2026 legislative session. Georgia’s current laws are failing victims — and it's costing lives.

I’ve officially submitted a 16-point legislative package to every State Senator and Representative, including:

✅ Mandatory arrest for all abusers (no more warnings)
✅ No bond for domestic violence offenders
✅ Minimum 5-year prison sentence — no early release
✅ Felony charges for ALL domestic violence arrests
✅ Public registry for domestic violence offenders
✅ Firearm ban for abusers
✅ Court-supervised visitation only
✅ Name & Social Security protection for survivors
✅ A DV Court in every county with trained judges
✅ More state funding for victims to escape safely

✅ better training for law-enforcement personal to recognize domestic violence with 

MANDATORY YEARLY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE CLASSES AND COURSES 

Victims shouldn't have to beg for protection while abusers walk free. I won’t stop fighting until these reforms become law. 💪

If you’re a survivor, an ally, or simply someone who believes in protecting innocent lives — please share this post.
Tag your Georgia representatives. Let them know we are DONE being silent.

ALSO  A LOT MORE VALUABLE  DETAILS ARE ON MY DOMESTIC VIOLENCE PETITION ON WHAT I AM ASKING LAWMAKERS TO PASS  WHICH I NOW HAVE OVER 1030 SIGNATURES AS OF RIGHT NOW 

  Here's the petition https://chng.it/qXR95LnRyM

📞 Contact me to join the advocacy campaign:
📧 eugeneallison2024@gmail.com

EUGENE ALLISON 

241 BRADSHAW ROAD LOT 19

THOMASTON GEORGIA 

30286

706-975-7370

GORDON STATE COLLEGE AND ATRIUM HEALTH

 Ribbon Cutting Ceremony for Atrium Health Navicent Campus Clinic at GSC

 

 

What: Gordon State College and Atrium Health Navicent invite media and guests to attend a ribbon cutting ceremony for the new Atrium Health Navicent Campus Clinic. The clinic will serve students, faculty, and staff, along with others within the Highlander campus community.

When: Monday, August 4, 2025
9 a.m.

Where: Gordon State College

Exterior of Gordon Commons C

419 College Drive
Barnesville, GA 30204

 

Details: The ceremony will mark the official opening of the on-campus clinic, a collaborative effort to enhance access to healthcare for the campus and surrounding community. Attendees will have an opportunity to tour the facility following the ceremony

GRIFFIN-SPALDING SCHOOLS KICK-OFF

 

GSCS Staff Kick-Off the New School Year with a Back-to-School Celebration

Griffin, GA – On July 24, the Griffin-Spalding County School System (GSCS) Back to School Celebration brought all 1400+ staff together for a motivational kick-off to the 2025-26 school year at Oak Hill Church.

 
The drum lines of both Griffin High and Spalding High welcomed staff. GSCS Students, Alayna Wilson (Rehoboth Road Middle), Grayson McGavin (Carver Road Middle), Rondell White (Spalding High), Barbara Aguinaga (Spalding High), Jalah Gordon (Griffin High), Walker Blalock (Spalding High) and Jayluntee Davis (Futral Road Elementary), served as emcees for the event.

 
Interim Superintendent Dr. Donald Warren addressed the staff about being a team, not just in words but in action, in attitude and commitment. He gave the example of a rowing team and explained that even though they may sit in different positions, they are united by one goal: to move forward together. Warren stated, “Every student, every colleague, every family that we serve, deserves our best and our best only happens when we row together. Let this be the year we move as one team, one voice and one mission.”

Staff were entertained, encouraged and inspired by keynote speaker Willie Spears. Willie Spears is an educator, a football coach and author who uses humor to deliver interactive presentations focused on motivation, leadership and professional development. Spears spoke with GSCS staff about the importance of building strong relationships with students. Spears said, “You have to connect before you correct.”  He also gave classroom management tips, shared inspirational stories and the importance of staying positive. Spears encourages staff to "Bring the Positive" to this new school year.

Moreland Road Elementary Teacher Jodi McGavin was revealed as the 2025-26 District Teacher of the Year and was surprised with $3,000 and a gift basket, including free meals for a year, from Partner In Education Chick-fil-A of Griffin. The Teacher of the Year 1st Runner-Up, Quyleen Barham from Jordan Hill Elementary, received $2,000 and a prize pack from Chick-fil-A of Griffin and the 2nd Runner-Up, Daniel Goodmond from Griffin High School, received a $1,000 and a Chick-fil-A prize pack.

More staff recognition occurred with the naming of the 2025 Classified Employees of the Year, GSCS Counselor of the Year, GSCS Media Specialist of the Year and School-Level Teachers of the Year. Congratulations to the following:
2025 GSCS Counselor of the Year – Wendy Whedon, Crescent Elementary2025 GSCS Media Specialist of the Year – Melissa Davis, Spalding High School

2025 GSCS Classified Employees of the Year:
Nutrition – Barry Boggs
Technology – Ed Aragon
Maintenance – Sherri Burdette
Clerical – Jurrena Watson, Moreland Road Elementary
Transportation – Todd Coats
Custodian – Minerva Diaz, Spalding High School
Paraprofessional – Jaynessa Miller, Cowan Road Middle School
Nurse – Brenda Folds, A.Z. Kelsey Academy

MOTORCYCLE WRECK IN UPSON CO

 On July 24, 2025, at approximately 12:20 p.m., a crash occurred on Hannah’s Mill Road near Manley Road in Upson County, involving a motorcycle and a truck. The motorcycle (driven by Kaitlynn Singletary of Thomaston, GA) was traveling north on Hannah’s Mill Road, attempting to negotiate a curve.  The motorcycle crossed over the centerline, into the path of a pickup truck (driven by Bill George of Thomaston, GA) traveling south on Hannah’s Mill Road, resulting in a head-on collision. The driver of the motorcycle sustained serious injuries resulting from this crash and was airlifted to a hospital.

UPDATE BICENTENNIAL COMMITTEE DERBY

 STEPHANIE  MCKLEROY,  CITY  OF  THOMASTON  MAIN  STREET ECONOMIC  AND  COMMUNITY  ENGAGEMENT  MANAGER--SAYS THE  BICENTENNIAL  COMMITTEE  HAS  POSTPONED THE  DERBY  SET  FOR  AUGUST   2ND  AND  IT  WILL  BE  REVISITED IN  THE  FALL--BUT  ADDED  SHE  DOES  NOT  WANT  TO  GIVE  UP  ON  IT.  THE  SOAP  BOX  DERBY  STARTED  IN  OHIO IN  1934  BUT  IT  TAKES LOTS  OF  WORK  TO  GET   ONE  FOR  ENTRY.

GRIFFIN HISTORICAL SOCIETY

 THE  GRIFFIN  HISTORICAL  SOCIETY  AND  UGA  GRIFFIN   SPONSORING  THE   SOCIETY'S QUARTERLY  LUNCHEON  SUNDAY  AUGUST  24TH  AT  THE  UGA  STUCKEY  CONFERENCE  CENTER  AUDITORIUM  AT  12  NOON  FEATURING  DR.  TOMMY  HOPKINS  AND FELLOW MD  DR.  WILLIAM  RAWLINGS,  SOUHERN  WRITER.  FEE  IS   $25 FOR  LUNCH  AT   1PM.

NURSING HOMES IN GA. AT RISK DUE TO POTENTIAL MEDICAID CUTS

 A recent Brown University study has identified 37 nursing homes in Georgia that are at risk of closure due to potential Medicaid cuts included in a new federal budget bill. The study focused on facilities with a high percentage of Medicaid patients (85% or more) and low occupancy rates (less than 80%). 

While a complete list of all 37 nursing homes wasn't provided in the search results, several are specifically mentioned:
Sadie G. Mays Health & Rehabilitation Center in Atlanta.
Arrowhead Health and Rehab in Clayton County.
PruittHealth Marietta in Cobb County.
The Cottages at Rockmart in Polk County.
Twin View Health and Rehab in Emanuel County.
Providence of Sparta Health and Rehab in Hancock County.
Sparta Health and Rehab in Hancock County.
Magnolia Manor of Midway in Liberty County.
Tattnall Healthcare Center in Tattnall County.
Glenvue Health and Rehab in Tattnall County. 
The study also indicates that several counties have multiple at-risk facilities, including: Baldwin, Bibb, Fulton, Hancock, Muscogee, Tattnall, and Wilcox. 
 

UPSON BALLOTS IN NOVEMBER

 THE  UPSON  COUNTY  BOARD OF  ELECTIONS  HAS  ISSUED  A  TENATIVE  BALLOT  FOR  THE  NOVEMBER  ELECTION  THAT  INCLUDES  THREE POSITIONS  IN  THE  CITY  OF  THOMASTON--MAYOR  PRO  TEM,  AND  COUNCIL  MEMBER  DISTRICTS  3  AND  4.  CITY OF  YATESVILLE  3  COUNCIL  MEMBER  SEATS--ONE  COUNTY  RACE  FOR  PROBATE  JUDGE,  AND A  STATE  RACE  FOR  PUBLIC  SERVICE  COMMISSIONER.

QUALIFYING  FOR  CITY  OF  THOMASTON  AND  UPSON  COUNTY  AUGUST 18TH  THROUGH  22ND,  CITY  OF  YATEVILLE  AUGUST  18TH  THROUGH 20TH.  VOTER  REGISTRATION  DEADLINE  IS  OCTOBER  6TH  AND  THE  FINAL  DATE  TO  ADD  SOMETHING  TO  THE  BALLOT  IS  SEPTEMBER  5. 

THE  CITY  OF  THOMASTON  AND  COUNTY  OF  UPSON   OFFICIALS  HAVE HELD  ONE  MEETING  ON  A  FLOST  SALES  TAX MEASURE  FOR  PROPERTY  TAX  RELIEF  THAT  COULD  BE  ON  THE  BALLOT--BUT  THE  TWO  GOVERNMENTS  APPARENTLY  HAVE  DIFFERENCES  ABOUT  HOW  TO  SPLIT  THE  $5  MILLION  IN  FUNDS.U

UPSON BOC TO CONTINUE SEARCH FOR NEW CO MANAGER

 Upson County Board of Commissioners

July 24, 2025

For immediate release

 

The Upson County Board of Commissioners appointed County Chief Financial Officer, Allen Salter, as Interim County Manager effective Tuesday, July 22, 2025.  Salter will serve in this role during the recruitment process for a new County Manager.

 

During an Executive Session Tuesday, the Board of Commissioners decided to continue their search to fill the County Manager position.  The Board of Commissioners is committed to selecting the best candidate to manage the County’s daily activities to ensure that county residents and taxpayers receive the most efficient and effective services from county departments and employees.

 

Regards,

 

Dan R. Brue II

Chairman, Board of Commissioners | UPSON COUNTY

RR CROSSING IN UPSON CO TO GET WORK

 Thomaston, GA—The railroad crossing at Delray Road adjacent to SR36 (Barnesville Hwy are closed this week until Friday due to railroad crossing work. The detour route is Technology Parkway.

What: The railroad crossing and Delray Road are closed this week until Friday due to railroad crossing work. 

Why: It is closed while they are installing a new railroad crossing surface.  : 

When: July 21-25, 2025

SUBSTANCE ABUSE TOWN HALL IN THOMASTON

 Beyond The Bell Substance Use Town Hall Meeting Acknowledging Veterans

Date: Thursday July 24, 2025

Time: 6:00 PM-7:30 PM

Location: Macedonia Baptist Church 512 N Hightower Street Thomaston, GA 30286

Please come out and engage in conversation regarding the dangers of alcohol and drugs in our community as well as other issues you feel need attention.   This event is free and open to the public. Share your thoughts, concerns and idea for us to make Thomaston a great place to live. 

Refreshments will be served

UPSON BOC MEETING 7/22/25

 THE  MEETING  CHAMBER OF  THE  UPSON  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS   TUESDAY   WAS  PACKED  WITH  MEMBERS OF  THE  UPSON  COUNTY   HUMANE  SOCIETY  CALLING  ON  THE  BOC  TO  UPGRADE  THE  ANIMAL SHELTER AND  PASS  NEW LAWS  REQUIRING  SPADE  AND  NEUTER OF  ANIMALS. THEY  SAID  THE  CURRENT  SHELTER  IS   40  YEARS  OLD    BUT    THEY  PRAISED  ANIMAL  CONTROL  AND  SHELTER  EMPLOYEES  FOR  DOING  A   QUALITY    JOB WITH  WHAT  THEY  HAVE  TO  WORK  WITH.

COMMISSIONER  JAMES  ELLINGTON   COMMENDED  THE  HUMANE  SOCIETY  FOR  ITS  WORK  AT  THE  SHELTER  AND  SAID  HE  FOLLOWS  THEIR  EFFORTS  ON  FACEBOOK--AND  URGED  THEM  TO  CONTINUE. CHAIRMAN  DAN  BRUE  LIKEWISE  WAS  SUPPORTIVE OF  THEIR  WORK  ON  ANIMAL  CARE.

IDA DIRECTOR  SLATE  GULLEGE  THANKED  THE  COMMISSIONERS  AFTER  THEY  VOTED  TO  ESTABLISH A  TECHNOLOGY  OVERLAY  DISTRICT  SOMETHING  HE  SAID WOULD  BE  A    VALUABLE  TOOL  FOR  THE  DEVELOPMENT  AUTHORITY  TO  USE. 

  THE  COMMISSIONERS  GRANTED  A  BEER  AND  WINE  PACKAGE  SALES  LICENSE  TO SOUTHSIDE  GROCERY 5775 INDIAN  TRAIL  AFTER  THE   PROPERTY   WAS  BROUGHT  UP  TO  CODE.

  

  BY  UNANIMOUS  VOTE  THE  COMMISSIONERS  DENIED A   REQUEST  BY  TAX  COMMISSIONER  ANDY  CHASTAIN  FOR A  SECURITY  GUARD POSITION  FOR  THE  TAX  OFFICE  AS IT  MOVES  TO  THE  DRAKE  BUILDING. COMMISSIONERS JAMES  ELLINGTON  EXPLAINING  BUSINESSES  LIKE   HOME  DEPOT  DON'T  NEED  SECURITY OFFICERS  WHEN  THEY  MAKE  DEPOSITS. CHASTAIN  SAID  HE  HAS DEEP  CONCERNS ABOUT  THEIR  SAFETY  WHEN  HIS  OFFICE  STAFF  MAKES  BANK  DEPOSTS. AT THE  COURTHOUSE  ANNEX  THE  BANK  IS  RIGHT  ACROSS  THE  STREET

  

  A  LOCAL  COMPANY  OWNED  BY  CHASE  FALLIN--FLINT  CONTRACTORS   WAS  AWARDED  THE  CONTRACT  FOR  RENOVATING  THE  DRAKE  BUILDING  FOR  THE  TAX  COMMISSIONERS  MOVE--$348,000. MCLEROY  COMPANY    AWARDED  THE  CONTRACT  FOR  BASEBALL  FIELD  CONCESSION  STAND  AND  BATTING  CAGES-$1.181 MILLION. CITY OF  THOMASTON  WILL  PAY  32%  OF  IT    AS  A  JOINT PROJECT.   A  NEW  LIFT  STATION  IN  LINCOLN PARK  APPROVED--$594,000. ALL  SPLOST PROJECTS.

  

  

EX-THOMASTON RESIDENT RUNNING FOR STATE SCHOOL SUPERINTENDANT

 A  1990  GRADUATE OF  RE  LEE  INSTITUTE   DR. FRED  JACKSON (BUBBA) LONGGREAR  HAS  ANNOUNCED  FOR  STATE  SCHOOL  SUPERINTENDANT  IN  THE   2026  ELECTION.   DR.  JACKSON  WAS  A   MEMBER  OF  THE  1988  STATE  CHAMPIONSHIP FOOTBALL   TEAM--AND  IS  IN  HIS  11TH  YEAR  AS  SUPERINTENDANT  OF  CANDLER   COUNTY  SCHOOLS   IN    METTER, GA AND  IS  CURRENTLY  PRESIDENT  FOR  THE  GA  SCHOOL  SUPERINTENDENT ASSOCIATION.

STATE HOUSE MEMBER BETH CAMP SELECTED LEHI

 

ATLANTA – State Representative Beth Camp (R-Concord), chair of the House Intragovernmental Coordination Committee, was recently selected to participate in the Legislative Energy Horizon Institute (LEHI), a nationally recognized program designed to educate state leaders on North America’s energy infrastructure and policy.

“I’m honored to be part of this prestigious program and look forward to bringing back knowledge that will help shape sound energy policy for Georgia,” said Rep. Camp.

LEHI brings together legislators, governors’ advisors and policymakers for informational sessions led by energy industry experts. Participants gain insights into the electricity, natural gas, oil and renewable sectors, as well as the regulatory frameworks that govern them. Graduates earn a certificate in energy policy planning from the University of Idaho.

Legislators who are selected for LEHI commit to an in-depth, two-part program taking place in the summer and fall. Through the institute, legislators learn how to make informed policy choices by increasing their knowledge of complex energy issues.

Founded in 2009 through a partnership with the Pacific NorthWest Economic Region, the U.S. Department of Energy and the University of Idaho, LEHI has trained over 440 policymakers across North America.

To learn more about this program, please click here.

Representative Beth Camp represents the citizens of District 135, which includes Pike County, as well as portions of Lamar and Spalding counties. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2020 and currently serves as Chairman of the Intragovernmental Coordination Committee. She also serves on the Agriculture & Consumer Affairs, Energy, Utilities & Telecommunications, Judiciary Juvenile, State Planning & Community Affairs and Ways & Means committees.

###

 

 

UPSON PLANNING COMMISSION MEETING 7/14/25

 THE  UPSON COUNTY  PLANNING  COMMISSION  GOT  A  EXPLETIVE-LACED   EXIT  FROM  AN  APPLICANT  WHOSE  SPECIAL  EXCEPTION  WAS  VOTED  TO   DENY   TO  RECOMMEND TO  THE  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS,  MONDAY.  WILLIE  QUILLER  CAN  TAKE  THE ISSUE  TO  THE  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS BUT  HE  TOLD  THE  PLANNING  COMMISSION  HE  WAS  NOT  INTERESTED. QUILLER  HAD  BEEN  APPROVED  BY  THE  COUNTY  COMMISSIONERS  A  WHILE  BACK  TO OPERATE  A  SPECIAL  EVENTS  VENUE  WITH  ATV'S  AT  HIS PROPERTY 536  GORDON  SCHOOL  ROAD--BUT  THIS  APPLICATION  WENT  FURTHER.  HE  WANTED  PERMISSION  TO  ALLOW   NEIGHBOR YOUTH   TO  RIDE  ATV'S  ANY  TIME  THEY  WANTED  ON  HIS  10   ACRES. PLANNING  COMMISSION MEMBER  JACYLYNN  LEWIS  WARNED THAT  COULD  BE  DANGEROUS TO  RIDERS--RIDING WITHOUT  ADULT  SUPERVISION AT  ANY   HOUR.    PLANNING  COMMISSION  MEMBER  MARTIE  MURPHY  MADE  A  MOTION  TO  DENY  AND  IT  PASSED  UNANIMOUSLY.

THE  OTHER APPLICATON  ON  THE  AGENDA  WAS  FROM CLARK'S CHAPEL BAPTIST  CHURCH  FOR  A  CHURCH-ASSOCIATED  MULTI-PURPOSE  BUILDING 176  MATH;IS  LAKE  ROAD.  JEFF HILTON,  A  MEMBER  AT  THE  CHURCH  RECUSED  HIMSELF  FROM  THE  PUBLIC  HEARING  AND  SAT   IN  THE  AUDIENCE.  THE  COMMISSION  UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED  THE  APP BUT  REQUESTED  A  SITE PLAN  BE  ISSUED  TO  P&Z  DIRECTOR  DOUG  CURRIER  BEFORE  IT  IS  PRESENTED  TO  THE  COMMISSIONERS .  CHURCH  DEACON  JOE  JORDAN  SIGNALED  FROM  THE  AUDIENCE   HE  ALREADY  HAS  A  SITE  PLAN .

JANIS  BOWLES  ADDRESSED  THE  COMMISSION  REGARDING  ZONING/THE  SUBDIVISION  ORDIANCE--SHE  HAS  OPPOSED  THE  SERENITY  LAKE  SUBDIVISION  IN  HER  COMMUNITY. 

AUGUST 12  THE  PLANNING  COMMISSION  WILL  HOLD  A  WORK  SESSION    DEALING  WITH   CHANGES   ON  ZONING  AND  THE  SUBDIVISION  ORDINANCE.

UPSON-LEE NJROTC SUMMER ORIENTATION CAMP GRADUATION CEREMONY

 Join us as we celebrate the achievements and dedication of our cadets who have successfully completed the 2025 Upson-Lee NJROTC Summer Orientation Camp. These cadets excelled in physical fitness; military drill along, putting together the navy uniforms, working together and military discipline. They’ve put hard work in the past week to be a part of Upson’s NJROTC program. Come support our future leaders as they are formally recognized for their hard work, teamwork, and commitment to excellence for the NJROTC program. The ceremony will be held at the Upson-Lee Fine Arts Center on Thursday 07/17/2025 at 10:00 a.m.

GSP/TPD BLOCKED OFF TRAFFIC DOWNTOWN THOMASTON

 THE  GA.  STATE PATROL  BLOCKED  OFF    DOWNTOWN  THOMASTON  TRAFFIC  AROUND    930 AM     TUESDAY MORNING  WITH  ASSISTANCE  FROM  THE  PD  TO  ALLOW  TWO  FLATBED  TRUCKS  HAULING  HUGE  CARGO   THAT  BARELY  CLEARED  THE  TRAFFIC  LIGHT  PANELS.  THE  TRUCKS  WERE  NORTHBOUND  ON  CENTER  STREET  AND  ONCE  ON  THE  SQUARE  TURNED  LEFT  ONTO  MAIN  STREET.   PICK-UPS IN  FRONT  AND  REAR  OF  THE  TRUCKS  WERE  CLEARLY  MARKED  OVERSIZE LOAD.  A  BUCKET  TRUCK WITH  A MAN  ABOARD  MADE  SURE  THE  CARGO  CLEARED  THE  TRAFFIC LIGHT PANEL  AT  CENTER AND  GORDON. THE  GA.  STATE  PATROL TOLD  101 NEWS THEY  HAD  NO  KNOWLEDGE  OF WHAT  TYPE CARGO  WAS  BEING  TRANSPORTED  BUT  BOTH  WERE  ABOUT  THE  SIZE  OF  A  SMALL  HOUSE.

T-U SCHOOLS SPORTS UPGRADES

 THE  THOMASTON-UPSON  SCHOOLS  HAS   COMPLETED  REPAVING   THE  MATHEWS  FIELD  PARKING  LOT  WITH MARKED  PARKING  SLOTS  OVER  THE  ENTIRE  PARKING  SURFACE--AND  MARKED  HANDICAPPED  PARKING.    ITS  A   PART  OF   A  $25  MILLION   E-SPLOST PROJECT  TO  UPGRADE    ATHLETIC  FACILTIES--A  NEW  PRESS  BOX  AND  A  NEW  SCOREBOARD-INCLUDED AT  THE  STADIUM. 

BARNESVILLE'S WATER SUPPLY UPDATE

 BARNESVILLE  MAYOR  KELLY  HUGHES    TOLD  101  NEWS --  THE  WATER  SUPPLY  IS   ALL  CLEAR  AFTER  COMPLAINTS  FROM  CUSTOMERS   ABOUT  BROWN, DISCOLORED  WATER .    RECENT  HEAVY  RAINS  CAUSED MANGANESE  TO  SPIKE   RESULTING  IN  DISCOLORATION.

GUILTY PLEA UPSON SUSPERIOR COURT HOMICIDE BY VEHICLE

 A  DEFENDANT  IN  UPSON  SUPERIOR  COURT--SUSAN  FORD--  ENTERED   AN  ALFORD  PLEA    TO HOMICIDE  BY  VEHICLE  IN  THE  2ND  DEGREE  AND    FETICIDE  BY  VECHILE  IN  THE  2ND  DEGREE,  FOR  THE  DEATH  OF 27-YEAR  OLD KARA  SHIRAH  AND  HER  UNBORN  CHILD  JULY  3RD. 2023  AND  WAS  SENTENCED  WEDNESDAY  BY  THE  HONORABLE W.  FLETCHER  SAMS. ACCORDING  TO  ASSISTANT  D.A. JOHN  MCABEE  MS.  FORD'S  VEHICLE  CROSSED  THE  CENTER  LINE   ON  74  WEST  NEAR   SUNNYSIDE  ROAD    AND  STRUCK  A  VEHICLE   HEAD-ON   DRIVEN  BY   THE  VICTIM'S  HUSBAND   TANNER  SHIRAH . 

ON  THE  FIRST  COUNT MS. FORD  WAS  SENTENCED TO  12  MONTHS PROBATION $1000  FINE  AND  120  HOURS  COMMUNITY  SERVICE.  ON  THE  2ND  COUNT 12  MONTHS PROBATION , $1000  FINE   TO  RUN  CONSECUTIVE  TO  COUNT  ONE.   ON  OTHER  COUNTS  DISTRACTED  DRIVING  12  MONTHS  PROBATION  AND  FAILURE  TO  MAINTAIN  LANE  12   MONTHS  PROBATION  BOTH  TO  RUN  CONSECUTIVE  .

BARNESVILLE . COM REPORTS DISCOLORED WATER IN BARNESVILLE

 We wish to inform the residents of Barnesville, Georgia, about a recent issue concerning our drinking water reservoir. Due to changes in the Edie Creek watershed and heavy rain events, a lake turnover has occurred, resulting in elevated levels of manganese in the water supply.

The City of Barnesville and the Water Department are aware that some residents are experiencing discolored or brown water. This has occurred as a result of the excessive rainfall over the past several weeks, which has impacted our local reservoir system. In response, we promptly adjusted our water treatment processes to address this concern.
During heavy rain events, natural sediments and minerals—such as iron and manganese—can be washed into the reservoir from surrounding soils and stream banks. Additionally, storm runoff stirs up materials that have settled at the bottom of the reservoir. When these sediments and minerals move through the water treatment and distribution systems, they can cause tap water to appear brown, yellow, or tea-colored.

This discoloration is aesthetic only and does not pose a health risk. Extensive testing confirms that the water remains safe to drink, bathe in, and use for all household purposes. The discoloration typically resolves as the system naturally clears and water flow returns to normal.

Residents may notice:
A temporary brown or yellow tint in tap water.
Staining on laundry or plumbing fixtures if discolored water is used.
Improvement after running cold water from a faucet for several minutes may occur.

We understand this situation is inconvenient and unsettling. Our team is actively monitoring the system and will continue to make any necessary adjustments to restore normal water clarity as quickly as possible.

We are pleased to announce that the manganese levels have been successfully oxidized, and the water quality now meets and exceeds the standards established by the Georgia Environmental Protection Division (Ga EPD). Water plant staff have been working around the clock to fix this issue. We appreciate the community’s patience and understanding during this period as we work diligently to ensure the safety and quality of our drinking water. We want to reassure everyone that the water is safe to drink. The elevated manganese levels were the cause of the discolored water.

If your water remains discolored after flushing, or if you have any concerns, please contact The City of Barnesville to put in a work order for flushing if applicable.

We appreciate your patience and cooperation as we manage the effects of recent weather conditions.

Thank you.

City of Barnesville

UPSON SHERIFF KILGORE ANNOUNCES ARRESTS

 NEWS RELEASE

 

On June 30, 2025 at 10:18 pm deputies responded to a call at 121 Robinson Street, Thomaston to an unresponsive person. Upson arrival, Denard Johnson,19, of the same address was located in a bedroom of the residence. Johnson was deceased. Conditions inside the residence were deplorable with so signs of adequate medical care, general care or sustenance for Johnson, who was a disabled person.

Johnson’s mother, Alisha Johnson, 37, and her boyfriend, Maurice Montgomery, 48, were arrested and charged with felony Neglect of a Disabled Person and are being held in the Upson County Jail.

Johnson’s body has been sent to the GBI Crime Lab for autopsy. Other charges could be possible pending determination of the cause of death by the crime lab.

Anyone with further information in this case is encouraged to contact Sgt. David Walker at 706-646- 7906

 

Dan Kilgore, Sheriff

July 1, 2025

 

GA. POWER FREEZE ON BASE RATES

 Georgia PSC approves plan to freeze Georgia Power base rates

through at least 2028

Storm costs, including Hurricane Helene, to be addressed in separate proceeding

 

ATLANTA – July 1, 2025 – The Georgia Public Service Commission (PSC) today approved a plan to keep Georgia Power base rates stable and predictable through at least the end of 2028, with storm costs to be addressed in a separate proceeding. Base rates reflect what customers pay for electricity under the rate they choose, exclusive of fuel costs. The approval follows a stipulated agreement reached between Georgia Power and Georgia PSC Public Interest Advocacy Staff in May, which recommended an extension of the existing alternate rate plan previously approved by the Georgia PSC in 2022.

 

Georgia continues to experience extraordinary growth and increased demand for electricity, driven by a strong economy and robust economic development activities which are bringing new jobs and tax revenue to communities across the state. In recent years, Georgia Power has worked with state and local elected officials including the Georgia PSC and the state legislature, business and community leaders, and a variety of stakeholders representing the diverse interests of Georgians, to develop and execute plans that help ensure that the state can meet future energy demand, make investments needed for reliability and resiliency of the power grid, and keep energy costs affordable for customers.

 

This ongoing effort has included multiple important regulatory initiatives such as the 2023 IRP Update and recently revised and PSC-approved rules and regulations which provide Georgia Power with the tools and flexibility necessary to address risks and costs associated with “large load” users, helping ensure a fair and balanced approach for all of the company’s 2.8 million customers.

 

“At Georgia Power, we appreciate that our customers depend on us to deliver reliable and affordable energy every day to power their homes and businesses – that is our focus every day, with every decision we make,” said Kim Greene, chairman, president and CEO of Georgia Power. “The rate freeze resulting from this plan is a great result for customers, balancing the mutual benefits of extraordinary economic growth among all stakeholders and helping to ensure that we remain equipped to continue supporting growth in this state. A plan like this is only possible due to the strength of Georgia’s constructive regulatory environment, and we thank the Georgia Public Service Commission for their vote today.”

 

The company plans to seek recovery through base electric rates of reasonable and prudent costs related to Hurricane Helene restoration and rebuilding, as well as costs to respond to other storms through the end of 2025. That separate Georgia PSC regulatory proceeding is expected in the first half of 2026.

 

To learn more about how Georgia Power continues to deliver clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, as well as tips and information to help lower energy use and costs at your home or business, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com.

 

About Georgia Power

Georgia Power is the largest electric subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO), America’s premier energy company. Value, Reliability, Customer Service and Stewardship are the cornerstones of the company’s promise to 2.8 million customers in all but four of Georgia’s 159 counties. Committed to delivering clean, safe, reliable and affordable energy, Georgia Power maintains a diverse, innovative generation mix that includes nuclear, coal and natural gas, as well as renewables such as solar, hydroelectric and wind. Georgia Power focuses on delivering world-class service to its customers every day and the company is recognized by J.D. Power as an industry leader in customer satisfaction. For more information, visit www.GeorgiaPower.com and connect with the company on Facebook (Facebook.com/GeorgiaPower), X (X.com/GeorgiaPower) and Instagram (Instagram.com/ga_power).

 

###